We should live more simply, so that others can simply live

----  Mahtma Gandhi

12 things you can do to cut CO₂-emissions

1. In many countries consumers can choose an energy supplier selling "green energy", i.e. energy from renewable sources.
2. Tell your supplier that you want green energy.

  2. Turn you thermostat 1ºC lower in winter and 1ºC higher if cooling is required. (And turn off the heater/airco off one hour earlier before going to bed.)

  3. Take a shower instead of bath (and install a water saving shower head).

  4. Wash cold

1. There are washing powders availale that perfectly clean your dirty undies at low temperatures (30ºC).
2. Start the machine only when it's fully loaded.
3. Use a clothesline instead of a dryer.

  5. Turn off electric appliances and lights when not using them.

1. Electric appliances consume a fair bit of energy in stand-by mode: turn 'm off.
2. Practical tip: use a multiple outlet strip with a power switch.
3. Unplug gadget chargers. Even without the gadget connected to it the charger consumes energy.

 6. Replace your lightbulbs by energy saving lights.

1. Compact Fluorescent Lights (CFL) consume 70% less energy than conventional light bulbs. They last 6 times longer. Despite their higher purchase price they will save you money.
2. LED lights are 90% more efficient.

  7. Buy energy efficient appliances.

1. In Europe appliances have labels indicating energy consumption. Buy A-categorie appliances. In the USA look for the 'Energy Star' label.
2. Especially heating is energy intense. Efficient refridgerators and washing machines can save a lot of energy.
3. A laptop consumes less energy than a desktop computer.
4. Do you already have a high-efficiency central heating boiler?
   

   8. Wrap-up your home.

1. Wrap-up hot water piping and heater in spaces that don' t need heating.
2. Do you have double glazing?
3. Is your roof properly insulated?

   9. Recycle.

1. Buy things in recyclable packaging.
2. Recycle paper and buy recycled paper.
3. Recycle glasses when you finish the wine or jelly inside.
4. Give your old clothes to charity or recycle station.
5. Bring a recycle bag to supermarket, instead of using a new one each time

  10. Buy the right food.

1. Don't buy more than you eat.
2. Buy fresh food instead of frozen.
3. Choose local and seasonal food, i.e. food that hasn't been transported all over the globe and that's been grown without excessive artificial energy input.
4. Eat less meat. 
   Meat is a very inefficient food source. A lot of energy and space is required to grow the plant food for the animals. Also, cows are large emitters of methane, which is the second most important greenhouse gas. With the money you save you can once in a while indulge yourself with a really good piece of (organic) meat

  11. Choose an energy efficient car.

1. Look for the efficiency label (if applicable in your country).
2. Hybrid cars are 30% more efficient than conventional cars. Your wallet will love the savings on fuel. Check for subsidies on the purchase price in your country. Manufacturers offering hybrids are: Toyota, Lexus, Honda. More manufacturers to follow shortly.
3. Flexifuel cars can drive both on biofuel and conventional gas. These are available from Volvo, Ford and Saab.
4. Vehicles driving on Compressed Natural Gas can save you up to 25% on CO2-emissions. The disadvantage is the availability of refueling stations and the short range. They are a good option in an urban environment where distances are short, also because of the near zero air polluting emissions.

  12. Drive efficiently.

1. For short distances: take the bicycle! It will yield two hits in one blow:
   1. health: burn calories, stay in good shape, fresh air
   2. save fuel
2. Start your engine without pushing the gas pedal.
3. Drive at constant speed.
4. Shift to higher gear quickly (keep rpm below 2500).
5. Keep more distance and look further ahead. If you see you have to reduce speed, pull you foot off the pedal and let the car roll.
6. Keep your tires inflated! Check once a month. Well inflated tires reduces wear as well.
7. An efficient driving style will increase safety as well.
8. If possible use public transport (and use the time to read the book that's always been on your list but you've never found the time for).

notes:

Not all of the 12 points mentioned above work equally well in every country, as conditions and regulations are different. Here are some country specific references, which can help you to save energy and cut greenhouse gas emissions.