It’s that time of year when you’re probably thinking about changing personal habits or initiating positive change at home or school. Eating better, exercising more, spending less money are all classic new year resolutions for individuals, but these can also be applied to the world around us. Start 2024 the right way with these tips to help reduce your carbon footprint, or climate shadow (explained here) if you want to take things a step further.

1. Reduce your meat consumption: Animal agriculture is responsible for a significant amount of greenhouse gas emissions. By reducing your meat consumption, you can help reduce your carbon footprint. If you currently eat meat most days, consider starting with just a day or two meat-free. You don’t have to become a ‘level-5 vegan‘ but the reduction will help the planet and you’ll likely save money on the weekly grocery bill too.
   
2. Reduce your energy consumption: You can reduce your energy consumption by turning off lights and electronics when not in use, using energy-efficient appliances, and ensuring buildings are properly insulated. Air conditioning is one of the hungriest appliances in most homes and schools so always keep these units running at optimal temperatures and turn off when not needed. Any reduction will save energy and money. One way to take out the guess work is to monitor your energy data with the Solar Schools program.
   
3. Reduce your transportation emissions: You can get fit and reduce your transportation emissions by walking, biking, and/or taking public transportation instead of driving. If you’re not accustomed to cycling to work or school, ease into it by riding around on weekend adventures. Jetsetters and frequent flyers should always assess alternative modes of travel or communication when possible. Why create a few hundred kilograms of CO2 and waste a day jetlagged when a video call will suffice.
   
4. Reduce your water usage: You can reduce your water usage by taking shorter showers, fixing leaks, and using water-efficient appliances. The bonus? Shorter showers mean more time in your day and more money in your back pocket! If you’re really motivated why not try creating your own water saving devices like this year seven student.
   
5. Reduce your waste: You can reduce your waste by recycling, composting, and avoiding single-use plastics. Reconsider purchasing from companies who use excess plastic packaging and identify items around the house or classroom that can be bought in bulk to reduce landfill.

If you have more tips or suggestions, please let us know by emailing theteam@solarschools.net.