What Can We Do about Climate Change?

It starts with you

The UN Climate Change Conference in Paris is fast approaching—and with it, our best chance to secure meaningful global climate change action. But the decisions that define our day-to-day lives have a huge impact as well. Below, learn how to be a climate champion on your way to work, in the kitchen, and even in the laundry room.

flat icon of fridge

Shop Your Fridge

Most of us don’t notice food waste, but every year we generate enough of it in the US to fill 91 Empire State Buildings. You can dramatically reduce that waste—a major source of carbon emissions—by using what’s already in the fridge to inspire your next meal.

flat icon of shower

Heat Trap

Hot water is the second biggest source of greenhouse gases created by US households—and the second biggest utility expense for homes. To cut down on both, set the temperature of your hot water heater to 120°F, which can cover most hot water needs.

flat icon of solar panel

Run on Sunshine

Every 2.5 minutes a home or business goes solar in the US; the cost has dropped 80% since 2008. Powering your household with sunshine can lower your electricity bills while dramatically reducing your consumption of the fossil fuels that are driving climate change.

Man with bicycle and dog

Raise Your Voice

Give climate change action your support: sign the petition asking President Obama to make strong US commitments at the Paris summit in December.

Cold Is Gold

A whopping 90% of the energy used by washing machines goes to heating the water. But cold water works just as well for most clothes, and helps colors last longer. There’s even a variety of detergents designed for cold-water settings.

Doggy Duty

If you’re a city dweller with a dog, use biodegradable bags to pick up your pooch’s poop. Most pet stores carry them, but you can also buy them online.

Sustainable Traffic

Use the bus or subway—or your legs—to commute to work when possible. Using a bike instead of a car just two days a week can lower your carbon emissions by two tons a year. If you’re sticking with a car, consider trading in for a hybrid or electric vehicle. And be sure to keep the tires inflated and drive moderately: speedy starts and stops can burn up to 33% more gas on highways and 5% more on city streets.

Out shopping? Look for these eco-labels

Marine Stewardship Council logo

Marine Stewardship Council

Resource Used:
Wild-caught fish

Protects:
Wild fish populations and surrounding ecosystems

Aqua Stewardship Council logo

Aqua Stewardship Council

Resource Used:
Farmed fish

Protects:
Fish populations and ecosystems surrounding fish farms

FSC logo

Forest Stewardship Council

Resources Used:
Wood and pulp

Protects:
Forest ecosystems and biodiversity

Rountable on Sustainable Palm Oil logo

Roundtable on Sustainable Palm

Resource Used:
Palm Oil

Protects:
Biodiversity, tropical forests

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About
World Wildlife magazine provides an inspiring, in-depth look at the connections between animals, people and our planet. Published quarterly by WWF, the magazine helps make you a part of our efforts to solve some of the most pressing issues facing the natural world.

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