The vulnerable consequences of climate degradation are evident in current research which showed that from 2030 to 2050, the additional deaths per year will be 250000 due to malaria, diarrhea, undernutrition, and heat stress alone, which will undoubtedly be the aftermath of climate change. To save our future, we all need to understand that it is now or never. Immediate action is mandatory in order to lessen the upcoming destruction. In that case, the most required step for now is to reduce our carbon footprints. What does carbon footprint actually mean?
Carbon footprint refers to the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions into the atmosphere. Not only CO2 but also other gases including methane, nitrous oxide, and chlorofluorocarbons contribute to carbon footprint. A carbon footprint basically results from every activity we execute that radiates the mentioned gases. The government and other organizations alone can’t handle the situation. It is high time each of us took our own initiatives to ameliorate the situation. We can undoubtedly play our significant roles to make a difference with small and consistent actions in our daily lives. Here are 10 tips we can follow to reduce carbon footprints and uphold a sustainable lifestyle:
Minimize waste
The very first step you can take to reduce your carbon footprint is minimizing waste. Instead of using one-time-use plastics and products, choose reusable bags, containers, and water bottles that are reusable. In this way, you can lower plastic waste. Get yourself used to recycling materials like paper, glass, and metals. Many secondhand items seem like new, so you can try buying them.
Consider utilizing public transport
Vehicles are one of the major sources of carbon footprint. So we must be careful in terms of using transport. Consider walking if you are not going very far. You can also take cycling into consideration. Walking and cycling are both beneficial for our health as well.
Switch to energy-saving utensils
To reduce the damage that occurs from our home’s energy consumption we can switch to appliances that consume less electricity. If you lack knowledge on how to choose stuff, you can check if the product has any ENERGY STAR label or similar certifications. Also, we should unplug electronics when not in use. Switching to renewable energy sources is also an effective step.
Go with Sustainable Fashion
The fashion industry is another significant contributor to carbon emissions. So, try to look for those bands that use eco-friendly materials. Do not hesitate to wear or use the same stuff several times.
Refrain from wasting water
Water conservation is essential for reducing energy use. It requires a lot of energy when we heat or boil water, so wasting water is equivalent to wasting energy. Some simple habits like turning off the tap while brushing teeth and not wasting water in the shower are really appreciable.
Purchase sustainable products
Many products we use are not sustainable at all. Start using products that are made from sustainable materials. Try to buy locally grown and organic produce at the time of grocery shopping. It will help you to reduce your carbon footprint by avoiding heavily processed food..
Eat more plant-based foods
Most food industries contribute to greenhouse gas emissions to a great level, including meat production industries. Hence, we can leverage plant-based meals into our diet by consuming locally grown and seasonal vegetables, fruits, and grains.
Plant trees as much as possible
The importance of trees is something we learn from our childhood. The way trees absorb carbon dioxide and provide clean air for us encourages us to support green spaces. It doesn’t matter whether it’s through urban gardening, tree planting initiatives, or caring for our outdoor space. The way trees are getting cut, will be threatening to our lives.
Try to use eco-friendly cleaning products
Most of the cleaning products we use in our household contain harmful particles that increase our carbon footprint. Try to utilize eco-friendly cleaning supplies. Such utensils are made from many natural ingredients.
Advocate for green spaces
Advocating and creating awareness about the importance of reducing carbon footprints is a really effective move as there are many people around us who are not aware of the life-threatening consequences of the current situation. So, keep on advocating for green spaces.
It’s you and I who need to come forward with a view to reduce carbon footprints. Try to incorporate these ten habits into your daily life to play your role in creating a sustainable world.
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Writer
Kazi Mirana Mainuddin
Intern,
Content Writing Department
YSSE.