Source: Richie Southerton

6. Climate change


6.3 What you can do

There are lots of ways we can reduce the amount of emissions we create. While many climate change impacts are unavoidable given the amount of greenhouse gases already in the atmosphere, reducing emissions today will minimise the impacts of climate change for future generations.

This picture shows how much you can reduce your personal carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2-e) emissions each year by changing your daily practices. Source: Collated by Sarah Boddington and Dr Rebecca Colvin.

Here are some other things you can try:

Around the home you can:

  • Reduce stand-by power (keep appliances that need constant power connected to one plug, and anything else to another that you can switch off at the wall).
  • Remove one globe from multi-globe fittings, and turn off all lights when not in use.
  • Put on a jumper when it gets cold and turn down your thermostat.
  • Reduce shower time, install a water-efficient showerhead, and fix dripping taps.
  • Speak with your family about installing solar panels and ensuring your home appliances are energy efficient (the more stars the better).
  • Draught-proof your house by using door snakes, installing insulation, and double-glazed windows.
  • Compost unused food – up to one-third of the waste in garbage bins is food, which produces greenhouse gases if sent to landfill.

When shopping you can:

  • Buy clothes from op-shops so there are no new greenhouse gas emissions from manufacturing, and repair rather than replace damaged clothing (see Circular economy and waste).
  • Buy local food, as it generates fewer travel-related emissions.
  • Buy less processed food.
  • Avoid excessive packaging.
  • Don’t buy unnecessary items; make a shopping list.

At school you can:

  • Keep doors and windows closed when heaters are running.
  • Plant trees, which absorb carbon dioxide from the air.
  • Set up an environment committee and undertake a school energy audit.
  • Walk, ride your bike, or use public transport to get to school.
  • Aim for a ‘waste-free’ lunchbox.

The Sustainable Schools Program provides free support to ACT schools to improve sustainability on campus. Visit their website to find out how you can get your school involved today!