11 Simple Tips On How To Reduce Your Carbon Footprint.

Canadians consume 1.5 million barrels of oil a day! It gives us things such as heating, cooling, of our homes, and transportation. It underpins our economy and the lifestyle we love so much. Consequently, if oil disappeared tomorrow the impact on our reality would devastate our existence. Could you imagine a world without Oil? Without oil, we would have a long list of impossible endeavors! No themes parks, movie theaters, public swimming pools.

Not to mention, we’re blessed to give children warm clothes and toys. As well as the ability to reach the furthest corners of the world! But, now Scientists have warned us our carbon footprint is too large. The planet is warming. It’s a forbidden love affair and sh#%s getting real around here! We’ve been warned that we need to break up and move on but can we?

The Canadian government states, Canada is the 4th largest oil producer in the world. Even so, we import refined oil from other countries. Seriously this is like a Baker selling bread but not eating what he makes! Instead, he buys bread from across the street! Smart conscious consumers shop locally. Neighborhood businesses rely on support from the community around them.  But the federal government doesn’t have the same policy.

Not to mention, Canada is one of the richest countries in the world! Even though, the Canadian population is small in comparison to many countries. We have plenty of natural resources so there’s no excuse not investing in domestic energy. The Canadian landmass is vast and the energy consumption is booming. We have the potential to provide ourselves with our own oil. In spite of these facts, we import oil because of our inability to refine it.

The Eastern Atlantic refineries are outdated and the plants need retrofitting. The refining plants were built in a time when light crude oil was abundant. But, now heavy crude oil from the tar sands accounts for 96% of it’s oil. The Eastern refinery plants don’t have the capability to refine heavy crude oil. So, they import oil from other countries.

The majority comes from the USA followed by Saudi Arabia, Iraq, Norway, Angola, and Mexico. Presently, New Brunswick imports 40% of its oil from Saudia Arabia. Quebec, Ontario, Labrador also get oil from the Southern USA. Consequently, every year Canada spends 10 million dollars on oil alone. This translates to 20 billion dollars in the past ten years!

Don’t you think we should start spending our money elsewhere? Invest in our own alternative energy plans and become self-sufficient?

This is another example of Canada’s inability to be self-sufficient. It so badly needs to become a circular economy. Refining domestic oil can give Canadians the means to explore alternative forms of energy. Canada should invest in new technologies that reduce the need for oil. In the hope that it will slow oil shipments from great distances. For fear that if we don’t Carbon Dioxide (CO2) will continually be released into the atmosphere. In order to reduce our reliance on foreign oil, it’s time. Time to spend money on the aging and outdated infrastructure. Time to invest in new energy technologies.

We’ve had the ability to travel long distances with our goods for ages! Long-range trade has been a part of life since the third Millenium! (2001- 3000) For the purpose of the lifestyle sourcing materials from great distances is in our DNA! Establishing trade colonies has led the way to how we do business today. It would be asking a lot from humanity to change our trading ways! A lot! But, welcome to 2020! When the world is getting warmer and it’s projected that unsustainable living conditions are imminent. In view of the current trade routes, oil has such an incredible journey to get to us.

If your cruising distances then electric is the way to go! Electric bikes can move up to 25 km’s an hour on average. They’re fun and worth the initial investment of $800-$2000. I love cruising around on my cruiser especially with friends. Wouldn’t it be nice if we could do this more often?

Starting June 1 and keep it off until September 15th. Cut your annual bills down by saving up to $50.00 each month the furnace is off! In other words it’s a free meal at your favorite hangout!

Support local artisans and businesses that offer seasonal products. Quite often products are fresher and there is way less packaging. It has traveled less to get from the farm to the plate.

If a push mower is out of the question than plant gardens to reduce the amount of time using a gas mower. Planting more trees is vital to stabilizing the climate, gives birds and insects homes. Plus if your picky groups of different varieties can look fabulous.

You will save money in the long run if you buy a used electric vehicle. Be one in a million that has the opportunity to save thousands of dollars.

Petroleum gives the illusion that your skin is rich and hydrated. However, studies show that it actually suffocates your pores! It is not a water-soluble substance so it traps moisture.

In general, this one is pretty much self-explanatory! In other words just say no to plastic bags! Avoid vegetables and fruits in bags or clam shell packaging. With this in mind, don’t forget to bring your coffee cup to work!

Idle Desktop computers, stereos, coffee makers, iPad, and cellular phones all drain 5-10% of energy. If you take a moment of your day to unplug appliances and electronics each day it will save money.

Polyester is the worst fabric for the environment because it’s made from man-made polymers that don’t break down. These clothes don’t readily biodegrade and people continually throw away clothes. Invest in product lines that are ethically sourced and natural.

Since an average family does seven loads of laundry a week. Being that drying clothes cost .45 cents an hour. You will save money when a clothesline is installed. This will save you over $150.00 a year or 30 lattes

More than ever the Leaders are listening to the world. Whenever they declare a climate emergency they’re willing to change policies. After all, raising awareness is vital to keep the momentum going! Write a letter to your local MP and tell him your concerns about the future. This post on plastic bags provides a link to contact your local British Columbia MP. Plus, sign this petition with the David Suzuki foundation

Even though, modern living has existed happily in the comforts of our homes, offices, and automobiles. We must change one habit or behavior a day! Thus conserving energy for the future of our children. We can reduce our carbon footprint together. We all know oil extraction is harmful to the environment. Importing Oil not only increases the carbon footprint. But, also encourages other countries to continue drilling. Not to mention it benefits their economy before our own. Conserving energy is easy. Try these new ideas and make an impact today!

For more information on this topic visit the links below

Crude Oil Supply and Demand

Canadian Crude Oil Facts