There are two complementary ways to reduce fossil fuels through both personal and advocacy actions. Some are simple and most people can engage in these actions. Others are less so, and your engagement will depend on where you live, how you live, and what you can afford. Here are some ways you can do both:
Personal Actions:
1) Homes (homes account for about 13 percent of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions)
- Check to see if clean energy is available from your utility
- Install solar panels on your home or buy into a community solar program
- Install more insulation in your home and seal up leaky doors and windows.
- When you need to replace appliances, switch to electric ones that are highly rated by Energy Star and be sure to take advantage of the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Tax] Credit provided through the IRA, which will refund you up to $2,000 per year for certain energy-efficient appliances.
2) Travel (Depending on how much you travel and particularly if you need to fly for your
work, your travel carbon footprint can be significant.)
- When your current car needs to be replaced, consider a hybrid or electric car. Prices for both have come down dramatically over the past few years and there is a growing used- electric car market.
- Consider if you’re in a community where public transportation is an option and use it as often as you can.
- With the advent of electric bikes and scooters, this low-carbon option is available in many cities and towns.
- Avoid airline travel if possible, especially short flights. Flying by jet leaves a very large carbon footprint
Systemic Actions:
- Advocating for public policies that support renewable energy and energy efficiency policies (and against policies that continue to promote fossil fuel use and expansion) is an important way to reduce your own carbon footprint.
- Register to vote and look for candidates that share your values and your commitment to the environment.
- Oppose fossil fuel projects in your area.
- Urge local officials to invest in green infrastructure including in electric vehicles and public transportation.
- Powerful interests are opposing electrification of our cities, towns and infrastructure. Attend meetings where these issues are discussed and make your voice heard.