Do you know the average person’s carbon footprint in the U.S.? The answer is 16 tons annually. That’s a lot considering the average tally worldwide is closer to 4 tons.
Learning to lessen your carbon footprint is essential to be a more responsible steward of the environment. Here’s a look at five things to do to achieve this objective.
1. Insulate Your Residence
Depending on where in the country you live, the winters can potentially get downright nasty. There’s nothing you can do about rising heating fuel costs. That’s out of your control. But you can control the insulation in your home. Insulating areas like your walls and attic will keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. So, investing in insulation will give you a return on investment when you slash your heating bills in the winter. You’ll get a corresponding benefit when the warmer weather rolls around.
2. Purchase Energy Efficient Brands
You can also reduce your carbon footprint by being more mindful as a consumer. Are your home appliances nearing the end of their lifecycles? If you need to replace a fridge, dishwasher, washer, dryer, or some other appliance, find replacements with the Energy Star rating. You want to get new appliances that are proven to sip, rather than drink, electricity. You might be surprised to see how inefficient old appliances are compared to newer appliances. Another thing you can do is get energy-saving light bulbs for your home. You’ll save a bundle by doing so over time.
3. Reduce Water Use
Another way you can reduce your carbon footprint is by cutting down on how much water you use. Did you know that Americans use an average of 82 gallons of water daily at home? However, you can slash that number by up to 20% by simply installing water-efficient fixtures and appliances. You can be a better environmental steward and reduce your carbon footprint by reducing water use. There are simple things you do to reduce water use. When brushing your teeth, turn off the tap rather than letting it run throughout. You can also shorten the length of your showers. Simple things like these can make a significant difference over time.
4. Drive Less
If you’re serious about reducing your carbon footprint, you must remember modes of travel. Did you know that selecting a bike over a motor vehicle for merely a day can lessen the average person’s transport-related carbon emissions by 67%? Do you live close enough to work where biking or walking is a realistic option? Going that route will be better for the environment, your wallet, and your health. A more drastic move might be to move closer to where you work or work from home, which can significantly cut down on having to commute to and from work.
Going from driving to work every day to biking to work every day may take some getting used to. In fact, you might feel exhausted for a while as you get used to the physicality of it. One option to treat yourself as you transition to a more environmentally friendly practice is to book an IV hydration therapy treatment. You can get a medical professional to come to your home and safely administer a mix of nutrients, vitamins, and other things intravenously. You can get the energy boost you need, lower stress, and feel much better physically, mentally, and emotionally.
5. Switch Off the Lights
Do you tend to leave lights on day and night — even in unoccupied rooms? If so, you’re wasting energy. Get in the habit of turning off lights when they’re not needed. While you’re at it, upgrade to LED bulbs. They are more energy-efficient than traditional incandescent bulbs.
If you are serious about reducing your carbon footprint, these five recommendations will help. You’ll find there are lots of things you can easily incorporate into your lifestyle. And, yes, many of the recommended changes are easy to implement.
After all, how hard is it to upgrade your light bulbs or to take shorter showers? The small changes are well worth it considering the benefits you can get. They can have a significant impact and help you lower your carbon footprint.
Article Submitted By Community Writer