Simple Changes to Slash Your Carbon Footprint

If we are honest, most of us can do more to save the planet. While you can’t do it alone, there are some pretty simple ways to slash your carbon footprint for everyone’s benefit. From solar panel installations to smart home monitoring, here are some handy, green suggestions.

Economical and Low-Emission Vehicles

Your car is probably the most polluting item you own. But of course, a vehicle is an essential tool in the modern world. Fortunately, there are limits on how much carbon a car can produce. However, there are some cars that operate with minimal CO2 emissions. Many people are making the switch from older or bulkier vehicles to hatchbacks like small Skoda cars, hybrids and electric vehicles. Switching to an EV alone will result in 50% less carbon being released.

How About Free Energy from the Sun?

With prices of energy currently out of control, who couldn’t do with a reduction in costs? Of course, there is an initial investment to be made when installing solar panels. But the savings can be astounding. Not only will your carbon emissions be vastly reduced, but you help save the planet. But you will also save up to 90% on your energy bills. The savings you make will also have paid for the installation costs within 10 years, and some governments offer grants.

Heating Changes to Slash Your Carbon Footprint

Up to 22% of CO2 emissions in the UK come from people’s homes. This comes from everyday things like heating, lighting and the appliances we use on a daily basis. Heating is an example. We all love to be toasty at home. But there are alternatives, and right and wrong ways to warm up the home. For example, leaving the heating at its highest setting wastes energy, money and releases more carbon than necessary. Temperature control and draught-proofing go a long way.

Smart Home Monitoring

Almost all modern heating systems come with some sort of temperature control. This is excellent for ensuring you use only what you need. But more systems are becoming “smart”. Smart home systems allow you to control anything remotely, such as the lights. Some also come with monitoring systems. For example, sensors may detect that nobody is using a room and switch off the lights. Automatic systems can contribute to reduced carbon and costs.

Get a Bit More Proactive

Ultimately, the amount of carbon your home release is down to how proactive you are. All appliances have settings that will reduce energy usage. And modern products are of a higher energy standard. Learning to use appliances well, such as economy settings, helps lower CO2. Paying attention to appliances with standby modes also helps save up to £70 per year in an average household. And what about draughts? Address problem areas around the home.

Summary

Vehicles that perform better, or even EVs, will help slash your carbon footprint. Using your heating system correctly also helps. But it is also up to you to be proactive about being green.

*This is a collaboration post