6 Very Achievable Ways to Reduce Carbon Footprint

As of May 5th, 2011 there was well over 6.9 billion people that inhabit the earth. Each one of them is consuming products at their own respectable rates. Some people are mindful of their carbon footprint while some consume freely at will. There are many ways to reduce carbon footprint, some of which will be shared with you in this article. First, allow me to briefly state just what a carbon footprint is, however.

This type of human footprint is simply a calculation of the amount of greenhouse gases each individual (or event) emits in a period of time. These emissions, particularly carbon dioxide, are gauged because they it's presence is detrimental to our atmosphere. Whether or not most will find humor (i.e, Al Gore) in this topic or not, the act is the subject is real. Though helping may seem like a steep hill to climb, we all can play our parts to combat the situation.

This is one the most obvious ways to reduce carbon footprint.. The common problem I find here is that while many resources are available, most are just too lazy to take advantage. If you're now starting to take this matter seriously I urge you to find your local directory and research what's in your town.

There is a public library in my city that provides several drop off bins for many items. Cardboard, bottles, cans, and even junk mail is on the list. Several grocery stores also provide drop off points for the public. Some municipalities offer curb side pick up for an additional cost. Take the initiative and look these up.

If you're not yet that motivated to dive right into the recycling crew, simply reuse! Reducing your carbon footprint can draw out the creativity in you. After you finish the gallon pails of ice cream don't discard it. These can easily become containers for potted plants.

Drill holes in the bottom, of course. As for the little cups of yogurt, use those to start seedlings. If you think they're eyesores just decorate them. It can even become an activity for you and the kids. Jars of baby food can also be reused as storage containers. Hardware, jewelry, coins; you name it! A lot of things from stores can be put back into commission as long as you be creative.

Try your best to do this, but if you cannot there are still ways to reduce carbon footprint. Always strive to take your own recyclable bags or get paper ones when you shop. I think of plastic bags as sort of a self-defeating purpose. The invention was to have a durable way to tote and transport things but they're almost indestructible.

It takes those innocent little grocery bags at least 85 years to degrade; and that's a generous understatement. If you must get these things at least extend their lives positively. Use them as trash can liners or gloves to police your dog's feces. That's another issue especially with your local waterways.

Roughly 70% of everything that ends up in a landfill can either be reused or recycled. Be very particular about what you push out front to the curb on "garbage" day. One of my favorite ways to reduce carbon footprint is via vermicomposting. This is the science of using worms to eat your trash. Delicious! Intrigued, yet? This is actually a gratifying way to rid your rubbish. You'll become the owner of very low maintenance pets and an extraordinary landscape. Here's one thing that I find to be very ironic. Everyone wants to have the proverbial yard, but no one wants to live in close proximity to a landfill. How come most would rather continue to send their garbage to a site than turn it into organic fertilizer to get the great yard? Just a thought.

If you're not yet ready to introduce worms in your life there is an alternative. You can reduce your carbon footprint by starting a compost without them. There are many ways to accomplish this. You can invest in a compost tumbler which are very convenient.

You can even make your own, although not as convenient. There are plenty of options but if you're limited on space try making a vermicompost bin. The benefits to the last two ways to reduce carbon footprint are immense. You increase land value by beautifying your gardens, and you'll be able to harvest much better fruits and vegetable.

This one will probably be the toughest for most to do. We live in a very car reliant society where people would rather drive a half of a mile than walk it. Great ways to reduce carbon footprint are car pooling to work and even making use of your bike. Pull it out of the garage, dust it off, and just ride down the street. There is a very fine line between convenience and obesity.

The weight loss industry takes advantage of this. If most will cut their vehicle usage in half we will have a much cleaner environment and healthier bodies. If you're just way too spoiled by your car be smart on the road. Don't punch the gas off of red lights and stop signs. Also, pre plan your errands so that you're making smart efficient routes.

These ways to reduce carbon footprint can be a small start for you.  Your collective efforts will go a long way, though.  I really want you to take greenhouse gas emissions seriously.  If you have yet to see the documentary, The Inconvenient Truth, rent it!  If you don't care the least you can do is be responsible for the future of your family tree.  Their problems will come because of our carelessness.  The main ingredient here is taking initiative, but you have just been educated on reducing your carbon footprint.  Make the effort and show that you care.