What is your Carbon Footprint?
Let ProLux Energy walk you through it
There is much talk about alternative sources of energy, “going green,” and our carbon footprint. Just what do these terms mean and what effect do we have on them?
Alternative sources of energy can be as simple as harnessing our natural renewable energy including wind and solar power, hydroelectric, and bioenergy; however, these fossil fuels are long-standing non-renewable sources.
“Going green” is a term that refers to making choices by reducing the negative impact on the environment. It is the way we care for the earth and its resources. For example: When we use electricity for lights, appliances or other electronic devices, we don’t create carbon dioxide. But the power plants that produce that electricity do, by using coal that emits carbon dioxide to create that energy and power these plants. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) says these electricity plants create the largest carbon footprints and the most amount of carbon dioxide. This will have far-reaching repercussions in our lifetime and those lives who come after.
Are we responsible users? Do we look for ways to preserve the beauty we enjoy around us or better yet, improve where we can. We can make small changes that, collectively, have a big impact on the environment in an eco-friendly way. Below are a few examples of “going green” and reducing our carbon footprint:
- Recycle all products that can be recycled
- Use cloth bags instead of paper or plastic
- Walk or bike instead of driving
- Refurb and reuse products
- Compost your household food scraps
- Do not litter
- Buy used products
- Pick up yours and other’s trash
“Going green” can be a gradual process as it’s difficult to change all of our habits at once. However, even small changes can make a positive impact on the environment.
Your carbon footprint is the amount of greenhouse gases you produce through your actions and how much energy you use. It’s measured in terms of carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane that is released into the atmosphere. For example, greenhouse gas emissions are produced from heating our homes through burning oil or gas, burning gasoline when we drive our cars, or using electricity generated from natural gas, oil and coal which can vary by where you live and your personal habits and choices. The United States has one of the highest carbon footprint rates in the world; 16 tons. On average, the global rate is closer to 4 tons.
So, how can we begin to reduce our carbon footprint? Some easy examples are by:
- Harnessing renewable power such as solar
- Weatherizing your home
- Using clean heating and cooling
- Using alternate low-carbon transportation
- Using all-electric energy savings appliances
- Not idling our cars for long periods
- Walking or biking where possible
- Purchasing electric tools for the yard
- Reducing and composting food waste
The larger our carbon footprint the more difficult it is on the environment.
ProLux Energy can show you how to help reduce your carbon footprint and contribute positively with a top-tier solar system. Call 217.846.8056 or support@proluxenergy.com.
Remember…tread lightly where we can, when we can. Let’s keep the path less traveled, that way.