Climate change is here. It’s real, it’s urgent, and it’s the defining challenge of our time. There are many ways to tackle it, but one of the most effective is to live a low-carbon lifestyle. But wait, what is low-carbon living? Put simply, it’s any lifestyle that reduces your output of greenhouse gases, the heat-trapping ones responsible for global warming.
This guide explains low-carbon living and offers practical ways to make it part of your life. Think of it as a lifestyle that’s conscious of the impact every switch you flick, every meal you prepare, and every mile you travel has on the planet. That’s low-carbon living.
Sustainability Starts at Home
Homes are often big secret energy consumers. Here are some tips to make your home more sustainable:
- Power of Efficiency: Buy energy-efficient home appliances. Ensure all new home appliances carry the Energy Star rating. And don’t forget the smaller appliances in your home, such as LED light bulbs, which can also have a big impact on energy use.
- Don’t Dump Electricity : Did you know that many electronics suck energy even when switched off? To fight this “phantom load”, use power strips with an on/off switch. Just flick the switch when not using electronics to avoid standby power.
- Let Sunlight and Fresh Air In: Instead of artificial lights and air conditioning, use sunlight and fresh air in your home. Close the curtains during the day to allow natural light to enter and avoid using lights. Also, try natural ventilation by opening the windows instead of using the AC.
Green Up the Streets
Transportation sector accounts for a large chunk of the greenhouse gas emissions. Here are some tips to help you reduce your carbon footprint on the streets:
- Alternative Mode of Transport: Walking, biking or using public transit for small trips or commutes? They’re great alternatives that also help you keep fit.
- Carpool, or buy Fuel-Efficient Vehicles: For longer trips, share a ride with coworkers or friends. If you must use a car, choose fuel-efficient vehicles and drive as lightly as possible, e.g. by keeping a moderate speed and avoiding quick starts, braking, and acceleration.
Be a Responsible Consumer
Everything we consume has an impact on the environment. Make wise decisions to create a waste-free, sustainable future for all:
- Avoid Thoughtless Buying: Just because you can buy it, doesn’t mean you should. Before you consume, ask yourself “Do I really need it?” and think about how it will endure the test of time. Could you borrow it from a friend? Rent it? Buy it second hand?
- Buy Local and Seasonal: Buying local seasonal food means that it has a lower transportation footprint (and often tastes better). Support your local economy by checking out your nearest farmer’s market. You’ll be surprised at the delicious, bright, fresh food that’s available.
- Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: This 3 R’s are the cornerstone of a sustainable lifestyle. Refrain from using plastic bags, carry a reusable bag for your groceries and reconsider before you discard – there are plenty of creative ways to upcycle and repurpose old items. Lastly, remember to separate your waste at home – it makes recycling worthwhile.
Save Water: Every Liter Counts
Every drop of water counts and every effort to save water helps. Here are some easy ways to save water in your everyday life:
- Turn off the Tap: A dripping tap can waste more than hundreds of liters of water per year. Keep an eye out and fix any drip problems.
- Take a Short Shower: Reduce your shower time and consider using a low-flow shower head. This will all add up to less water used.
- Reuse Rainwater: Use rainwater barrels to collect rain and flood your garden. You’ll be saving water and reducing your need for municipal water supplies.
Eat Green and Your Waistline Will Too
Factory farming is responsible for 51% of greenhouse gas emissions. Here are some easy ways to eat in a way that benefits you and the planet:
- Try Being Vegetarian or Flexitarian: Consider eating fewer meats and try to incorporate vegetables in every meal. You don’t need to eliminate meat completely but you can reduce the amount and variety you consume and get acquainted with the cookbook for vegetarian and vegan cuisine. Meatless Mondays is a famous campaign that you can join in on!
- Reduce Food Waste: Eat at home. Make a menu plan and a list, and stick to it. If you have leftovers, get creative and make something new with them.
- Get Composting: Those food scraps and yard debris can be turned into rich plant nourishment, instead of wasting energy to send them to the landfill. Invest in a compost bin for your backyard or even your balcony.
Beyond the Basics: Expanding Your Low-Carbon Footprint
The suggestions above are our “no-brainer” ways to take action, but there are always more ways to get involved:
- Choose Sustainable Businesses: There are many wonderful, sustainable businesses out there. You can choose to support them by seeking out certifications like Fair Trade or Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) organic.