Carbon Neutral

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One effective way we can combat greenhouse gas emissions is to plant trees.  Trees absorb carbon dioxide while they grow and trap it for years.  It takes these trees up to 100 years to neutralise the emissions you are creating today. 

It will take around six trees to absorb one tonne of carbon dioxide, with up to 50% of the absorption occurring within the first 10 years.   Trees also help to combat salinity, reduce soil erosion, clean underground water systems and provide habitat for wildlife.  For only $19 per tonne or around $3 per tree, Carbon Neutral will help you to offset your carbon dioxide emissions by planting native trees on your behalf.

To get started, visit the Carbon Neutral website and try calculating your household emissions using the simple online calculator.

Here are some practical ways to reduce the carbon output from your existing home:

• Reduce the use of electrical appliances and switch off lights, appliances and equipment at the powerpoint when they are not needed
• Select smaller energy efficient appliances with low standby power use and avoid unnecessary purchases.  When purchasing appliances, ensure they have a high star rating.
• Reduce water use and reduce hot water heating by installing water efficient showerheads, taking shorter showers and using cold water for washing clothes.
• Set thermostat to 18-20 degrees in winter and 26 degrees in summer.
• Close off areas that don't need heating in winter or cooling in summer.
• Seal draughts and gaps around external doors and windows
• Install curtains, external blinds and shading to reduce the need for additional heating and cooling.
• Replace standard light globes with energy efficient globes in high use areas
• Switch your electricity over to GreenPower. 

Also consider these tips to improve the energy efficiency in the home when building or renovating:

• Ensure effective orientation and layout to maximise solar-passive strategies

• Install or top-up insulation in ceilings

• Size and orientate windows appropriately.

• Use materials that enhance passive solar strategies.