The global average energy-related carbon footprint is around 4.7 tonnes of CO2 per person, according to the International Energy Agency. This sizeable amount is the equivalent of taking 2 round trip flights between Singapore to the US.
Sustainability is high on the agenda of almost every country across the globe as they commit to their individual net zero emissions targets. There are several steps you can take to help your residing country meet these goals because small changes result in bigger impacts.
Five steps to reduce your carbon footprint
1. Get your home properly insulated
Insulation helps keep your home cooler in summer and warmer in the colder months, reducing the need for other means of heating and cooling. The cost of insulation is impacted by the ease of access, removal of any existing insulation, and electrical wiring.
2. Invest in a heat pump
Heat pumps derive heat from outside, be it from the air, ground or water, and then use it to heat your home and their hot water systems. They are not high maintenance machines and also typically cut your carbon footprint by 44% and protect you against the gas boiler phaseout.
3. Utilise solar energy over fossil fuels
Solar energy can help you save a lot of money on your energy bills, besides reducing your carbon footprint too. This is because solar power doesn’t produce any emissions during generation itself. There are grants available you can utilise to help reduce the initial investment.
4. Rethink your travel choices
Deciding to walk or cycle to the shops instead of driving will have a massive impact on your health and the environment. If you need to drive, use an electric car instead. EVs are an investment but they can help considerably reduce your carbon footprint.
5. Increase your recycling efforts
Recycling is a highly effective method to reduce your environmental impact. Most of the time, it’s free too. You can also reduce your food waste by freezing items you won’t use for a late date or plan your meals ahead of time. If less goes into landfill, your carbon footprint drops too.
READ MORE : Top things to do to protect your family from carbon monoxide poisoning
