What can be Done to Reduce CO2 Emissions?

Around the world, people generate tremendous amounts of CO₂, which many scientists believe to be a major factor in global warming. Producing energy to power the many devices and processes people use on a daily basis uses great quantities of CO₂. Fossil fuels are burned to generate the heat and energy for most buildings, and this burning releases much CO₂ into the atmosphere. If the scientists are correct, people must reduce CO₂ emissions in any way that they can to slow or reverse this process that could be causing widespread global warming. There are many things that people can do in their homes, on the road, and out in the world to reduce CO₂ emissions and work toward a better, cleaner atmosphere.

People can take many steps at home to reduce energy consumption and, consequently, to reduce CO₂ emissions. One simple step is to replace simple incandescent light bulbs with compact fluorescent light bulbs(CFL). A CFL uses about 60% less energy than a normal incandescent light. Depending on use, this can equal several hundred pounds of CO₂ not being released into the atmosphere each year. Another simple way to reduce energy consumption and CO₂ emissions at home is to unplug unused electronics, as they draw energy even when powered down and not in use.

Even changing one's diet can reduce CO₂ emissions. Buying food locally is better than buying food that has traveled hundreds or thousands of miles, as a great deal of CO₂ is released during the transportation process. Fresh foods are better than frozen foods because it takes a great deal of energy and, consequently, a great deal of CO₂ to keep foods frozen. It is also good to avoid foods with excessive packaging, as such packaging becomes garbage that results in more CO₂ in the atmosphere when it is disposed of.

Cars, trucks, airplanes, and other motorized vehicles are responsible for a significant percentage of the CO₂ in the atmosphere. There are many ways to reduce CO₂ emissions that can save money and the atmosphere. Carpooling or using public transportation cuts down on the number of cars on the road and, consequently, on the amount of CO₂ that finds its way into the atmosphere. When one needs to travel only a short distance, he can get in shape, save money, and help the atmosphere by walking or biking instead of driving. When driving is necessary, one can make sure that his car is well-tuned as this improves energy efficiency and gas mileage.

It takes more than one person to reduce CO₂ emissions. Those who are truly passionate about doing so can work to promote awareness of energy-saving methods. They can also write to congressmen and vote for those who have particularly green agendas. Those in managerial positions can encourage employees to use less energy in the workplace. All of these have the potential to greatly reduce CO₂ emissions and, hopefully, slow the process of global warming.