Climate change is a real global phenomenon that threatens life as we know it and the planet’s habitability. According to NASA, the average global temperature has risen at an alarming rate over the last few decades. This has led to glacial retreat, sea-level rise, warming oceans, and extreme and unpredictable weather patterns.
Combating global warming and climate change is a collective effort that calls upon every individual to contribute in whichever ways they can. Reducing our anthropogenic emissions of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases is the only effective way to curb global warming and its adverse effects on the environment.
As governments and international bodies work hard to minimise global carbon emissions, you can also take part in the noble course of becoming carbon positive in the following ways:
What Does It Mean to Become Carbon Positive?
Becoming carbon positive goes a step beyond just reducing or offsetting emissions. It means that instead of only balancing out the carbon you produce, you’re actually helping remove more carbon from the atmosphere than you create.
In simple terms, it’s like giving back more to the planet than you take. For example, a business might not only switch to renewable energy and cut waste but also invest in reforestation projects or clean energy initiatives that actively reduce global emissions.
Being carbon positive isn’t just about doing less harm; it’s about creating a net benefit for the environment and building a healthier, more sustainable future.
Create a Carbon Zero Home
A carbon zero home refers to any household that runs on carbon-free energy and emits zero pollutants. It covers everything from architectural design to power systems that utilise natural energy instead of fossil or biomass fuels.
Achieving a carbon zero home can be as easy as installing residential solar panels and running your house on clean, renewable power. The generation and use of solar energy, even on a domestic level, can significantly offset carbon emissions.
Reduce your Energy Consumption
Minimise your energy footprint and dependency by reducing your overall energy requirements. For starters, you can install solar panels to supplement your grid’s power supply. Doing so can result in up to 80 per cent energy savings, subsequently cutting your emissions impact and electric bill. Also, examine your wiring and appliances for inefficiencies and replace wasteful electronics with modern energy-conscious alternatives.
Reduce Lifestyle Emissions
Certain day-to-day habits and preferences can have a direct impact on your carbon emissions. Take an objective look at your lifestyle and adopt a way of life that reduces emissions and energy consumption.
Some of these could be as basic as switching off lights when not in use, opting for minimal emissions transport such as cycling, driving electric or hybrid cars, saving hot water, minimising wastage, and making green purchase decisions.
Everybody has a role to play in controlling carbon emissions. Take a personal initiative to be more carbon positive and help counteract global warming and climate change. Remember, even the smallest contribution toward a more sustainable future counts. All you have to do is make a few lifestyle changes and take a greener approach to energy supply and usage.
Speaking of green energy, Solar Miner is a solar installation service provider in Victoria that can help you set up a practical solar system in your home. Get in touch or call us on 1300 285 885 to learn more about residential solar panels.