How to reduce your carbon footprint
Every human has a responsibility to help protect our planet, whose worst enemy is greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, which contribute to climate change. While we may not be able to achieve our climate goals individually, we can still make a difference. Here’s how.
1. Travelling
According to the David Suzuki Foundation, approximately 24% of Canada’s emissions come from transportation.
- For shorter distances, opt for walking or riding your bike.
- Use public transit such as the bus, train and métro.
- Carpool as much as possible.
- Work from home.
- When it comes time to replace your gas vehicle, choose an electric one.
- When you fly, buy recognized carbon offsets.
2. Eating
The meat industry is the largest emitter of greenhouse gas emissions, ahead of transportation.
- Eat less meat and fewer dairy products.
- Consume local products.
- Don’t waste food. Nearly half of global food production is thrown away every day.
3. At home
Canadians are among the highest energy users per capita in the world.
- Lower your heating by one degree.
- Take shorter showers.
- Run the dishwasher when it’s full.
- Hang dry your laundry instead of using the dryer.
- Wash your clothes in cold water.
4. Consuming
Every day, we consume goods and services. Before you buy something, ask yourself if you can reuse or repair it, or pass it on to someone else when you’re done with it. If not, here are some other good options for the planet:
- Choose reusable products over disposable products (e.g. fabric dish towels rather than paper towels).
- Purchase used products locally, with as little packaging as possible.
- Support businesses that strive to reduce their GHG emissions.
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