You can reduce your carbon footprint by changing a few small things in your life
Our daily habits play a part in shaping the planet’s future. From the food we eat to how we shop, there are many small changes we can make to help the environment.
Here are some ways to make an impact on reducing your carbon footprint.
Plant-based diet
The food you eat can impact your carbon footprint. Animal agriculture is a leading contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, water usage and deforestation.
Choosing to participate in a plant-based diet can assist with reducing your carbon footprint.
There are organizations in Ottawa like VegOttawa that promote and spread awareness of the plant-based diets, they push themselves to advocate for the vegan lifestyle.
“Most people don’t realize the significant impact their dietary choices have on the planet,” said Alan Wong, the president of VegOttawa. “Eating more plant-based is one of the most significant things people reading this can do to reduce their contribution to climate change and is also in line with the Canada Food Guide”.
Reducing the amount of animal products, you consume can help reduce greenhouse gases. Starting small with Meatless Mondays or buying plant-based alternatives can be changes that people start making.
Thrifting over fast fashion
Everyone wants to keep up with the newest and current trends, but constantly buying new clothing can be increasing your carbon footprint.
The trend of fast fashion contributes strongly to carbon emissions, pollution and waste. Good news! You can easily solve this issue by shopping second-hand. Thrift stores are a great way to find unique and cheap clothing while helping to eliminate the environmental effects that clothing production makes.
Transportation options
With the introduction of train Line 2 and 4, Ottawa is working to create more transportation options for residents. By switching to using public transportation, biking or walking instead of using a car you can help reduce gas emission.
The City of Ottawa shows 44 per cent of Ottawa’s greenhouse gas emissions come from transportation. With so many options of getting around, residents should look to other transportation options instead of using their car all the time.
Reducing single-use plastic
Everywhere you go there is plastic: grocery bags, produce bags, coffee cups and bottled water just to name a few.
The amount of plastic created is causing a major environmental concern, but with small changes, this can be reduced. When going to the grocery story, bring reusable bags for packing your groceries. When going out, bring a reusable coffee cup and water bottle to help eliminate plastic cups. By incorporating these items into your lives, we can help eliminate single-use plastics.
Be conscious of energy use
Simply turning off lights and unplugging cords is the easiest way we can reduce our carbon footprint. When not using chargers, kitchen appliances and lights, unplug them to help save energy.
Additionally, when brushing your teeth or washing dishes, turn the water off when not using it. When you’re not in a room, turn the light off, or if it’s sunny outside, open the windows to use natural light.
Conserving energy at home is one of the simplest ways we can reduce our carbon footprint.
Conclusion
With so many sustainable options available, applying these small changes can help contribute to a greener future.
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