How to reduce global warming is a major challenge for our civilization. Our climate system is increasingly unstable, and stabilizing global temperature requires eliminating heat-trapping gases and achieving a carbon-neutral society. The transition to a carbon-neutral society requires major changes in infrastructure and energy technologies, and collective action by everyone.
Here are a few ways we can help the world become more sustainable. Read on to learn more.
Cut short-lived climate pollutants
One of the most powerful tools for curbing global warming is to reduce the production of shortlived climate pollutants (SLCPs), which are more potent greenhouse gasses than carbon dioxide. Reducing the amount of these pollutants will help to reduce global warming while also delivering multiple development benefits, such as increased health, improved food security, and poverty alleviation. Read on to learn about some of the most effective SLCP-reduction strategies.
Decarbonization alone may not be enough to hold the atmospheric temperature rise below two degrees Celsius, and would actually lead to more warming in the near future. To limit warming, we need to cut short-lived climate pollutants, including black carbonclick.com, methane, and hydrofluorocarbons. By doing this, we can prevent nearly 2.5 million premature deaths and save 50 million tons of food. Moreover, such tangible benefits will increase public support for more aggressive mitigation actions, such as the reduction of these pollutants.
Turn to renewable energy
If we are serious about reducing global warming, we must turn to renewable energy. A global switch to 100% renewable energy would be achievable in thirty years. With greater geographical connectivity, renewable energy could be an integral part of our energy mix, reducing energy demand and costs. However, the transition must be more rapid, as we may not be able to reach the 1.5-degree global warming goal in time. A new study from Stanford University examined 47 peer-reviewed research papers and identified several scenarios to help us meet our goals.
In addition to reducing your carbon footprint, a quick switch to renewable energy could also reduce your electricity bill. Many small, yet important, changes in your lifestyle can help reduce your energy costs and your carbon footprint. Simply wearing extra layers and turning down your heating when you are not at home can help. If you don’t feel comfortable using your electricity, you can buy a LED light bulb. You can make your entire house more energy efficient and save money in the process.
Recycle
Recycling helps the climate in the long run, but it can only do so much if it is implemented properly. Recycling can help reduce the use of virgin materials, decrease deforestation, and create jobs. Recycling can also prevent trash from ending up in landfills and incinerators, which release millions of tons of greenhouse gases and countless other pollutants into the atmosphere.
However, this is easier said than done. In this article, we will look at why recycling is so
important and how you can start doing your part to help the climate.
Recycling can save the planet’s resources, so it is vital to reduce the amount of waste that we create. Recycling can reduce the flow of waste materials to landfills, which generate methane and other harmful gases. Reducing the flow of waste into landfills also reduces energy use, resulting in less fossil fuels being burned and fewer greenhouse gases released. It is also beneficial to the environment because recycling prevents the production of new products.
Walk
Walking is a great way to save energy and reduce global warming. You can walk for as long as you like, and the amount of energy required to cover the distance will not be much more than what you use in your daily life. Many cities are transforming into urban heat islands, so it’s not surprising that the emissions associated with walking vary widely among them. While the global average for emissions per kilometer is around 0.8, the highest-emitting countries have 2.4 times as many emissions per kilometer walked.
In addition to walking, you can bike or use public transportation. You will cut down on traffic and pollution. Most vehicles burn gasoline and diesel, so opting for public transportation instead of driving will help you reduce your carbon footprint. Also, eat more fruits and vegetables and less meat. The production of plant-based foods is less energy-intensive and requires less land and water. This can make a significant difference in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Commuting
Many people are unaware of the impact commuting has on global warming. Research shows that it accounts for about a quarter of all greenhouse gas emissions in Canada. And that increase is higher than any other sector. Transportation is the single largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, and how we get to work is a major contributor. Unfortunately, most of us have little alternative to driving, and changing our habits is a difficult task. We need to change our habits if we hope to reduce our carbon footprint and protect our future.
However, a study published last year found that the reduction in commuting emissions was nearly 40%, compared to the pre-COVID-19 period. This reduction equates to a per-capita abatement value of 1.9 tCO2e. Fortunately, the study also examined commuting data from twenty-four countries, and quantified the negative impact on the climate when commuting resumed.
Reducing the need to buy new products
The biggest way to reduce the need to purchase new products is to reuse and recycle old ones. This strategy reduces waste and costs by reducing the need for new materials. The extraction and fabrication of raw materials and transportation of goods cause greenhouse gas emissions. Recycling and reducing the need to buy new products are two ways to save natural resources and protect the environment. They also help reduce indirect CO2 emissions and reduce the impact of global climate change.
Changing consumer behavior is crucial in reducing global warming. We have a lot of room for improvement. Many of us are guilty of not switching to a more environmentally friendly brand or a higher-quality product because we don’t know which one is better. However, there are many products and practices that reduce our carbon footprint. Consider making these changes today.
Here are some ways to reduce the need to buy new products:
