You may be just one small household, but you can still make a big difference in the world. The biggest threat to the planet these days are greenhouse gas emissions. Many companies are implementing sustainable practices to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but we need to do a lot more, and we need to do it fast! Here’s what you can do as a household to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Alternative Energy
Fossil fuels such as coal, gasoline, and natural gas are causing the temperatures to rise by increasing the level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere. This will lead to heat waves, hurricanes, wildfires, floods, rains, drought, and the spread of disease, to name a few horrifying consequences. It’s imperative for the future of the planet that we move towards alternative energy to fuel our production and our lives. If we’re to reverse the devastating effects of global warming, we all need to put in a massive effort to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions, and we need to do it fast! You may not think that your home has a significant impact, but if every household would take steps to reduce their carbon footprint, then we may be able to save our planet and our future.
Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions in the Home
If you are reusing, reducing, recycling, and refusing, then you’re already ahead of the game. The more you reuse, the more your waste is reduced. The more recycling you do, the less CO2 you produce from sourcing and manufacturing new materials.
Maintaining Steady Indoor Temperatures
The less you can use your heaters and your AC units, the better. Keep your indoor climate comfortable by opening and closing windows. Proper insulation will also help you keep the heat in and the cold out, reducing your carbon emissions from heating and cooling devices. By maintaining a steady indoor temperature at all times, you are also taking some pressure off of your HVAC units and further reducing energy.
Energy Efficient Products
Use energy efficient products wherever possible. Lightbulbs are the obvious choice. Switch your lighting and reduce your energy bills, extend the life of your lightbulbs, and reduce your greenhouse gas emissions. Besides the lights, look for appliances and other electronics that are energy efficient and environmentally friendly.
Bikes and Public Transportation
Reduce your driving as much as possible. If you have to drive, then look for a carpool option or offer rides to people who are going in your direction. Better yet, get a bike, it’s good for you and the planet. Plus, you never get stuck in traffic if you’re riding a bike. Public transportation is another great option for reducing your household carbon footprint.
Sunrise Sanitation provides waste management and recycling services to West Virginia and Maryland residents and businesses.
