How to Reduce Your Carbon Footprint: 4 Simple Methods Everyone Can Use

Posted by Wayne Francis on 10th Feb 2020

As 2020 began with extreme weather conditions, conversations geared towards the lack of action by governments to curb climate change were on everyone's lips. Government officials continue to set the bar low or fall short of their goals, but you don't have to!

If you want to make a difference, then you've likely wondered how to reduce your carbon footprint. Read on for some tips on how you can reduce your impact on the environment, or use the carbon footprint calculator to see how your household measures up.

1. Ditch Mass Consumerism

Mass consumerism -- it's both a mindset and a lifestyle. It means living in such a way that the ultimate goal is consuming. Sound familiar?

In modern times, we devote the majority of our energy, time, and effort into getting more resources. Even when we get what we want, it still is never enough. Something inside us drives us to continue seeking out more.

There is good news, though.

You don't have to live a materialistic and consumerism-based life. To break free, you need to understand that happiness is not tied to what we own.

2. Composting Your Trash

If you could cut your waste in half, then wouldn't you? There's a very easy way to achieve this goal -- start composting!

Here's how:

Get a bin and line it with cardboard, dead leaves, or topsoil
Start throwing your plant-based trash in the compost bin
Mix the compost about twice a week

Start turning your trash into organic fertilizer today!

3. Used or Refurbished Products

While it's fantastic to ditch a consumerism mindset, you'll still need to buy products at times. When a need does pop up, consider buying used or refurbished products rather than new ones.

This tip doesn't apply to all products. Some used products, like electronics, are a great option for re-use. Others, like dish washing liquid or tissues, are things you shouldn't feel guilty about buying new. However, even with these products, smart, responsible, environmentally friendly options should be considered.

You can make a huge impact and reduce a lot of waste by buying a refurbished laptop or phone. What is a refurbished laptop? It's a laptop that has a prior owner, but it's restored to like-new status.

4. Analyse Your Impact

It will be difficult to reduce your carbon footprint if you aren't even sure what it is. Your carbon footprint describes your individual impact on the environment. Find out how you stack up by using a carbon footprint calculator online.

Once you see your results, you can identify what areas could use improvement.

Do you travel more than you need to? Are there ways you could reduce your family's water waste?

Your impact matters, so use your analysis to think of new ways to improve our environment.