10 tips to help reduce your greenhouse gas emissions
Global warming has become a major issue for Australians. Many of us want to do what is best for the environment, but are
unsure what difference we can make. Small changes made now can have a huge impact on reducing current and future greenhouse gas emissions. In many cases reducing your greenhouse gas production can also save you money.What is Global Warming?
Each year, the average Australian household generates about 14 tonnes of greenhouse gas. These gases build up in the earth’s atmosphere, absorbing heat as it leaves earth and returning some of this heat, gradually making the earth warmer. The Earth is getting warmer, and may rise up to 5°C this century.
The hole in the Ozone layer and global warming are not the same problem.
What produces greenhouse gases?
The main producers of greenhouse gases for a typical household are:
* Fossil Fuels- The burning of fossil fuels such as coal, gas and oil for electricity and in our vehicles.
* Waste- The breakdown of food waste and sewerage produces methane, a greenhouse gas.
* Humans- Many human activities produce a number of greenhouse gases such as methane, carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide.
1. Switch to Green Electricity
Many companies now offer a green alternative for your household electricity. Green Electricity comes from 100% renewal sources such as wind and hydro power. Greenhouse gases produced by fossil fuel generated electricity make up 1/3 of the gasses Australia produces. While green power is slightly more expensive than regular electricity, the added cost is only around $14 per bill.
2. Switch all globes to compact fluorescent light bulbs
Recently the Australian Government has announced a gradual phase out of all inefficient incandescent light bulbs and is aiming for full enforcement of new lighting standards legislation by 2009 to 2010. For Australian households, lighting accounts for approximately 12% of greenhouse gas emissions. New Compact fluorescent bulbs reduce emissions and cost by 75% while producing as much light as a traditional bulb.
3. Turn off unused appliances
In an average home, appliances left on standby mode can produce up to 750kg of greenhouse gases. Turn them off at the power point when not in use.
4. Use the energy rating stars as a guide when shopping
Use the Energy Rating Star program as a guide when purchasing new energy efficient household appliances. The more stars a product has, the more efficient it is.
5. Choose a more efficient transport.
Buying a fuel efficient car can help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and save you money. [url]www.greenvehicleguide.gov.au[/url] has details on emissions and air pollution performance of new cars, there is also a fuel consumption guide for older cars. Switching, where possible to diesel can also reduce your emissions. Also be sure your tyres are properly inflated, tyres with low pressure will increase your fuel consumption and emissions.
Walk, carpool or take public transport where possible.
6. Heating and Cooling your home.
When heating or cooling your home, make sure you are dressed appropriately for the weather. There is no need to sit around in a singlet and shorts and the heater on if its cold outside.
Keep windows closed and covered when heating or cooling, windows can let large amounts of heat escape in winter, and in summer a large window can absorb as much heat as a small heater.
Choose effective heating and cooling solutions best suited for your home.
7. Refuse, Reduce, Re-Use, Recycle
Refuse- plastic shopping bags and excess packaging material
Reduce- the waste you produce.
Reuse- reuse packaging, bags and containers. Repair items instead of throwing them out. Sell your unwanted items, if you can’t reuse it someone else can.
Recycle- There will be things that the above 3 do not apply. Many items can be recycled these days, contact your local council for advice on recycling in your area.
8. Compost green waste
Composting green waste at home in a compost bin or worm farm can help reduce gas emissions. When this waste mater breaks down without oxygen, as in landfills, methane gas is produced. Keep your compost well aired, turning regularly. If your compost starts to smell, it is not getting enough air, and is producing gases.
9. Plant trees
Planting trees around your home, or joining tree planting initiatives in your community can help absorb the greenhouse gases your family produces.
Well places trees can also help reduce your cooling costs in summer by offering shade.
10. Share with friends and family
Now that you have made changes in your life to reduce your greenhouse gas emissions, share you tips with family and friends and help them do their bit too.
Let us know what your doing at home to help reduce climate change?
Regarding light-bulbs, in NSW at least a lot of the electricity providers are giving away 6 (?) energy efficient light-bulbs per household. It’s a good way to get started :)
i think we should pass more strict laws against Greenhouse Gases. it is good to know that at least there is a reduction in Chloro Fluoro Carbon use today but the real problem today is still CO2.