Business, Economics, Education, Entrepreneurs,
Environment, Science and Technology
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Lifestyle - reducing emissions
10 Steps to a Cooler Planet
Each Canadian generates, on average, five tonnes of greenhouse gases a year
that are linked to climate change. The good news is there are things each
of us can do to make a real difference without having to make drastic
changes to our lifestyles.
From better transportation choices to changing the way we heat, cool and light our homes, here are 10 steps you can take to help keep our planet healthy, all while saving money, living in healthier and more comfortable homes.
1. Don't drive it - transit. Simply switching some of your local travel
from a car to public transit can save up to 230 kg of CO2 per year
for every 1,000 km you drive.
2. Think smaller. Dropping your family vehicle a size or two can
eliminate 1,100-2,600 kg of CO2 each year - and save you hundreds of
dollars at the gas pump!
3. Stay grounded. For shorter family trips, taking the bus or train
instead of travelling by plane could do both the planet and your
wallet a favour.
4. Reduce your home heating bills. If you live in an older home,
improving the energy-efficiency or even just lowering the thermostat
by as little as 10 C can reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
5. Reconsider your space needs. Larger homes use considerably more
energy so, the next time you move, ask yourself if a smaller home
might better fit your needs.
6. Buy green. When buying appliances, choosing the most energy-efficient
models can save up to 400 kg of CO2 a year.
7. Stay out of hot water. Wrapping your hot water heater in a thermal
blanket and keeping it turned down to 500 C can save a family of four
600 kg of CO2 per year.
8. Eat your vegetables. Adopting a less meat-intensive diet can have a
significant impact on your greenhouse gas emissions - and your
family's health!
9. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Cutting your garbage production by just one
bag a week could save your family 300 kg of CO2 a year.
10. Remember: you have the power. In response to consumer demand, many
utility companies are introducing Green Power options at a premium
price. By switching to green power, you can reduce your home's CO2
emissions.
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