Switch to a renewable energy provider
One of our biggest challenges today is the excessive production of greenhouse gasses, in particular C02 (carbon dioxide). C02 is the byproduct of burning fossil fuels – which include coal, oil and natural gas and their derivatives – to produce electricity and heat, to power our vehicles, and to run our factories. The excessive amounts of greenhouse gasses is changing the chemistry of our atmosphere, affecting weather and rainfall, and causing our polar ice and glaciers to melt. We call this phenomenon climate change or global warming. Climate change has enormous and potentially devastating consequences for all life.
Fortunately, we can play a role in the transition from fossil fuels to clean energy by sourcing renewable energy to power our own lives. Sourcing renewable energy for both your home and your office is easy and affordable: buy your electricity from solar and wind power, and prioritise district heating, biogas digesters and second generation biofuels to heat your home. Although these technologies may sound complex, you will find that it is very easy to go fossil free in most developed countries. In the Netherlands, green energy providers offer renewable energy at competitive rates.
EDUCATE YOURSELF
Climate change: where we are in seven charts and what you can do to help, BBC
Read about how the Dutch Urgenda is working towards a circular economy using only renewable energy.
GET ACTIVE !
Source renewable energy:
(Check out consumer ratings for these energy suppliers before you make a choice).
Install in or invest in your own renewable energy
Ecostroom – community solar panel projects
Zuiderlicht – community solar panel projects with a twist (rent your rooftops)
Amsterdam Energie community solar panel projects for people without their own roofs
Reduce your energy consumption at home and at work.
Read these pointers to get you started
Turn off appliances that are not in use (use power plugs with switches/smart power strips)
Dry your clothes on a line rather than in the dryer (this will also make your clothes last longer)
Use energy efficient (LED) light bulbs
Use less heating and hot water (time your showers, wear layers)
Insulate your home (windows and doors) (in Dutch or in English)
Internet usage and online storage have a high carbon footprint, producing 2% of our annual greenhouse gas emissions. Read about some easy ways to reduce your internet carbon footprint.
