It turns out there are many simple ways to help combat the effects of climate change, such as fixing a simple leak, installing good insulation, using energy efficient LED light bulbs, and using public transportation. The simplest way to put it is to fly less, drive less, and waste less. One of the biggest causes of greenhouse gas emissions is airplanes. As a human population, the best thing we can do is take fewer airplane rides. This mentality can extend to general transportation, instead of using a car, we should use public transportation or carpool to reduce the number of emissions created. There are other ways to take more of an initiative to help reduce and prevent the effects of climate change. Doing these simple tasks will not only help you save time and money, but it can help the world fight a battle that we all are a part of.
2 Responses
Transportation is responsible for nearly 28% of greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S.. Airplanes account for roughly 12% of the 28% of all transportation-related greenhouse gas emissions. Foregoing fossil fuels should be one of the 1st challenges the U.S. should attempt to face in order to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. It is quite a daunting challenge since we heavily rely on the burning of oil, gas, coal, and petroleum based products in our every day lives. Specifically, finding a way to reduce the use of coal (since it supplies almost half of the electricity used in the United States. More funds should be delegated to research in order to formulate new and renewable sources of fuel that is environmentally friendly.
People in general should also take into account their personal habits and attempt to reduce consumption in their every day lives. For instance, using reusable totes that are becoming increasingly popular in supermarkets reduces the amount of plastic bags used. When shopping, buying in bulk can also reduce the amount of plastic and other types of packaging consumed. Even making smarter decisions when purchasing appliances that are certified by the EPA’s EnergyStar program can help decrease human impact and slowly reverse climate change.
I do believe you are correct in what you said. My only concern is the viability of it. Let’s look at the main point of “fly less, drive less, waste less”.
Using my personal experience and taking in some from others, it seems that to many people flying is a luxury. Some people may only fly three times over twenty years. Asking them to cut back on travel may seem a bit rude to them. On the other hand, many people fly across the country of work several times a month. Even though this is not great for the climate, we cannot ask them to not do their job; everyone needs to preform to what their job asks of them.
Driving less is much more appealing. When moving into a city, using public transportation is more environmental friendly and its cheaper than paying for gas. But many people do not want to deal with public transportation at all. There are smells, dropped food/liquids, screamers, loud music, random temperature, delays, etc. Too many people will not give up convenience to help out the environment. Not to even mention the people who drive over an hour to work which may take up to three hours by public transportation.
The concept is correct and it is one that has been trying to go into full effect for a long time. Many are making strides to lessen the amount of waste they produce. However, for everyone to participate, an impactful incentive must be offered.