Easy Ways to Lessen Your Carbon Footprint

Every week, and sometimes even every day, we hear something on the news about how we have to turn the tide of climate change or suffer dire consequences in as little as 20 or 30 years. Although some people may shrug off that notion, feeling that it’s up to big business and governments to do their parts, in reality, the movement starts with individuals and households.

You can start doing things now on your own to lessen your carbon footprint and help slow climate change. Many changes are actually very simple. Start with one or two and work your way up to more. Here are some easy ways to lessen your carbon footprint.

Eliminate or Significantly Reduce Meat Consumption

This is probably the single most effective way to help reduce your carbon footprint. Greenhouse gas emissions from traditional agribusiness production are an even bigger problem than fossil fuels. If you don’t want to cut out meat entirely, look for meat that is produced through sustainable farming practices, which is the method that was used prior to the introduction of commercial fertilizers. Sustainable meat also is healthier and has more nutrients. Red meat is the biggest culprit. Try including more poultry and fish if you are worried about getting enough protein.

Buy Organic and Local

By now, most people know that organic growing practices are healthier for the environment as they forego the use of commercial fertilizers and utilize natural nutrients such as compost to enrich the soil. Buying locally grown food is also important as it reduces emissions from vehicles that transport the items to your store. Tailor your meals to the season. Stock up on root vegetables such as carrots and onions in the fall and keep them in a root cellar or similar container.

Grow Your Own Food

Even if you live in a condo or an apartment and have balcony or patio space, you can do your part by planting greens in a container. You can also choose to rent space at a community garden to grow your own crops if you don’t have the room on your property. Whatever you choose, make sure you use organic methods to help them grow. Planting vegetables and fruits will also help give off oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide. If you live in an urban area, your plantings will also help to mitigate the effects of the urban heat island in the summer, which significantly contributes to global warming.

Modify Your Electrical Usage

You’ve probably already swapped out inefficient incandescent light bulbs for compact fluorescent bulbs or even more efficient LED bulbs. However, you can do even more. Unplug devices that are not in use, including toasters, coffee pots, computers and more. The phantom electrical current going through the cords adds up. Consider adding solar power to your home. Even if you are unable to do that, look closely at your energy bill. Some utilities are now offering to supply your home with electricity produced by renewable sources such as wind, in addition to solar power.