With the heat in full effect, it brings the perfect opportunity to evaluate and celebrate the green air choices we’ve made to improve air quality in our region. Remember, ozone season extends until November, and maintaining these sustainable practices year-round is essential for improving air quality. This includes choosing greener transportation options, reducing energy consumption at home, and being mindful of the choices we make when outdoors. Stay tuned for tips on reducing your carbon footprint during summer activities!
Eco-Friendly Camping
Camping is a great getaway from the busy life, but it’s also important to be mindful of our choices before and while on the road. Before hitting the road, make sure to service your car regularly. A well-maintained vehicle runs more efficiently and produces fewer emissions. Additionally, keeping your tires properly inflated improves fuel efficiency and safety on the road.
While camping, be diligent about trash pick-up and disposal. Remember to take everything you brought when leaving the campsite to ensure proper cleanup. Dispose of your trash properly by recycling when possible. When starting a fire, keep it small and never leave the fire unattended.
Consider Local Getaways
Road trips are great during this time, but if you want to be conscious of your emission output, consider traveling locally. Exploring the region can be just as exciting and is much better for the environment.
A fun local option is getting a day pass at a nearby hotel that offers pool and spa services. This makes a perfect family weekend getaway allowing you to reduce your emission output while still enjoying the hot summer days by a pool.
Adopt Sustainable BBQ Practices
For eco-friendly barbecuing, consider using propane or electric grills instead of charcoal as they produce fewer emissions. Check out this carbon footprint comparison study for a more in-depth review of why propane is a cleaner option! Avoid disposable plates and opt for reusable or biodegradable ones to minimize waste. Using biodegradable products when barbecuing can significantly reduce landfill waste.
Implement Energy-Saving and Cooling Tips
To stay cool while being energy efficient, use blackout curtains to keep your home cool and reduce the need for extra air conditioning. Avoid cooking hot meals like stews or dishes that require using the oven as they can also heat your home. Unplug electronics that are not in use to reduce the energy demand and opt for energy-efficient appliances to reduce electricity consumption. When you’re not home, turn up the A/C to save energy and consider installing solar panels to use renewable energy to further reduce your carbon footprint.
By making these small changes, we can collectively make a significant impact on air quality and reduce our carbon footprint. Let’s continue to make green choices throughout the year and encourage others to do the same. Every action counts when it comes to preserving our environment for future generations.