April 22, 2020
- Embrace working remotely. Many workplaces have been forced to figure out how to accommodate remote work during this period of social distancing. The silver lining is that this is proven way to draw down carbon emissions as well. Cleaner air also makes us less vulnerable to the virus. Encourage your workplace to support remote work options long term. Studies show that remote workers are happier and more productive, which is why we should keep up this habit even if and when we beat the virus.
- Ditch gasoline. Demand for gasoline is plummeting. Rather than reverting back to business (and pollution) as usual, we can recover from this pandemic and keep the smog-free skies if we rethink our transportation choices. Switching to electric cars powered by renewable energy will save lives (air pollution kills millions), help us beat climate change, and even save money. For instance, search autotrader for used cars w/ fuel type "electric.” Used Nissan Leafs are listed for less than $5,000. Now bookmark these rebates, such as up to $7,000 for buying a used EV. Leases can be affordable as well. Plus, you’ll save big on gasoline and maintenance, and they’re fun to drive. Alternatively, biking along safe paths is also fun.
- Choose renewable energy and electric appliances. (Apply for discounted utilities if you are in need.) After transportation, buildings are the other major source of carbon emissions. Luckily, we can increasingly choose renewable electricity and appliances that don't burn fracked natural gas. See this building guide to learn about options such as heat pumps and induction cooktops, or attend this webinar on the effects of residential gas appliances on air quality and our health. Phasing out gas appliances and using advanced electric appliances will reduce hazardous air pollution in our homes (CO, NOx, NO2, fine particulates and formaldehyde), and generate $3.5 billion in annual health savings in California. Cities are updating their building codes to encourage this transition. As an individual you have influence here. Tell your city council to prioritize renewable energy and electrification. We need it for our health, our climate, and jobs.
- Become politically active. Thanks to you, Sierra Club’s endorsed candidates did well in the March 3, 2020 primary. For instance, Santa Barbara County Supervisor Joan Hartmann, received a whopping 55% of the vote in a 4-way race, decisively defeating the oil-backed candidate and winning outright without the need for a November runoff. Elections matter. We need caring, competent, science-literate leadership to confront the climate crisis, plan for pandemics and help those who are suffering. Plus, voting will make you feel better. Studies show that voting is correlated with greater life satisfaction and happiness. Tell your elected officials to act on the climate crisis, to deny new fossil fuel infrastructure, and prioritize public health, clean water and air. It's not just good for the planet, it’s good for us too.
- Stay informed. Knowledge is power, which is why earth day started as a teach in. To get us thinking about what’s possible, here’s a list of some big things that have been accomplished since earth day’s inception 50 years ago. The NY Times offers a crash course on climate change. And Santa Barbara’s famed earth day will be live-streamed from 12-5 and 7-11 today.
