Climate change has the potential to affect the way we live and work. This rapid change in weather across the world can also damage the environment and wildlife we enjoy. This guide will teach you how to reduce your impact on the environment and climate change.

The best way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions is by cutting down your overall energy emissions. If you are building a new house, you can reduce the amount of heating your home needs by orienting your house in such a way that it is warmed by the sun. If this is not an option, try wearing more layers of clothing instead of turning the heat up. You may want to switch to gas heating as it produces much lower levels of emissions compared to standard electric heaters. Make sure that your thermostat is set to 68 degrees or less. 5 to 10% of the energy required to heat your home can be saved for every 1 degree you turn the heater down. Make sure you only heat the rooms you are using and close off doors to keep the heat in. You should also make sure that your heaters are well maintained.

For those houses that have air conditioners, a quarter of the energy used is by cooling. Keeping the sun out can reduce the amount of cooling required. Use drapes, shades, shutters and/or vegetation to shade windows and walls. Sometimes you may only need to use a fan. These are often much cheaper and use much less energy.

What you eat can also largely impact green house gas emissions. Try to eat less red meat, as large animals produce a lot of methane, which effects climate change. You can also buy locally grown and produced food. Ingredients that have been acquired from long distances away will have large fossil fuel impacts due to transportation. Many people are now eating those fruits and vegetables that are in season. Fruits and vegetables that are out of season often need to be transported long distances or have been refrigerated for long periods of time. Local food not only helps the environment but your community as well. You may also wish to reduce the amount of packaging in the food products that you buy as the packaging process produces green house gases.

Driving less is a great way of reducing your carbon footprint. Vehicles are large contributors to green house gas emissions. You can plan ahead and find the quickest route possible and avoid heavy traffic. You may also be able to carpool, take a taxi, walk, cycle or take public transport. If you are purchasing a new vehicle make sure that it is fuel efficient, this will also reduce your fuel costs! You should also make sure your car is well maintained and serviced.

Although many people feel they cannot help prevent climate change themselves, these are just some of the few ways you can make a difference right in your own home. Remember to keep all appliances well maintained, buy locally and drive less and you will be on your way to helping the environment.

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