Reducing Your Families Carbon Foot Print

Posted by Guest on Feb 2, 2012 in Energy Conservation, Featured | 0 comments

Excess carbon dioxide in the atmosphere is blamed for the elevation of global warming, increase in the amount of greenhouse gases and worsening climate change. Several remedies have been made to reduce people’s carbon footprint all around the world but many still can’t afford new hybrid cars and solar panels. There is no need to worry about contributing to the accumulation of carbon dioxide because there are many simple and constructive ways to lessen your family’s carbon foot print sans the skyrocketing prices.

1. Purchase local and organic products - There is a great chance that the food was cultivated in an eco-friendly manner and they don’t need to be transported too far.
2. Veer away from bottled water - You may not know it but bottled water has a huge carbon footprint. Buy reusable water bottles for carrying your water instead.
3. Inspect the packages very carefully - When shopping, pay attention to the labels and packaging of products that you buy. Opt for the ones that use minimal packages. You may also take reusable bags every time you shop.
4. Ensure that your home is energy proof -This means that your house should be properly insulated and the windows are closed well to prevent your heating or cooling system from working too hard, a practice that can also keep your energy bill down. Also, use compact florescent bulbs in place of incandescent bulbs.
5. Use native plants for your landscaping project- Since these will not be transported that far, you can help conserve fuel and energy. In addition, these local plants can grow well in a familiar environment.
6. Try window shopping - If the shopaholic in you has been bothering you for quite some time now, why not window shop first before hitting the actual stores and stalls? This helps you ensure that you buy the things that you need and this also keeps you away from the temptation of impulse buying.
7. Unplug your appliances when not in use - Most electronics on a standby mode still consume energy even when you are not using them. Unplug them and you can dramatically lower your electric bill.
8. Stick to your car - Do not get easily enticed to buy hybrid cars because it may cost you a fortune. If your old car is still in good condition, keep it. You may also try some eco-friendly mode of transport such as walking, bicycling and many others.
9. Make sure to practice the Three R’s - Reduce, Reuse and Recycle. By doing these, you are already doing your part to conserve the planet.