The Worlds Energy Crisis – What Can You Do?
In the past few years, we have heard of the lowering levels of energy all around the globe. Every country, every business and every nation has been affected in some way for the current demand of energy. Gas prices have jumped to record highs of $6/gallon, which unfortunately is only the tip of the iceberg. The earth has suffered a great deal as a result of our increased waste of non-renewable resources. What can you do as one person to help reduce global warming and how we can help reverse the drain we are facing with resources?
We often feel powerless when it comes to the world’s energy crisis, believing that there was never enough that an individual could do to make even the slightest difference. Remember this: Collectively, we can make a powerful difference. Collectively, we have all contributed to the crisis we are in today, and together we can pull back and make significant changes for the future.
We have gathered some lifestyle changes for you to glance over that could definitely help create a better world for future generations.
1. Read e-news. Think about this for a second…how many trees are manufactured on a DAILY basis to print newspapers, gazettes and magazines? Try subscribing to an online newspaper. Spare a few trees and still stay informed of the daily events around the world.
2. Transportation. Another easy fix. Think about the congestion on highways and city streets filling the air with carbon dioxide. Consider riding with a few buddies to work or even riding your bicycle. Even if you cut out driving at least once or twice a week, you’ll be making more of a difference than you could even fathom.
3. Cut down on you’re A/C usage. Not only would you be helping the environment, but this easy change could cut how much you spend on gas. If you are going under 40 mph, put your windows down. You will honestly burn less fuel. If you are going over 45 mph though, A/C will burn less fuel.
4. Don’t drive upset. As silly as this sounds, you tend to burn up more than 50% of your fuel caused by that lead foot on the gas and breaks. I know, sometimes those office hours are very stressful, but be aware of your mood when you get into your car. Not only will you save a little extra gas money, but you will be more aware of your surroundings.
5. Recycle!! How many times a day to you see signs to recycle, recycling bins or signs to conserve paper, plastic and glass? It’s all over the place. Plastic is the largest culprit of harmful junk. Most plastics are non-biodegradable. The environment cannot naturally break it down. Try to avoid using plastic bags in the grocery store. If you can’t, then recycle them or reuse them as often as you can.
6. Plant a tree. One tree can breathe in close to 1 ton of carbon dioxide in its lifetime. Plant one in yours! It’s an easy process and has more significant benefits than we realize.
- Avoid harmful products. Look around your grocery store next time you’re shopping. Look for the “greener” alternatives rather than spending more money on name brand products that are continuing to harm our environment.
- Educate others! Start right at home with your own family. Help the younger generation come into a healthier planet by teaching them healthier lifestyles.