October 21 marks World Energy Saving Day, a date recognized to highlight the significance of responsible energy resource utilization. Although the origins of this observance are unclear, it serves as a reminder to reflect on our habits and take concrete steps towards a more sustainable future, as noted by an article from the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM).
According to National Geographic, there are several actions individuals can take to conserve energy at home, such as unplugging devices when not in use, reducing the use of electrical appliances, opting for energy-efficient products, turning off lights, taking shorter showers, and regulating indoor temperatures. However, how can one save energy when away from home? On this special day, National Geographic compiled five practical tips for energy conservation outside the house.
1. Adjust Heating and Cooling
When at home, it is advisable to set the thermostat to the lowest comfortable temperature and dress warmly. Using a programmable thermostat can help set the temperature to 15 °C during sleep and 10 °C when the house is empty. The International Energy Agency (IEA) indicates that these adjustments can reduce heating bills by up to 10% annually. Lowering the thermostat by just 1 °C can lead to approximately 7% savings on heating energy. Heating only the rooms you occupy also helps conserve energy and reduce costs. Before leaving home, make sure to turn off the heating or air conditioning to prevent waste.
2. Walk or Bike for Short Distances
For shorter trips, consider walking or biking instead of driving. This not only helps avoid traffic congestion but also conserves energy and reduces vehicle emissions, according to the IEA. This approach is particularly relevant as the United Nations states that the transportation sector currently accounts for the highest carbon emissions globally. It is important to wear safety gear like helmets and use lights while biking, especially at night. Cities that prioritize cycling infrastructure encourage the adoption of this eco-friendly mode of transport.
3. Use Public Transport When Possible
For longer distances, prioritizing public transportation can be an effective solution whenever feasible. Options such as subways or buses are designed to carry many passengers and are widely available in major and mid-sized cities across Latin America. To enhance the experience, avoid peak hours when possible. Additionally, consider combining public transport with car travel, such as ride-sharing with friends or family, which can save energy and money. According to the UN, substituting car use with public transport can potentially reduce an individual”s annual carbon emissions by up to 2.2 tons, while living without a car can lower the annual carbon footprint by approximately 3.6 tons.
4. Drive Smart
The IEA emphasizes that optimizing driving habits is a practical strategy to reduce fuel consumption. Recommended practices include driving smoothly and at lower speeds on highways, keeping windows closed at high speeds, ensuring tires are properly inflated, choosing less congested routes, and turning off the engine when stationary. Regular maintenance and care of the vehicle can extend its lifespan, while smaller cars generally require less energy to operate. If purchasing a new vehicle, consider opting for an electric vehicle (EV), as transitioning from a standard car to an EV can reduce your carbon footprint by an average of 2 tons annually. Choosing a used EV can be even more beneficial, as manufacturing new EVs requires significant amounts of minerals and precious metals.
5. Evaluate Travel Options for Long Journeys
Airplanes consume fossil fuels for propulsion and, due to their size and travel distances, produce substantial emissions. The UN reports that aviation accounted for 2.5% of global energy-related carbon dioxide emissions in 2023. For instance, a one-way flight from New York to Tokyo generates around 2 tons of carbon dioxide emissions, while the average annual carbon footprint per person is approximately 5.9 tons. Given the high emissions associated with long-haul flights, considering alternative modes of transport, such as trains or buses, can be a more environmentally friendly choice. If flying is unavoidable, the UN advises planning trips in advance to minimize the number of journeys required. In regions with limited rail options, carpooling with friends or family is also a viable strategy.
According to the IEA, simple behavioral changes and habits can lead to smarter energy consumption in daily activities, which translates to a smaller environmental footprint and reduced costs. Such changes contribute to public health and well-being. However, while many of these measures can be adopted immediately at little or no cost, such as adjusting temperatures or walking instead of driving, the success of these behavioral shifts often relies on systemic changes facilitated by governments. Effective policies, infrastructure availability for cycling, public transport, and high-speed trains play critical roles in enabling individuals to modify their energy consumption habits. Additionally, societal norms influence the likelihood of consumers changing their energy practices. The IEA underscores that substantial changes in lifestyle and public opinion necessary for these adjustments will require timely and coherent political interventions and investments.
