How to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

You’ve probably heard about carbon footprints and how we should all work individually to reduce ours. But what does that even mean?

It’s important to first have an understanding of what it is. Our carbon footprint is the amount of greenhouse gasses (such as carbon dioxide and methane) we’re emitting into the environment through the lifestyle choices we make. 

Going green can help better the environment. In the process, most of us end up saving money, too, making eco-friendly choices a win-win decision for all of us. Leading a more environmentally-friendly lifestyle begins right in your own home. Here’s how to reduce your carbon footprint.

1. Insulate Your Home

You might not think that proper home insulation can have a drastic impact on the environment, but it can. Here’s why.

If your home isn’t properly insulated, it can cause poor temperature regulation. Insulation installation can help keep your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer. The end result? You’ll use less electricity, which helps the environment and your finances. 

2. Take Advantage of Renewable Energy

Cutting down on electric use can significantly reduce greenhouse gasses. Solar panels operate from the sun’s rays, converting them into electricity. You can, however, use solar power energy in combination with electricity to reduce the amount you’re using. 

3. Make the Switch to LED Lights

Incandescent light bulbs can have a huge impact on your carbon footprint. Making the switch to LED lights can save a whopping 80% on the amount of electricity you’re using. If you haven’t replaced yours yet, there’s no better time than right now. 

4. Look Inside Your Fridge 

One of the most eco-friendly things you can do is take a look at the foods you’re regularly putting in your fridge. The livestock industry releases 14% of manmade greenhouse gasses into the environment, with beef being the worst offender. Lamb is also a big contributor. 

We can all do our part and consume less beef. Consider switching to chicken, turkey or fish, instead. If possible, consider eating meatless and dairy-free meals several times a week to do your part to help reduce the environmental impact of meat consumption. You’ll also reap the health benefits associated with a vegan or vegetarian diet.

It’s also ideal to buy locally grown and raised fruits and vegetables whenever possible. Not only will you be supporting local farmers, but you’ll also help reduce the energy it takes to maintain the produce industry. 

5. Rethink Your Method of Transportation

According to the EPA, the transportation industry contributes to 29% of all man-made greenhouse gasses in the US in 2019. Although the majority of us rely on fossil fuels to get around, electric or hybrid vehicles may be slightly better for the environment. There are other options, too. Here are some ideas: 

• Walk or ride a bike whenever possible. 
• Take the bus around town.
• Consider carpooling to work or school.
• Think about taking a train instead of an airplane.
• Turn your car off whenever you’re sitting idle. 

Making a few tweaks to our transportation methods can have long-term effects on the environment—and may even save us money on gas, too. 

6. Recycle Everything 

You might already recycle when it comes to your trash. But garbage sorting isn’t the only time you can prevent your waste from ending up in landfills. Be sure to donate your clothes rather than throwing them away. Other ideas are having yard sales or selling your things on sites like eBay to prevent your things from getting thrown out. Remember, one person’s trash is someone else’s treasure!

These are just a few things you can do to reduce your carbon footprint. Making a few eco-friendly changes can have an impact on the environment, help you live a healthier lifestyle, and lead to long-term financial savings.