Fact Sheet - Easy as 1-2-3

Becoming a ClimateClever Home is as Easy as 1-2-3

Step 1 - know your carbon footprint

What is a carbon footprint?

A carbon footprint is a measure of the impact that activities and lifestyle have on the environment in terms of the amount of greenhouse gases produced. A carbon footprint is measured in tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2 –e) on an annual basis.

Carbon footprints can be measured for individuals, families, businesses and countries. These footprints are calculated from our direct emissions of carbon dioxide equivalent, such as the use of electricity, gas and fuel; and from indirect emissions which includes the growth, manufacturing and transport of ‘things’ we use in our lives such as food, clothes, electrical appliances and books.

Why is reducing your household’s carbon footprint important?

Reducing your household’s carbon footprint is critical to reducing your household’s contribution to climate change. In New South Wales our electricity demands are met mainly by coal-fired power stations which burn coal to produce electricity. Internationally scientists agree that that there is an overwhelming body of evidence that indicates the release of greenhouse gases from human activities such as the burning of coal is leading to a build-up of these greenhouse gases in our atmosphere. This build up is believed to be linked to the emerging trend of accelerated changes in climatic conditions around the globe.

To address this, nations around the world are introducing measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The Australian Government is establishing a Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme to help mitigate our nation’s contribution to climate change. This scheme will operate by placing a price on greenhouse gas emissions. By taking steps to reduce your household’s carbon footprint today, you can prepare your household for the potential financial impacts of rising energy prices as we head into a carbon constrained future.

 

Step 2 - reduce your carbon footprint

Reduce your energy consumption

Over 50 per cent of Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions come from electricity use. Reducing your household’s electricity consumption will go a long way to reducing your household’s ongoing contribution to climate change.

• Hot water
  Water heating is the biggest energy user in NSW homes. By switching from an electric to an energy efficient hot water system, you can save up to three tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions annually.
• Insulation
  Heating and cooling contributes to around one quarter of the energy used in NSW homes. Save electricity by insulating and draught proofing your home to create a more comfortable living environment.
• Lighting
  Lighting is responsible for 10 per cent of the average family's electricity bills but in some homes this can be much higher. Reduce your bills by replacing your incandescent bulbs with energy efficient bulbs such as compact fluorescents or LEDs.

Consider your other indirect emissions

It is important to realise that other household activities such as waste disposal, transport and food consumption indirectly contribute to your household’s carbon footprint.

• Waste
  In 2008, Willoughby’s recycling efforts saved 4,400 tonnes of greenhouse gases, or the equivalent of permanently removing 1,150 cars off the road. This was achieved by successfully diverting 74 per cent of household waste from landfill. However there is still room for improvement. Did you know that on average up to 58 per cent of the waste found in a Willoughby resident’s general waste bin can be composted? Find out more about Willoughby City Council’s waste services.
• Transport
  Active travel, which means walking or cycling is one easy way your household can significantly reduce your contribution to the pollution that causes climate change. If everyone left the car at home just one day a week, Australia could reduce car related emissions by up to 20 per cent.
• Transport Access Guides
  Willoughby City Council has produced a range of Transport Access Guides (TAGS) and maps to assist residents when travelling to a range of popular local destinations by sustainable transport methods such as cycling, walking and public transport. TAGS are available online or at Council’s Libraries and Customer Service Centre.
• Food
  Your food choices can make a significant dent in your carbon footprint. For example red meat has a large carbon footprint and high environmental impact. Try selecting lower impact meats such as kangaroo, or reduce the number of serves per week your household consumes. Enjoy locally produced fruit and vegetables that are in season to minimise the distance your food travels from farm to plate (sometimes from the opposite hemisphere) and cold storage requirements. Enjoy the experience of visiting your local produce markets where you can purchase fresh produce from local producers.

 

Step 3 - select GreenPower

Switching to 100% GreenPower is one of the easiest ways to significantly reduce your household’s impact on climate change.

GreenPower is accredited renewable energy sourced from the sun, wind, water and waste which produces no greenhouse gases and has minimal impact on the surrounding environment. To switch, contact the growing number of participating energy companies and ask to switch to 100% GreenPower. For more information visit www.greenpower.org.au .