Learn how to lower your waste and carbon footprint, for free
When you hear the world has just 10 years to drastically reduce global carbon emissions for the planet to stay below 1.5°C of warming, it sounds like such a huge problem. It seems impossible, and that there’s little an individual can do to help.
But there’s a lot, says Rhys Taylor, the national coordinator of a free, nationwide programme which teaches people practical ways to live sustainably.
The Future Living Skills community education programme is available online and is now free to use.
“It begins with reducing waste and protecting waterways and goes beyond,” says Rhys. “The learning guides help you to understand lower-carbon living in your energy, travel, and food choices, and when homes are designed or renovated.”
Young people around the world, such as Swedish climate activist Greta Thunberg, believe there’s an urgent need to help educate their parents and grandparents about how to transition to a low carbon emission economy, says Rhys.
“We all need practical knowledge on how to get more from less.”
The website, based on science and independent of any commercial bias, covers eight areas of sustainability. Some councils, such as Christchurch and Dunedin, also run groups and classes.
There’s an urgent need to educate parents and grandparents on low carbon living
“There’s the encouragement of learning and discussion with others, which is a strong motivator of action,” says Rhys.
Check your council for evening courses and public workshops.