In the wake of Earth Day, I think it's important that we look at the impact that we each have on the environment. Likewise, it is important to understand how to reduce our impact as much as we can. Here are a few simple ways to cut down on you carbon emissions.
Take a walk
Driving a vehicle, car, motorcycle, or what-have-you, is one of the leading causes of Carbon Dioxide emissions. Taking a walk to get to the store or even carpooling with other friends is an easy was to reduce these emissions by spreading hem out over a number of people, and even better yet if you cut the emissions out completely.
Avoid road rage
Excessive breaking and accelerating by aggressive drivers can result in 40% more fuel consumption. Turn on the cruise control and take a chill pill, you'll make it to your destination.
Turn out the lights
When you leave your dorm or you home make sure to turn out all the lights. Leaving lights on when they are not being used is a waste of energy that can be easily reduced. Also, switching out you incandescent lightbulbs for compact fluorescent and or LED bulbs is also a great way to cut down on cost and energy, as they last much longer than incandescent bulbs.
Cut down on beef and dairy consumption
Raising beef is one of the most inefficient ways to produce meat. Raising other sources of meat such as poultry and turkey are much more efficient, i.e. it takes much less water and grain to raise a pound of chicken than it does a pound of beef. Deforestation due to clearing land for livestock is also a large cause of CO2 emissions, which can be reduced if less people decide to eat beef.
Cut down on your shower time
Reducing the time you spend in the shower reduces the amount of energy needed to pump and heat the water used in your shower. Purchasing a more eco-friendly shower head is another great way to cut down on the amount of water used for your daily shower.
Wash your laundry with cold water
Using cold water instead of warm water to do your laundry can save up to 500 pounds of CO2 per year.
Bring your own bag
Bringing your own reusable bags is a great way to cut back on emissions by lessening your use of plastic bags. Also, opt for products with less excess packaging.
Buy foodstuff in bulk
Buying in bulk is often much cheaper and requires much less packaging than individual items. Plus, this will give you an excuse to go to Costco... and who doesn't love Costco?
