November/December 2008 Living Now
The Low Carbon Diet

Most people have heard of global warming. But few people understand that if we don't do something about it soon, it could be too late to reverse serious consequences, according to the Environmental Defense Fund.

Global warming happens because gases emitted mainly by power plants and cars trap heat inside the atmosphere. Large-scale solutions are necessary, such as switching to cleaner energy sources. But there are also many things each one of us can do right now to begin making a difference.

Counting Carbs

Any serious dieter knows that you've got to count calories. If we're serious about fighting global warming, we have to start counting carbs, as in carbon dioxide. That's one of the main ingredients causing global warming.

So here is your chance to start on a low carbon diet. And remember: saving energy isn't just good for the planet. It's also good for your pocketbook.

Inside the House

These six hot spots top the charts when it comes to potential household energy savings.

  • Air leaks: Check for places where air may be leaking out of your home, causing drafts. You can increase your energy efficiency as much as 30 percent simply by plugging air leaks.
  • Inadequate insulation: Check in attics, around pipes and ductwork, and under the flooring on the ground floor if you have an unheated basement.
  • Hot water heaters:Insulate the pipes that carry hot water throughout your home. If your water heater is more than five years old, wrap it in an insulating jacket. And turn down the thermostat if it's set higher than 120 degrees.
  • Cooking:Microwave ovens reduce energy use by about two-thirds compared with conventional ovens because they cook foods faster. Crock pots and pressure cookers are also efficient. And don't use a full-size oven to do the work of a toaster oven.
  • Light bulbs:Perhaps the quickest and easiest way to begin saving energy at home is by replacing standard light bulbs with new compact fluorescent bulbs. They cost slightly more than regular light bulbs, but they save money over time because they last up to 13 times longer.
  • Appliances and electronics:Run full loads when washing clothes. Wash in cold or warm water, not hot. Only run the dishwasher when there is a full load. Turn off your computer monitor when you won't be using it for at least 20 minutes. Finally, look for the Energy Star label on many types of appliances.

Offset Your Emissions

Low Carbon Diet Tip

Buying a new, energy-efficient refrigerator to replace one that's 20 years old will cut your home's CO2 output by a ton a year (and trim your annual electric bill up to $65).

Virtually all Americans share responsibility for greenhouse gas emissions, whether driving their cars or powering their homes. At www.fightglobalwarming.com, you can find a carbon calculator to help you estimate your personal contribution to global warming.

But even if you've already reduced your driving and electricity use, there's still more you can do. One way is to buy offsets, which are purchases of credits from projects that either reduce greenhouse gases in the atmosphere or result in fewer greenhouse gas emissions. An example of an offset project might include reforestation projects, since trees will capture the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide from the air.

Shopping for offsets is a little complicated. If you're not an expert, it can be hard to tell how much pollution is really being offset. Several retailers that sell offsets can be found at www.fightglobalwarming.com.

Source: Environmental Defense Fund at www.edf.org.