10 Simple Ways To Lower Your Carbon Emissions

Net Zero Week is celebrated all over the UK from 1-7 July 2023. 

The week exists to promote the need for urgent action to restrict the emissions of harmful gasses into the atmosphere. More forensically, the week looks to assess the ongoing daily battle humanity faces to combat climate change. 

There is only so much we can do to help whilst fulfilling the duties of our everyday lives; the job, the kids, the house...Ultimately, whatever your situation, our lives get in the way. 

So in honour of Net Zero Week 2023, we have compiled a simple list of ten things we can do to lessen our emissions and strengthen humanity's fight against climate change. 

Let's get into it!

1. Assess your carbon footprint: Let's start with the ones we hear about constantly. Assessing or calculating your personal or household carbon footprint using online tools or carbon calculators is free and relatively hassle-free. You will need some numbers that accurately paint your carbon output. Once you input the numbers into the calculator, you should be given a rough idea of your output and how it compares to others. It's important to remember that whatever the calculator tells you, it's okay to be upset or angry. Don't be annoyed at yourself because you are already trying to do something positive to change it. 
2. Reduce energy consumption: Identifying ways to reduce your energy consumption, such as using energy-efficient appliances, turning off lights and electronics when not in use, and adjusting your thermostat settings, is vitally important. These are also cost-effective mechanisms to reduce energy consumption. 
3. Opt for renewable energy: If available in your area, you should switch to a renewable energy provider. However, this can be easier said than done as it can be a hefty investment financially. But, those who do switch will benefit from drastic long-term savings. Alternatively, you can invest in renewable energy options like solar panels. These are much more cost-efficient methods to lower emissions and save money on your energy bills.
4. Minimise transportation emissions: We are repeatedly told about utilising public transport to minimise emissions. However, we really should be looking to put this advice into reality. Alternative transportation methods such as biking, walking, or public transportation offer cheaper, greener modes of transport that greatly restrict emissions. In situations like the morning commute, carpooling is a great idea if you have multiple staff members in a local area. If your budget allows it, you can consider using electric vehicles.
5. Conserve water: This is one that not many people may know about. However, conserving water is a great way to limit output in general. At home, you can practice water conservation by fixing leaks, installing low-flow fixtures, and being mindful of water usage in daily activities like washing dishes or taking showers.
6. Waste reduction: Waste and Britain's inability to dispose of waste effectively has hugely affected our emissions. Reduce waste generation by recycling, composting organic waste, and avoiding single-use items like plastic bags and bottles. We all must understand our local authorities and how they collect our waste. We must question whether we are all doing it correctly. It is advised that we opt for reusable alternatives whenever possible.
7. Eat sustainably: Eating well helps your body whilst also benefitting the environment. Choosing a plant-based meal or reducing meat consumption helps restrict emissions, as livestock production significantly contributes to greenhouse gas emissions. You can go even further by buying local, organic, and seasonal produce to support sustainable agriculture.
8. Support eco-friendly businesses: If you feel passionate about reducing emissions, you must do more than just act at home; it's time to act on the high street. You can prioritise companies and products that demonstrate commitment to sustainability and reduce their environmental impact.
9. Educate others: A massive part of making this a success is through heightened awareness. We must do more to promote the best environmental practices so they can help aid humanity's fight against climate change. We should spread awareness about the importance of net-zero goals and encourage others to join in making sustainable choices. This means sharing information where you can. You can spread awareness on platforms such as social media, community events, or conversations with friends and family.
10. Get involved in local initiatives: Finally, it is about bringing everyone together as a community to highlight and localise the importance of effective environmental practice. This could mean participating in local events, workshops, or volunteer programs that promote sustainable practices and advocate for policies supporting the transition to a Net-Zero future.

Let's remember why we are doing any of the above matters. If the UK continues without actively striving to do any of the abovementioned actions, we will likely fail to meet our climate targets. This cannot happen. 

Failure to restrict global temperatures to a maximum increase of 1.5C will mean a failure to hit Net-Zero emissions by 2050. Achieving Net Zero by 2050 is vitally important because if humanity cannot fail to do so, Planet Earth may be beyond saving. 

Every little thing we do matters. Never overlook anything that can restrict your footprint or negate your positive behaviour's environmental impact. 

Let's all do our bit and push forward to ensure we have a bright, Net-Zero, future for all! 

The IEMA Pathways to Net Zero course provides clear guidance on best practices in response to the ongoing climate crisis.

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