We all know that climate change is real, but what can we do to combat it? Having a zero-carbon lifestyle is also a good solution. Here are some tips on how you can live a zero-carbon lifestyle.
What is a zero-carbon lifestyle?
A zero-carbon lifestyle is a way of living that reduces your impact on the environment. To live a zero-carbon life, you need to find out where energy and resources are being wasted in your household, then look for ways to reduce or eliminate this waste with an alternative approach.
Tips on how you can live a zero-carbon lifestyle
1 Switch to green power
It is the easiest way to reduce your carbon footprint. By switching energy suppliers, you can be sure that all of the electricity used in your home will come from renewable sources.
2 Make use of the sun
Solar panels are a great way to generate electricity. They’re becoming more efficient and cheaper each year, so now is the best time to invest if you want to benefit from low-cost green energy in the future. The SolarShare Co-operative in Ireland provides a great example of how you can save money while also reducing your environmental impact.
3 Wash clothes at 30°C
You can reduce your energy consumption by almost half if you wash your clothing at a lower temperature. This is because the hot water used in washing machines accounts for around 90% of their total usage, and it’s much more efficient to use cold water, even on very dirty items.
4 Use your car less
If you need to use the vehicle, try and walk or cycle instead when possible. Not only is this great for keeping fit, but it will reduce carbon emissions from cars on the road.
5 Be more aware of water usage
Water is under immense pressure, so using it wisely can help save our natural resources. Make sure you turn off the tap when brushing your teeth and only use as much water as necessary when washing dishes or cleaning clothes. They may seem like simple things to do, but they will all make a difference over time.
6 Try to avoid plastic
Plastic has become a huge problem because of the amount used and how difficult it can dispose of. Reduce your usage by using reusable bags for shopping, carrying around water bottles instead of buying drinks in disposable ones, and always bringing cutlery with you when eating out, so you don’t have to use any single-use straws or spoons.
7 Turn off lights when leaving a room
It is one of the simplest ways to reduce your energy consumption. It’s easy to forget about turning them off, but it can make a huge difference over time.
8 Don’t waste food
Food production is responsible for around 23% of greenhouse gas emissions, so avoid wasting it whenever possible. If you have leftovers, freeze them or give them to a friend who can use them rather than throwing them away.
9 Recycle
Reducing and reusing can be great ways to cut down on waste, but recycling is the only way to prevent valuable resources from being lost forever. The more we recycle, the less raw materials will need to be taken out of the ground – so even though it may seem like a chore at first, please try your best.
10 Invest in environmentally-friendly appliances
It is one of the most effective ways to reduce your carbon footprint. Energy-efficient products are available for almost every area of your home, including fridges and freezers, washing machines, dishwashers and even lightbulbs. They may cost slightly more upfront but will save you money on electricity bills over time.
Read More:
An unsettling look into beauty industry packaging waste
