Low carbon lifestyle

Global warming can lead to irreversible changes in the delicate balance that exists in the planet’s climate and life systems. It is a growing crisis with large scale implications on mortality, health, economics and security. All of us will be affected, irrespective of economic status or nationality. We have still not reached a point of no return and the most dangerous climate changes can still be avoided. We need to make climate friendly choices in everyday actions in the use of electrical appliances, transport, paper, water, etc. A low-carbon lifestyle reduces greenhouse gases and saves resources. Many people don't know a lot about climate change, but then there are some people who know but who don't care. It is reported that the 2015 UN Climate Change Conference (COP 21 or CMP 11) held in Paris, France, has emitted about 300,000 tons of CO2.

1. Consume less energy from fossil fuels (petroleum, gas and coal).
2. Use energy efficient lights, fans and other electrical appliances.
3. Turn off lights and fans when not in use.
4. Switch from a desktop to a laptop.
5. Go out for a couple of hours everyday instead of watching TV or computer.
6. Avoid using hot water, wherever possible.
7. Go solar where ever possible.
8. Buy clothes when it is a must.
9. Choose cotton and silk clothes. Organic cotton is even better.
10. Donate unwanted clothes to charities.
11. Buy local food products.
12. Choose organic and seasonal foods.
13. Avoid meat and dairy.
14. Use organic foods to reduce use of fertilizers and pesticides.
15. Don't waste food, energy, water etc.
16. Select natural products with less processing and packaging.
17. Eat more vegetables and fruits.
18. Travel only when it is absolutely necessary.
19. Avoid car usage where ever you can.
20. Use small and fuel efficient cars.
21. Drive car in a fuel efficient manner.
22. Use public transportation or shared vehicles.
23. Walk or cycle over short distances.
24. Avoid air travel.
25. Never travel by business class or first class.
26. Travel by direct flights, as far as possible.
27. Travel by train for over night journeys.
28. Use video conferencing and avoid long distance journeys.
29. Use paper only when it is a must.
30. Plant trees.
31. Conserve water. Use no more than 10 liters for bathing.
32. Harvest rain water.
33. Never use single use plastic carry bags, water bottles, teacups etc.
34. Ensure used plastics are disposed off for recycle/reuse.
35. Stop dying hair and other body lotions.
36. Buy only essentials.
37. Be low on consumption.
38. Repair and postpone replacements.
39. Eliminate unnecessary items in every aspect of living.

Individual efforts may seem like drops in the ocean. The impacts from the positive changes in lifestyles by millions of people will make significant contributions towards a more climate friendly planet. 

Could you live a low carbon life? Meet the people who already are. 

Whatever you do may seem insignificant to you, 

but it is most important you do it - Mahatma Gandhi

The difference between what we do and what we are capable of doing

would suffice to solve most of the world's problems - Mahatma Gandhi