Many people around the world have been talking about extreme weather. The summers are hotter than normal and the winters are worse than they have been in years. According to a recent National Climate Assessment report, all these weather extremes have caused people many health issues such as respiratory illnesses, kidney conditions, and heart problems. The goal of the report is to show that something must be done about these climate changes. Researchers have found that carbon pollution is to blame, but it’s up to us to reduce it. Power plants are the largest source of carbon pollution. While the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) plans to discuss imposing limits on power plants in June, there’s something people can do to lower the amount power plants produce.
It Starts with Us
The more power plants must run, the more pollution they produce. Power plants generate electricity. When people reduce the amount of electricity they use, the power plants decrease the amount they generate. This leads to a reduction in carbon pollution.
The best way to reduce the amount of electricity you use is to educate yourself. The following electricity saving tips can help you do your part in reducing harmful carbon pollution.
Turn off electronics when they are not in use.
Turn off lights when you leave a room.
Don’t let the water run.
Carpool, ride a bike or walk whenever possible.
Install residential solar panels on your property.
Use ENERGY STAR appliances.
Turn the heat thermostat down in the winter.
Turn the air conditioner thermostat up in the summer.
Increase the internal temperature of your fridge to 45 degrees and the freezer to 0 degrees.
Use LED light bulbs instead of incandescent bulbs.
Reduce the temperature of your water heater.
Only run the dishwasher and washing machine when they are full.
Dry your clothes on a laundry line.
These are just some of the many ways you can cut down on the amount of electricity you use each day. These are great ways to get started, and as you learn more ways to do it, you’ll be helping out the climate more and more.
Get Off the Grid, Go Solar
If we become energy-independent, we won’t have to rely on the burning of fossil fuels. So much environmental damage has been done by the pollution society has created, we need to push even harder to reverse it. Going solar is one way you can help make a difference AND cut your household costs. If you’re in Glendale, CA, or the surrounding area, and you’ve been thinking about going solar, get a free solar panel quote from Solar Optimum today! It doesn’t hurt to at least find out how much it would cost; you are under no obligation.
