CartBeyond the Kit
Ready to go Beyond the Kit and explore some bigger steps for reducing your climate impact? These resources can help.
Climate Change 101: Feel like you need an update on what exactly is going on with climate change? See these user-friendly FAQs on global warming from the Union of Concerned Scientists.
Carbon Calculator: To reduce your climate impact, it's helpful to get a sense of your current carbon footprint. There are several carbon calculators out there. One to try: The EPA's site which calls out the ways you can reduce your impact.
Rethink Your Car: Since what you drive is one of your biggest climate impacts, it makes sense to make changes here. First, try reducing your driving as much as possible. Explore options for mass transit, telecommuting some days, biking, walking and carpooling. Then, check out options for more fuel-efficient cars.
For information on all kinds of vehicle options: http://www.eere.energy.gov/consumer/your_vehicle/
The Union of Concerned Scientists has tons of info about hybrids at their Hybrid Center.
For a searchable guide to greener cars, check out this EPA site.
Find More Energy-Saving Products: I have found the Energy Federation website to be a reasonably-priced, comprehensive source for energy-saving products. Check them out for programmable thermostats, water heater blankets, and lots more.
Renewable Energy: So you already know you can explore options for purchasing green power. What if you want to explore options for installing your own residential renewable energy? See what to consider for your own solar, wind and more at the Consumer's Guide to Energy Efficiency. Special information about small-scale options is also available.
Solar-specific information: Want to put some solar panels on your roof? See this comprehensive's consumer's guide: Get Your Power from the Sun
More consumer tips available at SolarBuzz.
There's a non-profit, Solar Energy International that even offers hands-on workshops and online courses on installing your own renewable energy.
Guide to Major Purchases: Need a new fridge or dishwasher? Great time to upgrade your efficiency. A couple of useful guides to getting energy-efficient major appliances:
Other Energy-Saving Resources:
- How to do a Do-It Yourself Home Energy Audit
- Search here for a Professional Home Energy Audit service in your area
- Tips from California's Consumer Energy Center. If you didn't know, California leads the way in many energy efficiency areas, so the rest of us might as well learn from them!
- And lots more on the web
Organizations to consider supporting: There are a lot of great groups working on climate change. Here are two of my national favorites to check out:
Union of Concerned Scientists: I'm a long-time member and big fan of their work, which combines sound scientfic research and citizen action to make a healthier and safer world.
1Sky: I have great respect for the people working with 1Sky to mobilize a nationwide movement for climate change solutions on the scale and in the timeframe we need.