As the @EPA argues, “Many of our daily activities cause emissions of greenhouse gases. For example, we produce greenhouse gas emissions from burning gasoline when we drive, burning oil or gas for home heating, or using electricity generated from coal, natural gas, and oil.” In fact, almost everything you do in your home adds to your carbon footprint.
Though it’s impossible for all of us to completely reduce our carbon footprints down to zero, there are things we can do to sequester our impact on the environment – from making our homes more energy efficient to altering our daily habits.
What is a carbon footprint?
Your carbon footprint refers to the amount of CO2 that’s released into the atmosphere as a result of your daily activities. Every time you drive your car, turn on the heating, use your oven, watch TV, take a flight, or do anything else that requires energy, carbon dioxide is released as a consequence.
Calculating your carbon footprint
In order to calculate your carbon footprint, you’ll need to monitor how much energy your household consumes. Take a look at how much gas and electricity you use every month and then go online and input the information into a carbon footprint calculator. This will give you an indication of how much energy you’re using and could indicate areas where you can potentially reduce your energy consumption and cut your carbon footprint.
Cutting your home’s carbon footprint
One of the best ways to reduce your home’s carbon footprint is to invest in insulation. Modern windows and doors can dramatically cut the amount of energy required to heat your home, while loft and cavity wall insulation can also have a big impact. This is especially true in period properties where the original windows and doors may be old and draughty.
Other steps you can take include switching your old light bulbs for modern energy efficient alternatives, turning down your thermostat, and encouraging all the members of your household to turn lights and appliances off when they leave a room. It may also be worth switching to a provider that gets their energy from renewable sources, that way any electricity you do use will have less of an impact on the environment.
If you’re thinking about replacing your windows and doors and making your home more energy efficient, we can help. Take a look around our site today to find out more.