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What you can do
The risks inherent in climate change mean we must act now. It is like taking out an insurance policy for our future. The risks of inaction will be far more costly to us than the costs of action.
A report released by former World Bank chief economist Sir Nicholas Stern[Stern, N. 2006. The Stern Review: Economics of Climate Change] in October 2006 estimated that inaction could be up to 20 times more costly to us. We can’t afford not to act.
There are two main ways we can take action on climate change: reduce our greenhouse gas emissions; and be prepared so we can adapt to the inevitable changes and become more resilient to our current climate.
It is important that both kinds of actions are taken. Without reducing our emissions, carbon dioxide levels in the atmosphere will continue to rise and affect our climate. And without proper planning, we will be more vulnerable to the impacts of climate change.
Everybody has a role to play in addressing climate change, whether it is the government, businesses, communities, or individuals.
Taking action will require a shift in the way we are all accustomed to doing things but it may be easier than you think. Being truly sustainable doesn’t mean sacrificing our living standards, but being smart and determined about how we do things.
A little for a lot
There are many easy actions you can take now to reduce your impact on the environment and get involved in New Zealand’s climate change response.
Energy
Did you know that cutting back on energy use helps reduce the amount of greenhouse gases emitted during the production of electricity? Make your home more energy efficient, and save on your power bill. Buying energy efficient appliances, replacing bulbs with energy efficient ones, and buying an insulation wrap for your hot water cylinder are all easy ways to make a difference at home. In the long term, you might also think about insulating your whole house or installing a solar hot water system.
Transport
Take a look at your regular mode of transport – what can you do to cut back the emissions generated from vehicle use? Driving more smoothly, keeping your tyres inflated at the right pressure, and regular tune ups and servicing can all reduce emissions and cut your fuel costs. If you can, walk, bike or take public transport to work. Next time you buy a car, look for a fuel efficient model. Check out: www.fuelsaver.govt.nz
Waste
Did you know composting your food scraps helps to cut methane emissions? More oxygen can get into it to help break it down in the garden than at the local landfill. Recycling helps cut down overall emissions too – generally it doesn’t take as much energy to recycle the raw materials as it does to produce them from scratch.
Community
Contact your local council or businesses to find out if there are any projects to reduce emissions under way in your community. You could also get involved in local environmental and community groups, or start your own. Keep informed: stay abreast of new climate change policies and initiatives.
For more tips on how to reduce your impact on the environment, check out another booklet in this series: Taking action on climate change. Small acts. Big impacts.
