Three Simple Ways You Can Reduce Your Carbon Footpint
When we talk about our carbon footprint, it refers to the amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of the activities of a particular individual, organisation or community.
And when we talk about reducing this, we’re effectively looking to pinpoint the ways in which we can limit the repercussions these particular activities have.
You might be thinking you’re too small to make any impact at all, but every little bit counts.
So we’ve put together a list of all the simple things you can do in your day-to-day activities that will positively impact our environment and reduce your carbon footprint.
Reduce & Reuse
Limiting the consumption of single-use plastic and re-using where possible is probably the simplest of ways in which you can immediately reduce your carbon footprint, whilst also positively impacting your bank account!
Here are a few easy switches to make life waste free:
Opt for a glass or a stainless steel water bottle
Purchase a re-usable Keep Cup – although some take away cups may be recyclable most aren’t!
BYO metal straw
BYO canvas shopping bags & reusable produce bags – plastic bags can take up to 1000 years to break down
Store and pack your left-overs in reusable containers
Travel Responsibly
A lot of what contributes to our overall carbon footprint comes from travel. Although vehicles may be becoming more fuel efficient, the emissions from burning fuel and the resources, (like plastic) needed to not only build but service the vehicles and its offerings in the first place are weighing heavily on the environment.
Of course, there are several ways however in which you can travel thoughtfully and reduce your individual waste:
Opt for public transport and ride/walk where possible.
Minimise flying – take the scenic route and book a GoGet instead!
Defer a purchase of an infrequently used car/second car and car share instead
Pack your own food instead of purchasing takeaway
Avoid purchasing disposable products and bring your own eco-friendly alternatives such as bamboo toothbrushes and re-usable travel size shampoo/conditioner containers
Go paperless with all tickets, documents and receipts
Eat Locally & Seasonally
By taking a step back and reviewing how you not only consume, but also source your food, is another extremely effective way to positively impact your carbon footprint. By eating seasonally and sourcing locally you’re also contributing to society and local community prosperity.
Here’s how:
Eat locally – avoid eating foods that need to be imported
Find your local farmers market and buy all your fruit and veg fresh (you can always book a GoGet to get there!)
Avoid processed food where possible and purchase product without wrapping
Plant your own veggie patch and create your own compost pot
Limit your meat intake and try and purchase from a butcher or local stand at the markets