Climate change is an issue that often seems far away. We always hear about melting ice caps and rising sea levels, but few people realize that it is a pressing issue around the entire world. The winter of 2015-2016 tied as the hottest year on record for Connecticut, with an average temperature of 35.2 degrees Fahrenheit – and the three warmest winters in the state’s history have all occurred within the last 15 years. These changes show that climate change is a real threat and it is becoming stronger every day. However, that doesn’t mean that it’s too late to do your part to help slow the gradual warming of the earth. Here are several tips for fighting climate change on an individual level.
– Replace your light bulbs: Compact fluorescent (CFL) bulbs use 60 percent less energy than regular incandescent bulbs, and as a result can save up to 300 pounds of carbon dioxide per year. Carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere helps contribute to global warming.
– Change your thermostat: Try raising your thermostat just two degrees in the summer and lowering it two degrees in the winter. This can save 2,000 pounds of carbon dioxide per year; alternatively, you can install a programmable thermostat to automatically raise and lower temperatures for you.
– Use energy-efficient appliances: Refrigerators, washers, dryers, and other appliances that have Energy Star labels are the best choice for your home.
– Turn off and unplug your appliances: A TV set uses 40 percent of its energy in standby mode, which means that by turning it off completely, you can save energy in the long run.
– Use renewable energy: Install solar panels on your home, which can ultimately prove to be a worthwhile long-term investment (as well as a sustainable energy source) because of the decrease in energy costs over time.
– Watch what you eat: Consuming food grown locally doesn’t just support local farmers; it also saves tons of carbon dioxide every year that is used in transporting food from around the country.
– Reduce, reuse, recycle: Garbage in landfills releases methane, which means that you should try to reduce your waste as much as possible. Compost food scraps, and recycle glass, paper and metal.
– Green your commute: Walk, bike or take public transit to work instead of driving, which releases greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide as well as other harmful exhaust such as sulfur dioxide and carbon monoxide.
It may not seem like we are able to make much of a difference on a solo basis, but with everyone doing their part, our beautiful planet earth can once again blossom for future generations. For more articles like this one, day-to-day living tips, insurance information and a whole lot more, check us out on Facebook!