Reducing your carbon footprint and saving energy can seem like impossible tasks; especially when you consider just how much energy it takes to run the electronics and other appliances we use every day.
However; taking even minor measures to save energy can make all the difference in the world to our planet; as well as your wallet.
Climate Change: What is it?
Changing climates refer to long-term shifts in climate such as temperature and the wind. This could be natural; like from the sun. However; in recent years; human activities have become the chief driving force behind global warming. As a result of burning large amounts of fossil fuels, namely coal, oil, and natural gas.
Scientists are concerned that current temperature increases are not caused by natural causes; but rather by human behaviour.
How it is effecting us?
Believing that CO2 emissions from man are contributing to the greenhouse effect are the claim of climate scientists. The greenhouse effect occurs when gases in the Earth’s atmosphere trap the Sun’s heat; making the planet much warmer than it would be without one. Earth is a comfortable place to live due to the greenhouse effect.
Clearly this disruption; at least so far, is leading to things like a greater number of diseases, illnesses and deaths due to increasingly frequent extreme weather events such as heat waves, storms, floods, disruptions to food supply systems, more instances of zoonotic diseases (animals passing illnesses to humans) and more health problems, mental health related ones too.
It is expected that less developed nations will suffer the most; with more species going extinct and the waters becoming more poisonous.
Something must be done!
How can we help save energy?
Without a doubt there is more we can all do at home to help save energy; helping make a significant contribution to the environment.
We have listed 10 simple steps everyone can do in their own homes to get you started:
- Turn off lights and electronics when you aren’t using them
- Replace traditional light bulbs with LEDs.
- Get a smart thermostat
- Ensure your home is properly insulated.
- Put decorative lights on a timer.
- Switch off standby
- Reduce appliance use.
- Use less hot water.
- Swap a bath for a shower
- Avoid using the tumble dryer
A Carbon Footprint: What is this?
The phrase carbon footprint refers to the amount of carbon dioxide emissions that a person, group, or community contributes to the environment.
Every day; we engage in a variety of activities that contribute to our carbon footprint. Throughout the years; many high-profile efforts have been launched to encourage us to reduce our carbon footprint. Changing what and how we eat and drink, replacing appliances with more energy-efficient options, reducing our dependence on transportation; and minimising trash can help lower our carbon footprint. By buying locally produced food that does not require shipping; we can also use more renewable energy.
In addition; we can also benefit from improving the insulation in our houses; since it will reduce our reliance on gas and electric heating equipment, allowing us to stay comfortable even in the coldest months of the year. Reducing your carbon footprint may also be achieved by recycling as much as possible and throwing away less garbage.
Several things can be done to reduce the cost of living while also protecting our limited resources and providing a better, more ecologically friendly world for future generations. If you’ve been trying to save energy at home; why not begin making changes now?
Renewable Energy Technology
Undoubtedly, Renewable Technologies are the future; providing clean, effective and cost-efficient ways to heat your home and power your electric vehicles. Unlike non-renewable energy; a renewable source of energy is one that is derived from a natural source rather than a source that contaminates the environment. Renewable energy is constantly replenishable; non-renewable energy is difficult to source and is easy to replace.
Here at SwitchedOn of a vary of these technologies from Solar PV to Heat Pumps.
We can guide you on the ideal solution for your renewable technology journey.
Ready to start your switch to renewable energy?
Making your home more energy efficient shouldn’t be hard work.
Let SwitchedOn Yorkshire help you.
