Going Green Around The World
The climate crisis is one of the most pressing matters of today. With temperatures rising, species going extinct, and rising sea levels, the countries around the world are now more than ever turning towards the only solution that can save us: going green. Governments are now taking more stringent measures and are getting serious about the environment and their part in protecting it. Every day, more and more countries are working towards reducing their carbon footprint. In this article, we’ll explore the different ways that countries around the world are pursuing a green future, while also reducing their carbon emissions.
Understanding Carbon Emissions
Carbon emissions are produced by any activity that involves burning fossil fuels. This includes manufacturing, electricity production, transportation and logistics, and even our lifestyles in general. Carbon emissions, which are mostly made up of Carbon Dioxide (CO2) are known to be the main cause of global warming, the primary contributor to climate change. Typically, countries that have a higher GDP and population density tend to have a larger carbon footprint. According to the World Bank, the top 10 countries with the largest carbon emissions are: China, the US, India, Russia, Japan, Germany, South Korea, Iran, Saudi Arabia and Canada.
China’s Notable Progress In Reducing Carbon Emissions
Being the world’s leading producer of CO2, China is taking impressive strides in reducing its carbon footprint. It recently became the world’s largest producer of renewable energy, leading the world in clean energy. This is due to the country’s numerous wind, solar and nuclear power plant projects. It has also implemented a set of targets for its provinces, which requires that 65% of their energy comes from non-fossil fuel sources. Moreover, China is investing heavily in green transportation and has implemented incentives for electric cars in the country. It is also introducing policy targets aiming to provide access to clean cooking fuels to 85% of its population by 2021.
The US Making Change For A Greener Future
The US is taking active part in reducing its large carbon emissions by introducing initiatives on both the federal and state level. On the federal level, the Obama administration worked to decrease emissions through widespread strategies such as the Clean Power Plan, enforcing the production of more renewable energy sources, and even increasing vehicle mileage standards amongst other initiatives. On the state level, California has been a leader in the fight against climate change, with policies such as the 80% renewable energy by 2050, the Global Warming Solutions Act and its adoption of carbon markets amongst others.
Europe’s Commitment to Net-Zero Emissions
The European Union (EU) held a significant milestone at the Climate Change Conference in Madrid when the Union announced the goal of achieving net-zero emissions by the year 2050. To achieve this, it must reduce greenhouse gas emissions from all sectors, including energy production, forestry, building, and waste management. Some of the strategies introduced to advance the climate goals are introducing green taxes, increasing the number of electric and hybrid vehicles, providing incentives for renewable energy sources and green infrastructure, developing smarter energy systems, and introducing a low-carbon economy.
Other Countries Fighting Climate Change
Other countries and continents are joining forces to fight climate change. In Africa, countries like Morocco, South Africa and Kenya, have been making use of the abundant renewable energy resources available and have even been reliable exporters of renewable energy to other countries. India, one of the world’s top emitters of CO2, is making use of renewable energy sources and is also investing to develop and promote green technologies. Japan is also taking part with its “Cool Biz” initiative, designed to reduce energy consumption in the workplace by simply encouraging people to dress more casually and not use air conditioning as much.
Practical Tips for Reducing One’s Carbon Footprint
Apart from countries making a larger social impact in the fight against climate change, individuals can also do their part when it comes to reducing their carbon footprint, no matter where they are in the world. Here are some tips that everyone can follow to reduce their carbon emissions and make a difference:
• Optimize your commute: You can either replace your usual commute with a more energy efficient means of transportation such as public transport, walking, biking or carpooling.
• Maximize energy efficiency: Make sure to reduce your energy consumption by replacing your lighting with LED bulbs, using smart appliances and weatherizing your home.
• Adjust your dietary habits: Going vegan has been shown to be the single biggest way to reduce one’s carbon footprint. As an alternative, you can simply incorporate more plant-based foods into your diet.
• Reduce your waste: Make sure to recycle and compost as much as possible and avoid single-use plastics wherever you can.
• Support climate change initiatives: Lobby your local government to fight climate change and support organizations and companies who are in line with the same mission.
• Play your part: Every little act counts, when it comes to climate change. Be mindful of your choices and think twice before you take any action that might play a role in changing our climate.
As countries continue moving towards a green future to reduce their carbon emissions, it is increasingly becoming important to involve everyone in the process. Every individual has a major role to play when it comes to environmental protection and it starts with small steps. Although it may seem that the contributions are small, when combined, it can make a marked difference for generations to come. Reducing one’s carbon footprint holds the key to a healthier, happier and greener tomorrow.
