Climate change mitigation is a big task. Achieving the goals of climate change regulation requires that all the countries of our planet work together and collaborate.  Despite the fact that climate regulation is a very big endeavor, each and every one of us can contribute. This post presents several easy ways to reduce your own input into climate change.

1. Stand against methane emissions.

Methane is a highly-potent greenhouse gas. The greenhouse potential of methane is 84. That means that it is 84 times more dangerous than carbon dioxide, which has a greenhouse potential of 1. Some research has shown that methane emissions account for approximately 25% of the changes to the climate of our planet. One of the processes leading to methane-emissions is hydraulic fracturing, therefore, many countries now have 0-methane emission requirements for newly-developed oil and gas wells. Reducing methane emissions will be a very big step towards controlling the climate change. Even though each one of us cannot reduce methane emissions personally, we can share our opinions with the corresponding institutions. Requests from the population do influence the decisions taken by the governments, if these requests are plentiful enough. Sending such message will help the countries that do not yet have 0-methane emission requirements to implement those.

2. Think about your commute.

CO2 emissions caused by transport vehicles are almost as significant as the emissions caused by oil and gas industries. Each of us can take some simple steps to reduce our own CO2-emissions. That does not necessarily mean that you always have to walk from now on. If you don’t have to travel far – try cycling. Alternatively, using public transport greatly reduces the emissions as well, if you compare it to using your personal car. When traveling long-distance, choose for buses or, even better, trains, If that’s really not an option – consider flying with airlines that provide options for CO2-compensation, or find an independent company that would do the same for you. Usually such companies will help you to calculate how much CO2 you need to be compensating and how much it would cost. Moreover, often you can even choose to which project your money will go.

3. Use less energy at home.

This is actually much less difficult than it sounds. Several simple steps allow you to use much less energy without noticing any difference. And you will save money as well! Firstly, change to energy-efficient light-bulbs if you haven’t already done so. Secondly, do not keep your electronic devices and appliances plugged in. Even though you think they are not consuming any energy – they are, and the yearly values are quite significant.

4. Consider changing your diet.

Yes, eating less meat seems like a horrible idea to some of us, however, it has not only environmental, but also health benefits. Even if you reduce your meat consumption only by a little bit, it will help, especially if you stick to this new routine! Buying local produce also helps, as in this case your products do not travel far to reach you. Therefore, their commute does not result in additional CO2 emissions.

Read our next post to find out more ways to reduce your personal influence on the climate!