Going off the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) special report on the impact of global warming, speedy and bold changes are required by our four global systems- energy, land use, cities and industry. The good news is we can make a difference by rethinking our priorities. It’s empowering to know lifestyle changes by individuals can make a difference.
According to Dr Debra Roberts, the IPCC’s co-chair, “This is not about remote science; it is about where we live and work, and it gives us a cue on how we might be able to contribute to that massive change, because everyone is going to have to be involved. You might say you don’t have control over land use, but you do have control over what you eat and that determines land use. We can choose the way we move in cities and if we don’t have access to public transport – make sure you are electing politicians who provide options around public transport.”
Here are some suggestions from the IPCC report:
- Buy less meat, milk, cheese and butter and more locally sourced seasonal food * and throw less of it away
- Drive electric cars but walk or cycle short distances * take trains and buses instead of planes * use videoconferencing instead of business travel
- Use a washing line instead of a tumble dryer * insulate homes * demand low carbon in every consumer product
UNFCCC’s personal choices to reduce your contribution to climate change Credit: UNFCCC
Fossil fuels were so last century. Though the foundations of our global economy and daily comforts and conveniences were built on the burning of coal and oil, we need to see past our own vested interests if we are to make a collective change. We need to use smarter, green energy in our homes, workplaces and cars. Renewable energy like solar, wind, hydropower and bioenergy all contribute.
Types of renewable energy Credit: Climate Council
To be energy-wise, did you know you can install solar, or switch to green power, or invest in community solar? There are many sustainable options that take into account our carbon footprint. There are free renewable energy resources in addition to Green Living Centre’s Intro to Solar and Solar Assessments to help you on your pathway to solar whether you are a renter or a home-owner. Folks it’s time to go solar!
- Our Energy Future website and app
- Invest in Community Solar
- Switch to Green power
Our Energy Future services Credit: Our Energy Future