However, in recent years, more and more attention is being put on how to protect the environment. Sometimes even small changes in your lifestyle can have a benign effect. If you are wondering how to reduce your carbon footprint on a regular basis, there is a number of simple solutions that you can put into practice to save the planet!
What is the carbon footprint?
A carbon footprint is defined as the amount of carbon dioxide emissions which are caused by a person, event, product, service, or company. It comprises two basic types of emissions, i.e., direct and indirect ones. Direct emissions, as their name suggest, are emissions from a source, e.g., they can be connected with heating the building or driving a car, while the latter are a consequence of some activities leading to the production of goods or the provision of services. As an individual, you mostly deal with direct emissions.
Why is a carbon footprint so negative?
The carbon footprint has a direct effect on our lives and the environment which surrounds us. One of its biggest consequences is greenhouse gas emission which leads to an increase in temperature, water shortages and unpredictable weather conditions. These, in turn, are dangerous for animals and plants. What is more, the sea level is rising continuously and the level of pollution in water and air is going up, which has a particularly negative impact on the food industry.
How can you personally reduce your carbon footprint?
If you want to ask yourself what your carbon footprint is, the answer is: probably bigger that you think. Heating your apartment, driving a car, international flights, eating meat, using poor quality heating equipment… all of this can significantly increase your carbon footprint. Fortunately, you can easily decrease your carbon dioxide emissions. Check out how to reduce your carbon footprint.
Renewable energy sources
The best way to reduce your carbon footprint is to introduce renewable energy sources in your home. Solar panels, heat recovery installations and heat pumps which are becoming more and more popular these days are not only eco-friendly but also will allow you to save much money in the longer perspective. Introducing renewable energy sources is more difficult if you live in an apartment, yet is it not impossible. You can, e.g., use a solar power bank instead of a classic one.
Modern cars
One of the biggest sources of carbon exhaust that we generate throughout the year is from driving. Fortunately, on today’s market we have access to many eco-friendly models which are much safer for the natural environment. Hybrid or electric cars are the best example. Although they are relatively expensive, their exploitation is much cheaper. Additionally, electric car owners are allowed to park for free or enter specific areas in many cities.
Alternative transportation methods
Driving a car is convenient, but it is not healthy, nor for you or the natural environment. This is why you should consider choosing other transportation methods when possible. Walking or riding a bike will help you get in shape, while riding an e-scooter is fast, effortless, and safe for our planet. If you want to learn more about possible choices, check out the collection of electric scooters for adults by Apollo Scooters.
Recycling
Another things that you can do on a regular basis to protect the natural environment is to recycle. Each household produces kilograms of waste each year, and a big part of it can be reused. This mostly concerns paper, plastic, and glass. Recycling is a great way to reduce energy use.
As you can see, there are many ways in which you can reduce your everyday carbon footprint. Be open to change and always remember that the condition of the surrounding environment affects the quality of your life.