6 Small Ways You Can Reduce Your Carbon Footprint Every Day
If you are interested in living a more sustainable way of life, and you want to do so by implementing some changes around the house, there are a few ways you can reduce your carbon footprint every day with a bit of extra effort. Reducing your carbon footprint will not only help you feel better about your daily decisions, but it will allow you to do so while reducing significant energy and water waste. Whether you are currently in the process of cultivating relationships with others who are conscious of their carbon footprint or if you simply want to do your part, there are many ways you can reduce your carbon footprint in the home every day.
1. Use Public Transportation
One of the best ways to go about reducing your carbon footprint is to use public transportation if it is accessible and available to you. If you are living in a larger metropolitan area with public transportation, eliminating a personal vehicle will save money and gas while reducing your carbon footprint by eliminating unnecessary emissions. If you want to learn more about the public transportation routes in your city, you can do so by referencing the official city website where you reside and by checking online communities near you with the use of social media.
2. Invest in an Efficient Vehicle
Another way to reduce your carbon footprint if you do not currently have access to public transportation is to invest in an electric vehicle or an efficient alternative vehicle. Investing in alternative vehicles helps save on gas while significantly reducing carbon emissions anytime you are behind the wheel. While many hybrid, all-electric, and luxury sedans are beginning to gain traction in the auto market, It’s important to note that traditional V6 and V8 engines remain the most popular.
3. Take Advantage of Natural Lighting and Shading
Currently, in the United States, California holds the record for the longest-living trees, according to the American Society of Consulting Arborists. If your home is located in an area that is surrounded by trees, you can take advantage of natural lighting and shading whenever possible. Taking advantage of natural lighting and shading will reduce the need for your HVAC system, allowing you to cut down on how frequently you use it, even during the hottest months of the year.
4. Install a Programmable or Smart Thermostat in Your Home
According to Webinar Care, approximately 33 million homes in the United States currently have a smart thermostat installed. Installing a programmable or smart thermostat in the home is one of the quickest and most affordable ways to reduce your carbon footprint. Not only will it be much easier to manage the temperature in your home year-round without wasting energy, but it will also add value and appeal to your property if you choose to sell it in the future.
5. Recycle Items at Home
Always take the time to recycle items in and around the home, especially if you are attempting to lead a more sustainable way of life. Invest in a recycling bin or inquire about the recycling methods used in your local city or district, depending on where you are currently located.
6. Use Composting
Using a composting bin is always recommended for those interested in reducing their carbon footprints. A composting bin will minimize the amount of trash you are throwing away while allowing you to put it to use. Composting bins are ideal if you are interested in creating your fertilizer for your yard or backyard garden.
Incorporating a few changes into your daily life is a great way to reduce your daily carbon footprint, whether you live in a rural area or a large metropolitan city. From investing in a smart thermostat to using public transportation, there are many different ways to go about making a difference in the environment today from just about anywhere in the world.
