In this post, we’ll examine what a carbon footprint is and how to reduce it.

WHAT IS A CARBON FOOTPRINT?

A carbon footprint is a contribution each individual makes to the carbon dioxide emissions that happen through production and utilization. 

CO2 emissions are unavoidable in this day and age. We live in a society that is dependent on commodities, that puts comfort over all else and has built itself through technology. Ever since the beginning of industrialization, humans have had a huge impact on the planet. Throughout the years, the results of our own consumption have been felt through the way the climate is changing.  Still, it is not too late to start taking care of our planet. Each additional person who cares about the environment can make a difference. 

HOW DO I CALCULATE MY CARBON FOOTPRINT?

Calculating your own footprint is a great first step in seeing where you stand and how big your contribution really is. Even more, it allows you to come face to face with how much waste you cause. You will also learn about how much unnecessary spending you could avoid. After calculating your impact on carbon emissions,  you need to realize why it is important to reduce your footprint. One main reason is to reduce the negative impact on Mother Nature.  Additionally, living carbon-friendly can also reduce your living costs.

WAYS TO REDUCE CARBON EMISSIONS

The common pieces of advice for reducing carbon emissions are all ones we’ve heard before. Things like drive less, eat more organic produce, cut down your travel, and so on. Although those are still very useful tips and should be encouraged, it’s important to remember that there are more things that contribute to the increase in emissions. Here are some more uncommon ways in which you could be more mindful of your own environmental impact.

AVOID FAST FASHION

A simple definition of fast fashion is items that are produced at a rapid pace. Then put on sale by brands or chains whenever a new fashion trend is set. The problem with it is that it encourages textile waste and impulse buying. The system that produces fast fashion owns factories that are hazardous to the environment.  The social impact of fast fashion is also big since workers are typically women, and children, who earn an extremely low wage.

The big picture pollution problem lies with the corporations that pollute waters due to textile dump sites.  Yet every person can play a role in stopping the rapid effects of other fast fashion emissions. The first important step to do in avoiding fast fashion is doing your research.  Find out which brands you wear are producers of fast fashion and which are more eco-friendly. Other helpful steps include looking into more sustainable clothing that encourages slow fashion, trying out vintage or thrift shopping, or donate old clothes instead of throwing them out. 

BE MORE AWARE OF YOUR WATER, ENERGY, AND PAPER USAGE

It is known that our most impactful form of waste is in the things we use in our own homes. The resources that people rely on every day, such as water, energy, or paper, can be very damaging if they are not used in moderation. If you are truly interested in playing a part in saving the planet, then you can become more economical with your resources in various ways.

When it comes to your water usage there are a lot of small changes that people can make. For starters instead of just bathing less to save water, you can replace baths with short showers. In this way, you can help prevent any possible waste without sacrificing your hygiene. Additionally, you can wash all of your dishes in a large bowl instead of in the sink (or plug the sink when washing up), and check your pipes for any possible water leaks. 

For your energy consumption, some helpful tips would be to switch regular lights to eco light bulbs. If you have neon lights switch them to LEDs. Another easy thing to do is to turn off electronics when you are not using them or when you are out of the house.  Finally, donate your damaged electronics to service shops instead of throwing them out.

For the use of paper, it is simpler, as the only thing you can do is be more mindful of how many notebooks or pads you buy. Sometimes people buy new paper and throw away other paper that is not fully written on. It’s important to remember to use empty notebook space before switching to a new one. 

RECYCLE PROPERLY

Recycling is one of the most convenient and efficient ways you can help the environment from home. And although most people nowadays have begun recycling in an effort to help, there is a certain and correct way to do it which most people are unaware of. Firstly, it is best if you separate your waste by category (plastic, paper, cardboard, etc.) in different bags or bins. This ensures that the items are processed more easily and therefore used later on for the fabrication of new products. Secondly, your recyclables need to be clean before discarding them, as to not contaminate the rest of the items and therefore the entire bag.

For more helpful and specific tips, you can check your local recycling guide.

INVEST IN REUSABLE ITEMS

There are many benefits to reusable items, especially quality ones.  Not only do they save the environment, but they save you money as well.  Reusable items cut down on plastic usage in your home by replacing them with more sustainable options. Some of the best reusable things you can get for yourself are metal or glass straws instead of plastic ones, tote bags instead of plastic bags for your everyday shopping needs, and fabric handkerchiefs instead of paper towels.

Another thing worth investing in is mason jars. Mason jars have a vast number of environmentally friendly benefits. They are easy to clean, very portable, and can be reused almost indefinitely without deteriorating.

TAKE ACTION AGAINST CLIMATE CHANGE

When it comes to saving the planet, it is important to understand that there are bigger things at play. Overall, it will be difficult to make a sustainable change unless everyone contributes in their own way. Each citizen needs to try to be as environmentally conscious as possible.

One of the best things you can do for the planet is to make sure you stay informed about climate change.  Furthermore, you can donate to climate change charities, and call out the need for action to combat climate issues whenever possible. And remember that in the end, it’s the small steps you take that matter.

HOW DO YOU PLAN TO REDUCE YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT?

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