Five Ways To Lower Your Impact on Climate Change

Climate change is one of the main issues of our time. It will, in some ways, define the future and posterity of our species. It is an existential problem. Not only is the warming planet affecting humanity, but it is also impacting species around the world. While most greenhouse gas emissions come from large corporations, it is imperative that we all do our part to lower our carbon footprint and overall effect on the environment. If you're unsure how to do it, below are five ways to lower your impact on climate change to do your part and gain some peace of mind while you're at it.

Drive Less and Use Less Gas

One huge impact that we have on the environment comes from our cars. We drive a lot. In the United States, driving is a part of our culture. It is what we do and how we get around. A great way for many people around the world to decrease their carbon footprint is to drive less or use less gas. 

There are many ways you can do this. Taking public transportation is one. Carpooling is another. Or you could invest in an electric car. The jury is still out on the long-term environmental impact of battery production and electricity use, but we know for sure that we need to use less gas.

Use Your Thermostat Less and Make Sure It's Working

Cooling and warming our homes takes a tremendous amount of energy. It is one of the largest culprits of greenhouse gasses. Not only should you avoid using your thermostat so often, but you should also make sure that it is working properly. Are your windows and doors sealed? If not, they could be letting air out and letting air you don't want in. Furthermore, is your house insulated?

Insulation will help you keep your house the temperature you want it to be. In California, where people use their air conditioner frequently, this is particularly prevalent. Old insulation should be replaced. If you're looking for San Diego insulation removal and someone to put in new insulation, you have plenty of options.

Beyond insulation, a smart thermostat can help you regulate temperature in the house from wherever you are. Using just your phone, you can turn down or turn up the temperature of your home. This means that you won't have to leave it on if you want your place to be at an ideal temperature when you get home.

Alter Your Diet

Another way that you can reduce your carbon footprint is to change your diet. Your diet, believe it or not, has an impact on global warming. For example, the production of meat plays a role in the changing climate. Beef makes up a huge portion of greenhouse gas emissions. The production of milk also contributes to the impact on the environment. Cutting out meat and dairy will improve your carbon footprint, but not everybody wants to do that. Instead, if you can be mindful of your diet and make good choices you can make an impact little by little.

Use Less Water

Water isn't just the most precious substance on the planet, using water both in our homes and out has a significant effect on the environment. For example, when you use a lot of water at home, your water heater is working overtime to keep it warm. The energy this takes is immense. So, taking shorter showers can greatly assist this. 

Furthermore, when you are buying a lot of water bottles when you are out and about, the plastic involved always has an effect on the planet. The production of plastic is immense, and it doesn't get broken down much when you recycle it. Next time you're in the shower, think about the consequences.

Invest in Smart Appliances

Finally, you can also invest in smart appliances to decrease your personal impact on climate change. Smart appliances are items that have special features to use less power, water, and gas. They are more expensive than your average dishwasher or laundry dryer, but in the end, they will lower your bills and overall impact on the planet.

It isn't easy to lower your personal impact on the environment and the warming planet-you are used to your lifestyle-but if no one does anything we will experience grave consequences. Still, you don't need to live off-the-grid to do your part. Simply pay attention and alter your purchases and behavior accordingly.