Addressing climate change
TEN WAYS TO ADDRESS CLIMATE CHANGE
ACTION 1: Cut waste
Waste is a key contributor to global warming. Landfill sites represent squandered materials and significant financial waste. Collecting and processing waste produces CO2 emissions and also methane gas, which is released from landfill when biodegradable waste breaks down. Methane is over 20 times as powerful a greenhouse gas as CO2. By removing or segregating biodegradable waste from the landfill stream, we can reduce methane production and its impact on climate change. Paper, cardboard and most plastics can be recycled, waste food and vegetable matter can be composted.
ACTION 2: Turn it down
Turn the thermostat down by one notch. If the windows are opened, the heating is too high! Install programmable thermostats or time clocks. When purchasing new fittings or appliances, make sure they are energy efficient. Find out about energy saving appliances at www.energysavingtrust.org.uk
ACTION 3: Save on lighting
Good, suitable lighting is essential; however, it is also a potential source of major savings. Maximise natural light where possible. Switch off all lights when not in use. Fit energy saving light bulbs. These last up to 12 times longer than ordinary bulbs. Just one energy saving light bulb can save considerable money in its lifetime.
ACTION 4: Save water
If you are not filling your washing machine or dishwasher fully, use the half load or economy programme. When using your kettle, only boil as much water as you need. A dripping hot water tap wastes energy and in one week wastes enough hot water to fill half a bath. So fix leaking taps and make sure they are always fully turned off.
ACTION 5: Switch it off
Televisions, computers and other appliances left on standby pump one million tons of carbon into the atmosphere each year. The wasted energy could power 400,000 homes. Equipment and appliances left on standby mode continue to use power-SWITCH IT OFF!
ACTION 6: Leave it at home
Half of all car journeys are less than 2 miles, but most catalytic converters work only after 3 miles of travel. Try walking short distances or using public transport where possible. Additionally:
- Car share when possible
- Purchase the most energy efficient car you can afford
- Ensure tyres are properly inflated
- Don’t drive with unnecessary weight on board
- Get your car serviced regularly
ACTION 7: Use renewable energy
With sources of renewable energy increasingly available, cost-effective and efficient, consider purchasing green power from you energy supplier. Try sourcing alternative providers or installing some renewable technologies in your home. There are five main renewable sources - hydropower, solar, geothermal and biomass. One might be the right one for you and could help to save you money.
ACTION 8: Be a sustainable shopper
Every product we buy consumes energy when being made or transported. By being aware of these impacts and using a “sustainable” shopping approach we can significantly reduce our impact on climate change. For more information on ethical and fair-trade shopping visit ‘Sustainable Life’ at www.sustlife.com
ACTION 9: Get carbon savings advice
You don’t have to struggle on your own to combat climate change. There are experts out there who can do a review of your lifestyle and provide practical advice on how to reduce your impact and save money. The Energy Saving Trust is just one such organisation that provides a network of advice. They offer expert, impartial advice about saving energy in your home. Call 0800 512 012 to find your local advice centre
ACTION 10: Get involved and spread the word
As individuals we can make a difference but by working together we could really stop climate change. Spread the word about climate change and encourage friends and family to do their bit. Promote energy saving at work/school etc. You could also monitor your carbon footprint at http://footprint.wwf.org.uk. If you are saving energy, saving money and helping to save the planet, take credit for doing so and tell others so they can follow your example!
