CO2 Reduction

Carbon Dioxide Reduction

Carbon dioxide (CO2) is one of the gases in our atmosphere that absorbs infrared radiation (heat) emitted by the Earth’s surface and helps to stop this heat escaping directly into space. This natural process known as the ‘Greenhouse effect’ keeps the Earth warm enough to support life and oceans of liquid water.

The natural low levels of CO2 have been greatly enhanced by the activities of humans from the start of the Industrial Revolution.  In the late 18th century, CO2 levels were around 280 parts per million (ppm).  As of 2024, CO2 levels exceed 420 ppm.  This significant increase is attributed to human activities, mainly from burning fossil fuels (coal, oil & natural gas).

Elevated CO2 levels enhance the natural greenhouse effect, leading to an overall rise in global temperatures and massive impacts on our climate and ocean acidification.

CO2 is the second most abundant greenhouse gas after water vapour but is the most significant because once it is added to the atmosphere it hangs around, for a long time.  According to NASA between 300 to 1,000 years, which means that the carbon dioxide you add to the atmosphere today could last for another 14 to 15 human lifetimes! 

(Human lifetimes of 70 years approximately 14 to 15 would fit in 1,000 years.)

Reducing the amount of carbon dioxide we emit into our atmosphere involves making behavioural changes in various aspects of our lifestyle and consumption patterns. Anything that requires energy has a CO2 footprint, so we need to think about this carefully, such as:

Conserve Water:

  • Always be mindful of your water usage and keep hot water to a minimum to reduce the energy required.
  • Use water saving tools where possible e.g. toilet flushing, rainwater storage etc.

Transportation:

  • Use buses, trains, and trams instead of driving.
  • Carpool – share rides with others to reduce the number of vehicles on the road.
  • Consider using electric or hybrid vehicles.
  • Cycling and walking is always better for short distances and can be a healthy and eco-friendly choice.

Energy Use:

  • Try to minimise the energy you get from fossil fuels.  Switch to renewable energy if possible. 
  • Have solar or wind for your home if possible.
  • Use appliances that have high energy efficiency rating.
  • Adjust your heating to use less energy.
  • Insulate your home to improve energy efficiency.
  • Turn off and unplug anything that consumes energy when not in use:

Diet:

  • Livestock and farming generally, produces a significant volume of greenhouse gases. A plant-based diet is better for your carbon footprint. 
  • Reduce meat consumption, especially red meat, as this has a higher CO2 footprint.
  • Use local and seasonal foods to reduce transportation emissions.

Reduce Waste:

  • Make shopping lists, plan meals and store food properly to minimise waste.
  • Recycle materials like paper, plastic, and glass.
  • Reuse items whenever possible.
  • Compost organic waste to reduce landfill emissions.

Consumer Choices:

  • Purchase sustainable products with minimal packaging made from sustainable materials.
  • Second-hand Goods. Buy used items instead of new ones to reduce manufacturing emissions.

Support Eco-Friendly Brands:

  • Choose companies with sustainable practices and products.

Home and Lifestyle:

  • Use sustainable and Eco-Friendly building Materials for home improvements.
  • Create green spaces – plant trees and maintain gardens to absorb CO2.

Offsetting Carbon Emissions:

  • Support programs that offset emissions by funding renewable energy projects, reforestation, and other environmental initiatives.