Reducing Household Emissions

While we’re all on the topic of flooding, climate change has exacerbated the floods, having a drastic effect on the intensity and frequency around the world. Warmer air can hold more moisture, leading to more intense and frequent precipitation events. This has caused an increase in the severity of floods, as more water is released from the atmosphere at a faster rate. The effects of climate change on floods have been seen in many parts of the world and, as we have recently learned, also in little old New Zealand. In order to mitigate the effects of climate change, it is important to reduce emissions and take further steps to reduce the impacts of global warming. By doing so, we can reduce the intensity and frequency of floods and help to protect our communities from the devastating effects they cause.

Reducing household emissions is an essential step in helping to protect the environment. There are many simple ways to reduce emissions, such as using energy-efficient appliances and renewable energy sources and reducing the amount of energy used in everyday activities. Additionally, reducing the amount of waste produced and recycling can help to reduce emissions. Making small changes to every day habits can have a big impact on reducing household emissions and helping to protect the environment.

One way to reduce emissions is to use energy-efficient appliances. By switching to energy-efficient appliances, you can reduce the amount of energy used in your home, resulting in fewer emissions. Additionally, you can save money on your energy bill. Additionally, you can reduce emissions by reducing the amount of electricity you use. This can be done by turning off lights, unplugging electronics when not in use, and using natural light when possible. Another way to reduce emissions is to use renewable energy sources. This can be done by installing solar panels or using wind turbines to generate electricity. Additionally, you can switch to renewable energy sources for heating and cooling your home. By using renewable energy sources, you can reduce the amount of emissions produced by your home and make a positive impact on the environment. 

Reducing emissions is an important step in creating a healthier planet for future generations. Here at 1st Class Gardens, we do everything we can as a business to mitigate our emissions. Sustainability is embedded in all of our practices. Here are just a few of the things we do to ensure that our work benefits the planet:

  • The majority of our work vehicles are electric and we also make use of hybrid & PHEV

  • ALL of our tools are electric, from line trimmers to lawnmowers.

  • The solar panels on our vehicles charge our tools.

  • We send our garden ‘waste’ to commercial composting.

  • We love to help our clients in their own sustainability efforts by installing garden rainwater tanks and managing bait stations.

We care for our environment and community with how we get about the city. We purchased our first fully electric van back in 2018 and, because this was such a successful move, we purchased our second less than two years later. We also make use of a hybrid vehicle and what little emissions remain are then offset by partnering with Z Energy and Permanent Forests NZ. Of course, the best EVs are on two wheels, so we make use of e-bikes where it makes sense. Most of us commute to work by bike and, where practical, we ride to consultations and other meetings, too. Safe and efficient transport is not only good for business but for the whole city and plays our part in working towards a more liveable city.

Transport is a major factor over March, as three major events are taking place. Firstly, March Madness (traffic congestion peaks at this time of year as cars, buses and freight vehicles dramatically increase on Auckland's roads) is set to begin, which will require the efficient transportation of people and goods. Secondly, KiwiRail has rolling passenger rail shutdowns over the next three years, which will further complicate transportation. Lastly, ongoing storm recovery efforts will require the transportation of materials and personnel. All of these events will require a reliable transportation system in order to be successful, and it is clear that transport will be a major part of the overall picture.

Reducing household emissions is an important step in creating a healthier environment for our planet. There are many simple steps that can be taken to reduce emissions and, by taking these steps, we can make a positive impact on the environment. How will you contribute?

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Green Infrastructure in Urban Environments