Living

How to Cut Your Personal Carbon Footprint

Have you ever thought about the kind of impact you’re leaving on the environment? Reducing your carbon footprint doesn’t mean turning your entire life around. But by making a few changes, you can ultimately make a positive change and pave the way for a more sustainable planet.

Drive Less

Your standard vehicle relies on fossil fuels to get from point A to B. When the emissions from the exhaust pipe are released into the air, they harm the planet by driving up global warming. But how can you drive less in an automobile dominated world? Walk to those destinations nearest to you. If you can’t walk, try to carpool, or take the bus instead. But, if you really want to commit, purchase a hybrid or electric car.

However, electric cars come with some downsides, so the technology may not be ready for how you expect a car to perform. If you find there are more cons than pros, don’t be alarmed. Use one of the previous alternatives instead.

Reduce Home Energy Usage

Cutting down your carbon footprint while driving on the road is crucial but analyze how you use energy at home too. By reducing your energy usage, you’ll not only save money on your electricity bill, but you’ll also be doing the planet a huge favor. Make sure your home is properly insulated to save on heating. Also, unplug electronics and appliances when they’re not in use. Get into the habit of turning off any light switches when leaving a room. Lastly, switch over to energy-efficient bulbs for a completely green home makeover.

Be Conscious of the Waste You Produce

One of the best ways to reduce your personal carbon footprint is to cut down on the amount of waste you produce. A lot of the products and goods we purchase, from our packaged food to cell phones, require a significant amount of land and water to create. Not to mention that most of our household products contain plastic, which, due to its inability to decompose, is terrible for the planet. Decide to use less, or purchase second-hand clothes and electronics. You can also bring your own reusable bags to the supermarket.

There are many ways to cut down your carbon footprint. When you drive less, reduce your home energy usage, and cut down on waste, you can live a more sustainable lifestyle and create a positive change on Earth.

Related: 3 Ways Farming Has Become More Eco-Friendly