Climate protection in everyday life: simple tips
Climate protection in everyday life: simple tips
climate protection is a topic that affects us all. The current data and forecasts of the world climate indicate constant warming of our planet, which has a significant impact on people and nature. It is therefore more relevant than ever to make our contribution to climate protection. In this article we show some simple tips on how to make a difference in everyday life and reduce your CO2 footprint.
How does our everyday life affect the climate?
CO2 footprint
The CO2 footprint is a measure of the amount of greenhouse gases that a person, a product or service generates in the course of their lives. This includes all emissions caused by production, use and disposal. According to data from the Federal Environment Agency, the annual average CO2 footprint in Germany was 11.7 tons per person in 2020. Since this is far above the goal of the United Nations for a sustainable future, we should all search for ways to reduce this value.
The main cause of emissions
In a typical household, the main sources for CO2 emissions are heating, electricity use, mobility (especially private car use and air travel), nutrition and consumer goods. By consciously making decisions in these areas, we can significantly reduce our CO2 footprint.
energy use in the household
heating and electricity
According to the Federal Environment Agency, Heizen is the largest source of CO2 emissions in German households. The use of green electricity and efficient heat use can significantly reduce CO2 emissions.
tips for everyday life
- switch off heaters in unused rooms and generally turn the heating down when you leave the house.
- Exchange your old light bulbs through energy-efficient LED lamps.
- Try to use electrical devices only if they are really needed-do not leave any devices in standby mode.
Mobility
Our way of moving has a great impact on our climate. Many of our trips are short and could be carried out by bike, on foot or by public transport.
tips for everyday life
- use the bike or walk on foot for short journeys - this not only saves CO2, but also keeps fit.
- use public transport or form carpools for longer journeys.
- If you have a car, choose a model with less fuel consumption or even better an electrical or hybrid vehicle when changing the vehicle.
diet
Our eating habits have a significant impact on the climate. Industrial agriculture is a large source of CO2 emissions and other greenhouse gases.
tips for everyday life
- Reduce the consumption of meat and dairy products. Instead, try vegetable alternatives.
- buy locally and seasonally. These products usually have a smaller CO2 footprint because they need to be transported less.
- Try to avoid food waste. Plan your meals and use leftovers.
consumer behavior
Our consumer behavior affects the climate to a considerable extent. The production of consumer goods and their transport create considerable amounts of CO2.
tips for everyday life
- Do you buy less, but higher quality products that last longer.
- Try to buy second-hand clothing or exchange things.
- Repair broken things instead of replacing them.
FAZIT
Every little action can make a contribution to climate protection. The tips mentioned above are simple measures that each of us can tackle. It is not about making everything perfect, but making conscious decisions and the desire to preserve our planet for future generations to integrate into our everyday life. Because when many people take many small steps, they move a lot together.