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Act on CO2

Act on CO2

Global warming caused by human activities is one of the most serious threats to our planet’s future. The Earth’s average temperatures have already risen by 1.4 degrees Fahrenheit, and depending on human choices, will rise an additional 2.5 to 10 degrees in the future. Global warming has already caused rising sea levels, altered patterns of precipitation and changed ecosystems forever. If it continues, the results will be devastating for the planet’s people and environment.

Each year, the average person in the United Kingdom is responsible for emitting approximately 14 tons of greenhouse gases. Citizens can act on CO2 and reduce that number by about ten percent by making small but significant changes. For instance, sealing doors and increasing insulation can save 0.2 tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year. Turning the thermostat down just one degree saves the same amount, and replacing an old boiler with a new model can save 0.3 tons from entering the atmosphere each year.

Swapping halogen lights for fluorescent or LED lights is an easy way to act on CO2 that saves 0.1 tons of carbon dioxide a year, and using the washing machine and dishwasher only when full saves 0.1 tons per year. Allowing clothes to air dry instead of using a tumble dryer saves 0.1 tons per year.

Automobiles are a large source of greenhouse gas emissions. By cutting annual mileage in half, drivers can reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 0.7 tons a year. Carpoolers save 0.3 tons per year.

Food production is another important source of greenhouse gases. By adopting a vegan diet just three days a week, people can reduce their emission of carbon dioxide by 0.5 tons per year. Eating a vegetarian diet of unprocessed whole foods seven days a week saves the same amount. People that never buy processed foods save 0.2 tons of carbon dioxide from being emitted each year, and those that grow their own vegetables and fruits during the summer save 0.1 tons.

Governments can act on CO2 by reducing their dependency on fossil fuels and increasing the use of renewable energy sources instead. By increasing the use of solar panels, wind turbines, water wheels and biomass, countries can significantly reduce their greenhouse gas emissions every year and slow the pace of global warming.