NewGenCoal

Actions

Every action, however small, makes a difference to safeguarding our climate.

From individuals, families, neighbourhoods or workplaces making changes to reduce their carbon footprint, to the corporations fostering innovation, to the governments implementing policy - every single action that reduces our CO2 emissions, however small, helps. These links are updated daily to reflect the wealth of work being done around the world to tackle climate change.

Top 10 things you can do to help

Climate change will only be solved by actions at all levels in all sectors. While we should all expect and encourage governments and research organizations to create innovative solutions and implement supportive policy, its also up to us as individuals to adopt climate-friendly practices. As an individual, these changes in behaviour and practice may not amount to much, but when summed over a whole population, the difference is undeniable. Some of these actions require more effort than others – start where you are comfortable. As you introduce some of these tips though, you may notice other significant benefits – your bank balance or waistline!

  1. Drive less: Reduce emissions by car-pooling with colleagues, or use sites such as www.thecarpool.com.au or www.myspareseat.com.au, to find people heading in your direction. 
  2. Bike more: Reduce emissions while increasing your fitness by riding your bike to work. Bicycle Victoria has some great resources for anyone with cycling questions.  
  3. Eat smart: Buying locally available at farmers markets not only reduces emissions associated with transporting food long distances, but also reduces packaging waste.
  4. Plant a tree: Every tree you plant will help the environment, but a planting a native tree carries the added benefit of assisting biodiversity. 2010 is the International Year of Biodiversity. 
  5. Make your home energy efficient: Optimize your electricity usage by making your home as energy efficient as possible. The right insulation, effective door seals and double glazed windows all work to keep your heating and cooling in, reducing energy usage and emissions.
  1. Government rebates to green your home: Make the most of government funded incentives and rebates to minimise your carbon footprint at home. 
  2. Turn off standby: When your appliances are on standby or sleep modes, they are still using electricity. This dormant power accounts for over 10% of total electricity used in a typical home.  [PDF]
  3. Recycle: You may be surprised at the range of products that can be recycled. From corks to car batteries, Recycling Near You provides a handy search functionality for the best recycling information for your suburb.
  4. Shopping bags: Plastic bags can take up to 1,000 years to breakdown, and can be hazardous to wildlife. Keep your reusable bags in an easily accessible place so you always remember to pick them up on the way out the door.
  5. Communicate: Spreading this knowledge to your friends, family and colleagues can only amplify the positive action that you are taking. So share NewGenCoal with your network!