It would be easy to despair over climate change. After all, not only was 2024 the hottest year in recorded history, it was also when the world crossed the 1.5 C threshold that nearly every government pledged to avoid.  But there are things we can still do, as individuals and together, to address, and hopefully reverse, the impact of global warming.

1. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

The production and disposal of much what we use daily contributes greatly to greenhouse gas emissions. By practicing the three Rs—reduce, reuse, and recycle—we can minimize our environmental impact.

• Reduce: Before purchasing something new, ask yourself if it’s truly needed or if there’s a more sustainable option. Consider choosing products with less packaging or opting for digital over physical goods.
• Reuse: Repurpose rather than disposing items after a single use. Many food containers, such as glass jars, can be reused for storage and old clothes can be donated or transformed into new creations.
• Recycle: Properly sorting and recycling reduces the energy needed for virgin materials. Assuring that your community handles these materials appropriately is critically important as well.

2. Sustainable Transportation

Transportation is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, especially in urban areas. Adopting more sustainable modes of transit will reduce your carbon footprint:

• Walk or bike: Not only emission-free, but also great for your health.
• Use public transport: Buses, trains and other forms of public transportation lower greenhouse gas emissions by reducing the number of individual cars on the road.
• Carpool or ride-share: If public transportation isn’t an option, consider carpooling with friends, family or colleagues. Ride-sharing services are also a greener alternative to driving solo.
• Electric vehicles: Consider purchasing an electric vehicle (EV). EVs produce zero tailpipe emissions, making them a far more eco-friendly option than gasoline-powered cars.

3. At Home

By adopting energy-efficient practices and technologies, individuals can help reduce overall emissions. And lower their personal expenses.

• Switch to energy-efficient appliances: Look for Energy Star-certified products, which use less electricity and water.
• Upgrade insulation: Upgrading home insulation can significantly reduce the need for heating and cooling.
• Use LED bulbs: LED light bulbs consume less energy and have a longer lifespan compared to traditional incandescent bulbs.
• Unplug electronics: Many electronics continue to consume power even when turned off. Manually unplug devices or place them on timers when not in use. Consider using power strips to make it easier to simultaneously disconnect multiple devices.
• Switch to a green energy plan: Many energy providers offer the option to purchase energy derived from renewable sources such as wind, solar or hydroelectric power.
• Install solar panels: Solar energy is a renewable, sustainable alternative to fossil fuels. Some rebates and incentives remain available.

4. Sustainable Diet

Food production contributes greatly to greenhouse gas emissions. Sustainable food choices will help reduce the impact of our diet on the environment:

• Eat less meat: Consider adopting a plant-based diet or reducing your meat consumption. The production of plant-based foods has a lower carbon footprint compared to animal-based products.
• Buy local: Purchasing locally sourced food reduces the carbon emissions associated with transportation and supports local farmers who often use more sustainable practices.
• Reduce food waste: Plan your meals, store food properly and use leftovers to prevent food from going to waste. Wasting food contributes to methane emissions when it decomposes in landfills.
• Grow your own food: If you have the space, consider growing your own fruits and vegetables. Not only will this reduce your carbon footprint, but it also provides you with fresh, seasonal produce.

5. Get Involved

We can all help combat climate change by raising awareness and taking action within our communities.

• Speak up: Combat the false narratives by sharing your knowledge and insights. Education is key. The more people understand the urgency of the situation, the more likely they are to take action.
• Join up: Become a member of Advance ESG and other organizations that are fighting climate change. Donations, volunteering or simply spreading the word about these efforts are great ways to support these efforts.
• Engage with policymakers: Contact your local representatives and urge them to prioritize climate change policies. Voting for candidates who support climate action is another powerful way to influence change.
• Make Eco-Friendly Investments: Consider where you put your money. Invest in companies that prioritize environmental responsibility, such as those involved in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, or green technologies. Put your monies into sustainable investment funds that align with your values.

For more insights and guidance on navigating the evolving landscape of climate change, sustainable investing and other related issues, stay tuned to our blog for future updates and expert analyses.

And help us build a more sustainable and equitable world by becoming a member of the Advance ESG community. It’s free to join and there are no future financial obligations. Together, we can make a difference in safeguarding our planet for future generations.