Environment New Zealand 2007: Atmosphere
Did you know?
- The atmosphere surrounding the earth is a vital part of our world. It recycles energy, water, and other necessities of life.
- New Zealand’s greenhouse gas emissions are increasing, reflecting our growing population and economy.
- Although we produce less than 1 per cent of global emissions, we are the 12th highest emitter in the world per head of population.
- Emissions from agriculture contribute nearly half of our total emissions. Emissions from energy generation and transport contribute most of the rest.
- Since 1990, emissions removed from the atmosphere by forest growth have increased by 12 per cent.
- Levels of ozone have stabilised since the late 1990s, resulting in an improvement in UV-levels.
For more information about the atmosphere see Environment New Zealand 2007 at www.mfe.govt.nz
What can you do?
- Lose the heavy stuff – each 50 kg of extra weight in your car increases fuel consumption by around 2 per cent. Remove your roof rack when you don't need it and save even more fuel.
- When buying appliances, look for the energy rating label and the ENEGY STAR mark to help save you money and power – the more stars on the energy rating label, the better the energy efficiency.
- Switch off appliances at the wall – the average household could save around 10 per cent on its power bill if appliances on standby were switched off.
- Planting trees removes carbon from the atmosphere, filters air, and prevents soil erosion.
- Compost your kitchen or garden waste – composting serves as a kind of carbon sink, storing carbon in the soil instead of in the atmosphere.
Take your next step towards sustainability at sustainability.govt.nz
