Householders can help cut global warming
Readers worried by last week’s UN report on rising global temperatures can act now.
Green energy expert Ron Fox says people can play a vital role after the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) issued a special warning that the world is heading toward increases of 3 degrees Celsius, instead of the planned 1.5 C.
The top scientists say time is running out and drastic changes must be made in the next 12 years or there will be a catastrophic loss of coral reefs and Arctic ice, which will lead to intense floods as sea levels rise and droughts, food shortages and poverty for millions.
They said it is going to take large-scale changes from governments and individuals, plus investing around £1.82 trillion every year up to 2035 to keep global warming to 1.5 per cent. Although huge, the experts say that bill is cheaper than removing the carbon dioxide from the atmosphere later this century.
To do this they said global emissions of carbon dioxide need to decline by 45% by 2030 from 2010 levels and to net zero by 2050; a rapid switch to electric vehicles, huge expansion of renewable energy such as wind and wave power, shutting hundreds of coal-fired power stations and planting many new forests.
“I accept the real challenge is to politicians, political systems and corporations who have some really hard choices, but individuals can make changes – and most importantly they have a vote,” said Ron. Here are some of his suggestions.
- Insulation: Simple measures such as insulating lofts and draught-proofing doors would see a big drop in energy usage. “Unfortunately the UK Government has cut substantially the amount that energy companies are forced to spend on helping households with energy efficiency measures,” said Ron, of Noreus Ltd on the University of Keele Science and Innovation Park (www.noreus.co.uk). “That needs to be reviewed as a matter of urgency.”
- Solar panels: Move to green energy and install solar panels using free sunlight. “However,” said Ron, “householders need to do this before April 2019 when Government incentives to switch end.”
- Heat pumps: Solar assisted heat pump or solar thermodynamic panels provide hot water using the sun, reducing both energy and central heating bills.
- Transport: Walk or cycle or us public transport if possible. If a car is needed consider an electric one.
- Recycle: Buyer fewer things, use less and recycle wherever possible, all moves which will help cut our carbon footprint.
- Turn the thermostat down: Reducing the heating when away or asleep and setting it just 2 degrees lower in winter and higher in summer could save about 2,000 pounds of carbon dioxide each year.
Ron concluded: “I agree with Dr Debra Roberts, co-chair of the IPCC who said that no one can opt out now. But she added that change is feasible if we all put our best foot forward now.”
For more advice on green energy and cutting our carbon emissions contact Ron on 01782 756995 or go to www.noreus.co.uk
