Consume Less Meat
One great way to fight climate change is to lessen your meat consumption. Even a small reduction can help. Greenhouse gases from farming are a more significant issue than fossil fuels. Though we often speak of reducing fossil fuel usage – and that’s crucial – we seldom discuss the larger problem. Red meat stands out, needing eleven times more water and creating five times more emissions than chicken. You don’t need to go vegetarian, but consider eating meat less often – the average American consumes 8.5 ounces daily. Producing one pound of beef requires over 5,000 gallons of water. Animal farming, being the largest global consumer of freshwater, contributes greatly to water scarcity. Remember to inform others: many aren’t aware of the meat-climate change link.
Disconnect Your Devices
It might surprise you to know that your electronics draw energy when plugged in, even if they’re switched off. This “phantom power” costs up to $19 billion in energy annually in the U.S. Every plugged-in cord adds to your carbon footprint. A simple solution? Keep your devices unplugged unless you’re actively using them.
Reduce Driving
Choose to walk, cycle, or ride the bus instead of driving. This simple decision can have direct positive impacts. Many are choosing to cycle to work, particularly as bike lanes become more common. Cities are investing in making car ownership less necessary. There are over 65 million cyclists in the U.S., a number that has grown notably in the last five years. Increasing populations require efficient public transit systems, and alternatives like subways, trains, buses, and rapid transit are expanding. Many new bus routes are embracing hybrids, solar power, and other green alternatives. Public transit in the U.S. saves 37 million tons of carbon emissions annually. Cities are focusing on walkability, adding more green spaces, and building with green infrastructure and community engagement in mind.
Grow a Garden
Whether you live in a house or apartment, growing plants is a quick way to reduce your carbon footprint. Plants absorb carbon dioxide, which is beneficial to humans. Consider planting bee-friendly flowers, trees, or even a vegetable garden. Balcony gardens are a good option for city dwellers. Cities often combat the “urban heat island effect” – cities are generally hotter than rural areas due to large paved areas, concrete structures, and human activity. Adding more spaces for plants, grasses, and trees can offset this effect, leading to better cooling, essential in our changing climate. Help fight the heat island effect by planting shade trees or even starting a green roof or community garden.
Choose Local and Organic Foods
Try to eat local, seasonal produce when you can. Eating foods grown close to you reduces the carbon footprint linked to food transportation. The rule of thumb? The closer the better. When produce is grown locally, environmental costs are significantly cut. Consider the journey food from a distant country makes, involving planes, ships, trains, or trucks. This produce must be kept cool, is often harvested too early, resulting in lower quality and fewer nutrients. Small farms tend to use better soil management practices and maintain wildlife habitats. Eating local supports your local economy and food security.