Leave a Smaller Footprint

So how do we "reduce our footprint" ? Our actions actually create carbon dioxide emissions in two ways . Our primary footprint is the measurement of direct emissions we have some control over through our energy use. Our secondary footprint measures the emissions we indirectly contribute to through our purchases and service use.

Here are some ways to reduce your impact, you’ll get the idea.

Turn off anything not in use –tv, lights, computer, fan (including at work, in a hotel, leaving a public bathroom)

Don’t leave your car on when it’s not needed! …or your lawn mower, leaf blower, oven etc. Think of ways to use energy less. One day I’ll follow myself around and we can see how easy it is to overlook opportunities to cut our emissions.

Unplug-most electronics and household appliances continue to use some energy even when they’re “off’. Here's a great gadget that will help power down your appliances more easily.

Turn down your heat or air to the bare minimum you can tolerate

Use cold water rather than warm, warm rather than hot. Here's another great gadget - a shower head that slows to a trickle until your water heats up so you don't have to run it. Great for those slow to heat showers!

Coordinate errands to make less trips

Use public transportation, share rides, walk or bike whenever possible

Look for a green energy company in your area to purchase your electricity from. Many electric companies now have the option - go to your provider's online site to see what's available in your area.

Insulate your home, your heater and your pipes. Anything to reduce the energy used by your heating system

Reuse your water

Purchase energy efficient appliances when you need to replace

Regarding the secondary footprint, think of it this way. Say I buy a plastic tray of  apples at the grocery (I don’t understand why some stores package fruit this way, but they do). Not only have I purchased apples that have apparently been shipped in trucks from a distance instead of purchasing locally grown fruit, I’ve just quadrupled the greenhouse gases I’m supporting. The plastic (and the little cardboard piece under it) was made with materials that were shipped  to a processing plant, the plant added chemicals and used energy to create the plastic, then the plastic was likely shipped to another facility where the apples were wrapped.

I’ll be the first to admit I don’t live an emission free (or totally green) life. The point is not ot make yourself crazy or guilty over your lifestyle or purchases, but to be conscious of your choices and  do your best to keep looking for better alternatives to energy use!