Finding solutions to climate change isn’t easy, but it can be done! Some are easy, some are hard, some are expensive, and some are cheap. And, believe it or not, you can have fun doing it!
One of my biggest frustrations working on NASA’s Climate website was our inability to discuss solutions to climate change. That was the most asked question that came through our “Feedback” section (which no longer exists).
Climate change is one of the biggest challenges our world faces today. It means that Earth’s average temperature is rising. It also means that ice sheets and glaciers are melting, and extreme weather is getting worse. Fortunately, people around the world are working on solutions to slow down and stop the worst impacts of climate change. Here are some solutions to climate change that can help protect our planet:
Switch to renewable energy
The major cause of today’s climate change is burning fossil fuels like coal, oil, and natural gas for energy. This process releases carbon dioxide (CO₂) and other greenhouse gases. Greenhouse gases trap heat in Earth’s atmosphere. To reduce this, we need to switch to renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and hydropower, which produce very little CO2. Wind turbines, for example, use wind to generate electricity, and solar panels turn sunlight into energy. By increasing the use of renewable energy, we can reduce the amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.
Improve energy efficiency
Another solution to climate change is to use energy more efficiently. Energy efficiency means doing the same tasks but using less energy. For example, LED light bulbs use much less electricity than traditional ones, and well-insulated homes need less heating and cooling, saving energy.
We can all play a part here. At home, we can adjust our thermostats a little bit to use less energy. We can also lower the temperature of our water heaters. Cleaning air vents, stopping air leaks, and unplugging electronics when not in use are cheap, easy solutions. Making sure the dishwasher and laundry loads are full before washing takes a little practice, but it becomes easier over time!
When buying new appliances, look for the Energy Star symbol. This will help you save energy and when making buying decisions.
Expensive choices include installing solar panels, heat pumps, and induction stoves. It saves money in the long run, but the up front costs are steep. As a result of the changes I’ve made, my electric bill is now $16.00/month! I know many people are also afraid to say goodbye to their gas stoves, but I promise that you’ll love your induction stove once you’re ready and able to make the move.
Protect forests and plant more trees
Trees are natural air purifiers. They absorb some CO₂ from the air and use it to grow, storing carbon in their trunks, branches, and roots. Tropical rainforests like the Amazon are crucial in fighting climate change. But every year, large areas of forests are cut down for farming, logging, or development. Remember my blog about palm oil? Protecting forests and planting more trees can help absorb some of the CO₂ that’s warming our planet. Many countries have started reforestation projects, which means planting trees to replace those that have been cut down.
Planting trees isn’t enough to compensate for our emissions, but every little bit helps! Look for opportunities to plant trees in your area, and get involved.
Reduce, reuse, and recycle
Many everyday products, like plastic bottles, bags, and packaging, are made from oil, a fossil fuel. Producing these items and managing waste can contribute to climate change. A simple solution to climate change is reducing how much we buy, reusing items, and recycling whenever possible, we can help cut down on waste and reduce the amount of energy needed to make new products. Recycling plastic, metal, and glass saves a lot of energy compared to producing new materials.
For more information on plastic pollution and how you can help, please visit the Plastic Pollution Coalition website.
Use public transportation or electric vehicles
Transportation, like cars, buses, and planes, is a big source of greenhouse gas emissions. To help reduce these emissions, people can choose public transportation, like buses and trains, when possible. Yes, I know, some people live in areas where this just isn’t possible. In that case, you’re your errands and make fewer trips. Electric cars, which run on batteries rather than gasoline, are also becoming cheaper and more common. Because they use electricity instead of burning fuel, they produce no emissions when driving. Biking, walking, or carpooling can also help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Raise awareness and get involved!
Finally, one of the most powerful ways to fight climate change is through awareness and action. Many people don’t realize how serious climate change is or what they can do to help. Learning about the issue, spreading the word, and encouraging others to make small changes can make a big difference. Many schools, communities, and organizations also have environmental programs where people can volunteer to help reduce waste, protect nature, or plant trees.
Conclusion
Stay tuned for more information on solutions to climate change! Solving climate change isn’t easy, and it will require efforts from people, governments, and companies worldwide. But by using renewable energy, protecting forests, recycling, and supporting eco-friendly technology, we can make a difference. It’s up to us to take action, protect the planet, and create a healthier world for our children, grandchildren, and future generations.
Resources
There are some great books that talk about what we can do to help protect our planet:
Solve Climate Change Now: Do What You Love for a Healthy Planet by Don Maruska, a friend of mine
Living Like Ed: A Guide to the Eco-Friendly Life – by Ed Begley, Jr., also a friend of mine
Save the Planet in Your Spare Time: A Climate Protection Handbook – by Joyce Mercade