A damning new report from the UN has sparked fear about climate change and many households might be looking at ways they can help reduce their carbon footprint.
Raging wildfires, sweltering summer temperatures and freezing winters are just some of the major signs of the damage humans are doing to the planet and if we don’t change our ways, the world could become a very inhospitable place.
Recycling, reducing waste and changing your transport habits are some of the obvious ways to cut down the impact you’re having but we’ve put together this handy guide to help you do a bit more.
Recycle
The easiest way to make a difference is by making sure you are not overusing things in your own home.
Recycling and composting are easy and effective ways to cut your carbon footprint and most people already do it to some extent.
So take the extra few minutes to properly separate your rubbish because it really does help.
Gardening
Whether you have a luscious garden or a single window sill, plants can be a great way to offset carbon usage.
Not only will these plants take carbon from the atmosphere, but they will also help bees and other pollen collectors to thrive.
Bonus points if you plant your own fruit, veg or herbs which will also save you a few euro at the shop.
Regulating heating
Every house has an energy rating and if your home is older, this may not be a particularly good one.
Upgrading old heating systems can save you money in the long run and it also significantly cuts your environmental impact.
Replacements can include all kinds of solutions from heat recovery and underfloor heating to solar panels.
Some of these can be pricey, but there are government grants out there that can help offset the cost, and it would be worth it as a long-term investment.
Public transport
While hopping in the car is the easiest way to travel, you can cut down on emissions by taking public transport, walking or even cycling when you can.
If you’re going to the local park or somewhere else in your area, why not stretch the legs instead of driving?
Smart appliances
We’re all well used to Alexa now but it’s very easy to upgrade your home further.
Energy-saving bulbs, timed switches and temperature control are just a few of the easy to use upgrades that you can get for your home that can help cut your carbon footprint down.
Cut down on your meat intake
Livestock is responsible for around 15% of world carbon emissions and according to researchers at the University of Oxford, adopting a vegan diet is one of the best ways to reduce your impact on the environment.
Swapping red meat out for poultry or lessening the use of dairy products in your diet contributes to the fight.
This could just be one meat-free day a week. very little helps.
Avoid fast fashion
A deep investigation by the World Resources Institute discovered that on average, 20 items of clothing are manufactured per person per year.
A good chunk of these are produced unsustainably.
Vintage/charity shops should be swapped in for certain brands and many people have adopted the mantra that if they buy an item of clothing, they must also recycle or donate one.
