Climate change and the environment is top of the global agenda today as the need to cut down on carbon emissions becomes increasingly apparent. As the leaders of the world come together to stragegize how to stop global warming and reduce emissions, we can also do our part to help. How? Put in a homemade solar cell and not only get free energy but do something good for the environment while you're at it. If you do install a homemade solar cell, use a kit that is made by a certified professional. If you are using an uncertified kit, that is very dangerous. Start your research here by reading our homemade solar cell diy review.

Reducing the amount of energy we use in our home, in our workplace and in our cars can have a significant affect on emissions. This can be accomplished by putting in a homemade solar cell. It's not as intimidating as it sounds. Not only that, it can save you money too. We can collectively make a big difference on a worldwide scale if everyone take the time to make small changes. Here are some tips for cutting down your energy usage.

In the home

* Switch to energy-saving light bulbs. Put in a homemade solar cell while you're at it. It's not as hard as you probably are imagining it to be. They cost slightly more, but save up to ten times their price over their lifetime.

* If you are heating or boiling anything, just boil what you plan on using. You do not need a kettle full of boiling water for one cup of tea.

* Switch off appliances when you are not using them to save money and energy. TVs, videos, stereos and computers left on standby can use use a lot of energy.

* If it's recyclable, recycle it. Most people toss their own weight's worth of recyclables like aluminum, plastic, cardboard, paper, cans, and bottles into the trash. For example, it takes the same amount of energy to make 20 cans from recycled material as it takes to make one can from scratch. If you recycle enough, your monthly garbage bill will go down if you reduce the service needed.

* If you are located in a region of the world with ample sun exposure, you could likely get all your energy consumption needs met with solar power.

* Lower your thermostat by 3 degrees. You'll save about ten percent on your electric bill too.,. Additionally, ensure that your house has enough insulation to keep as much heat in as possible.

* When washing clothes and dishes make sure the appliances are full. You can also try warm water instead.

* When you cook, place lids on your pots and pans.

In the office

* Where at all possible, store all documents in digital format on your computer or another storage device. If possible, print on both sides of a page of paper to reduce waste.

* It is not necessary to fly to a meeting that is half way around the world. Online audio and video conferencing has effectively cut out the need for face to face meetings and conferences. Potentially you can save a significant amount of energy here.

* Turn your computer off completely or at least put it to sleep when you are not using it. Computers still use a lot of energy when they are on screensaver mode.

In the car

* For shorter journeys, leave the car at home and use a bike instead. Bikes are a healthy, quick and enjoyable way to get around, and a great way to avoid congestion if you live in a big city.

*. You may get to work faster and it will even save you money.

* Join the hybrid revolution. Ask yourself if you really need your polluting sports utility vehicle. If not, trade it in for a hybrid? Buy a hybrid and use a fraction of the energy for your journeys.

* Public transport is far more energy efficient than driving. And don't forget how much pollution airplanes cause. Whenever possible, opt for ground transporation options like trains, buses, or cars.

In the shops

* Do not accept plastic bags from shops. Always bring your own reusable bags.

* Try to buy organic food that is grown locally. Organically grown food typically takes less energy to produce and is farmed sustainably. Because it is produced locally, there is a savings in transporation expense.

* Try to eat less meat. One of the biggest contributors to the greenhouse gases accumulating in the atmosphere is surprisingly farm livestock.

Water

While water isn't strictly energy, it is a finite resource that we need to preserve and take care of. Here are some tips on how to cut down on your water usage:

* Always use the shower instead of the bath.

* Never let water just run from the tap while you brush your teeth.

* Make sure you have a full load before using the washing machine or dishwasher.

* Try to install a system to use your waste water run-off to keep your garden watered. This will also serve to remind you to choose non-toxic detergents and soaps.

* Water your garden when the sun is not at its peak like before sunrise or at sunset.  This allows the water to be absorbed into the ground instead of evaporating in the hot sun if you water during the day. 

* Water butts or large water containers are a good idea for the garden. Situate them under the edges of your roof so they receive run-off when it rains.

These are just a few of the simple, yet effective, ways that you can help cut down on energy usage and reduce your carbon footprint. Even if we all follow just a few of these steps it will make a big difference and save us money as well.

Ralph Somers, editor