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World Environment Day

Kick your carbon habit . . . in 60 seconds.

 

June 5th is World Environment Day. It’s big. It’s been running since 1972 and it’s the UN’s way of getting us focused on the environment. This year, they want us to kick our CO2 habit.

 

When do they want it? Now.

 

So, with no time to waste, Ethical Superstore has waded through their lengthy wish list to deliver – in a nutshell – the speedy no-nonsense guide to going low carbon.

 

Just do it. Saying you will do something about it is half the battle. If whole countries such as Costa Rica, New Zealand and Norway can aim for carbon neutral, so can you.

 

Find out where your gases are coming from. A good carbon calculator will work out the nitty gritty for you.

 

Set yourself a target. You should be able to reduce 10 per cent without too much problem. Focusing your efforts on the energy and fuel you are using are the first big steps.

 

Think ‘low carbon use’. Everything we do or use embodies carbon of some sort. An estimated 20 per cent of emissions contributing to climate change globally are a result of deforestation so use certified products like FSC – not only charcoal, but everyday items such as greeting cards and bathroom products are available.

 

Think ‘low carbon travel’ such as public transport or getting on your bike – make it a super-sexy folding bike and you can cleverly do both. And, why not make a pledge to swap your energy-expensive travel for a bike once a week and change your world. If you can work from home one day a week, consider it.

 

Switch your home energy. Generally, coal produces twice the amount of emissions of gas; six times the amount of solar; 40 times the amount of wind and 200 times the amount from hydro. So, if you haven’t already, switch to a green supplier pronto. Check out the grants available if you need further financial incentives.

 

Carbon offset or use a company that does .

 

Reduce, reuse and recycle. The 3Rs are more relevant than ever. Why not get that sought after recycling bin, use reusable nappies, sleep under a recycled fibre duvet, use recycled kitchen towels, glasses, office paper, aluminium foil, laptop bag and toothbrush. You can even get a razor from recycled plastic – how sharp is that?

 

Eco design is the future. Designs that are energy-efficient, such as the eco-kettle, as well as those that consider overall carbon count are the way to go. Opt for organic food, hand-produced Fair Trade fashion and natural materials like jute. Energy-efficient rated products will help you do more with less such as the standby buster. And if you still haven’t fitted energy-efficient light bulbs, where have you been? – Obviously in the dark. Get some fitted throughout your home and offices, now.

 

Consumers want to buy green – it’s proven – so businesses help us please. Support companies that offer low carbon products and make it fun and easy to do.

 

Read the original version of how to ‘Kick Your Carbon Habit’ from UNEP for World Environment Day here.

 

 

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1 Response

  1. Elizabeth says:

    I am disapppointed I have only just got this date. What about challenging local councils to make a gesture- maybe no cars to the Civic Centre on Friday June 6th?

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