Reducing your carbon footprint is something that many people have heard about but have no idea how to effectively implement. We’ve taken a look at some easy ways you can effectively reduce your carbon footprint and have a big impact on how the environment is affected.
Invest In Higher Quality Goods
Buying quality goods is one of the easiest ways to reduce your carbon footprint. That cushion from K-mart might be $5 but what cost does it really come at? Think about who made it, how far that item has travelled, what materials it’s been made from and how long you expect it to last. Compare that to a local handmade cushion maker who might charge $30 for their cushions. Yes it might cost more, but it will also probably last a lot longer, and has been made from ethically sourced materials and for a fair wage.
Reduce Your Waste
Which leads us nicely into our second point – reduce your waste. Instead of buying cheap, mass-produced goods in an effort to save a few dollars, investing in quality goods will 9 times out of 10 mean they last a whole heap longer than cheaply made items. So instead of having to rebuy the same thing every year or two, spend a little more, get a great quality product and reduce the amount of stuff you clear out every year when you spring clean your house or that items falls apart and needs replacing.
Stop Buying Bottled Water
Bottled water is one of the top ways your carbon footprint can be significantly increased. By opting for tap water instead, you can not only save on the plastic waste but also the air miles that water has travelled to get to your glass. If you don’t like the taste of your tap water, invest in a great water filter which will still work out cheaper than always resorting to buying bottled water either for your home or when you are out and about.
Use Less Heating & Cooling
By simply adjusting your heating and cooling system by as little as 1 degree, you can make a huge dent in the carbon footprint of your household or office. It’s really easy to pop a jumper on instead of cranking the heating up in winter. In summer, keep your rooms cool by closing blinds during the day to avoid the room overheating and stick a fan on before you pump up the air con.
Choose Recycled Products
There are so many awesome products available these days, like these amazing Adidas shoes made from ocean plastic . A quick Google search for what you’re looking for plus the word ‘recycled’ will no doubt give you some great ideas and options which can help you reduce your carbon footprint.
We have some gorgeous suppliers on Known Effects who make stunning products from recycled materials.
Buy Local
By buying from a local supplier, whether it’s around the corner from your house or somewhere in Australia, you’ll be reducing your carbon footprint by actively choosing not to buy something that has to be imported from overseas. The further products have to travel, the bigger their carbon footprint – and by buying that item, you’re sending a message that you are happy to endorse that activity. Of course the more local you buy the smaller the carbon footprint but by sticking to Australian made products, you can effectively reduce your carbon footprint – all by making a conscious decision to shop local.
How do you help to minimise your carbon footprint? Let us know in the comments and share your tips!
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