Now that we’ve decided climate change is real, the next important point of discussion is how we (as consumers) can decrease our carbon footprint. In a broad sense, we simply need to increase our energy efficiency. For the typical person in our society, energy efficiency can be improved in the workplace, automobile and home.
Regarding energy efficiency in the workplace, most major changes depend on decisions made by the business and/or building owner (to no surprise). There are many types of technologies in today’s market which aim to decrease energy use in commercial and industrial settings, most of which do not require individual employees to change habitual actions. However, small changes controlled by the individuals – such as turning off lights, shutting down computers instead of hibernating, turning heat or AC levels down, etcetera – can also make a difference, as long as the entire workforce is committed to making the necessary changes. As many people might guess, the issue of free riding is a very prevalent excuse used by many employees who simply have no incentive to be more energy efficient. After all, there probably aren’t any employers who give out bonuses to their employees for using less electricity.
As for energy efficiency in your automobile, the issue of free riding is replaced by financial hardship. Most people argue they simply cannot emit less carbon in the transportation department because they cannot afford to buy a different car, such as a fancy new hybrid. However, there are of course many other ways to use less gas and consequently emit less carbon. I would like to pause here for a hot minute and acknowledge that most readers have probably heard everything I have said thus far dozens of times… but the point I will make in the next sentence cannot be repeated enough in my opinion. Use public transportation. One more time for effect – use public transportation! There are buses, metros and trains running all over most cities with lots of empty seats and standing space. If you are absolutely against public transportation, then start an email chain or Facebook group with your coworkers to start an energy efficiency carpool. On a slightly different note, try to walk or ride a bike to the grocery store, gym, school, bars, etc. as often as possible.
The last area – and by far the most opportunistic – is energy efficiency in the home. The reason I say it’s the most opportunistic area is because homeowners and renters have very little accountability to use less energy. The only consequence to using more energy than needed is a slightly higher monthly electricity bill. Many people would argue they are environmentally aware and consciously use less electricity or gas in order to decrease their footprint. However true this may be, there are very few people who are actually decreasing their consumption to their full potential. The main problem is that most people have no idea how to go about doing this – they would need a computer system hooked up to their breaker panel and configured to their specific utility rate structure to maximize their saving potential. Fortunately there are such technologies which are sprouting up in the youthful Home Energy Monitor market. Learn why consuming electricity at different times of the day DOES make a difference to your carbon footprint and your monthly bill in the Home Energy blog.
Home Energy Management is making a big difference to slow the effects of climate change. But if you want to lead a truly Green lifestyle, you will need to fully commit to making changes in the workplace, in your car, and especially in your home.
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