Reduce Emissions, Save the Planet and Save Money
We’ve just been through a crazy summer of heat domes, atmospheric rivers and smoke polluting the air we breathe—all stemming from global climate change. How can you make a difference? What are the most impactful ways for households and individuals to reduce their carbon emissions? Check out these top suggestions from The United Nations:
Transportation
Upgrade to an electric vehicle
Utilize public transportation
Walk, scooter and bike
Fly less
Energy
Upgrade your gas furnace to a heat pump
Upgrade your gas appliances to electric
Install solar panels
Do a Home Energy Audit
Personal Habits
Throw away less food and compost the scraps
Reduce, Reuse, Repair and Recycle
Reject single use—bring your reusable bag, beverage bottle and takeaway container
Take Action
Lobby for the Electrification of Public Transportation
Ask your Homeowners Association to hire a Professional Energy Auditor to get numbers on what it would cost and save to electrify your building
Support municipal efforts to Eliminate Natual Gas Hookups in new construction
Set up Community Composting in your community or neighborhood
VOTE! 2024 is a big election year
And the part about saving money?
The Inflation Reduction Act offers reimbursement for many electrification costs. Claim up to a $2,000 federal tax credit on heat pumps, including the labor cost of installation, and the federal government offers up to $7,500 in tax credits for US-made electric vehicles that are placed in service in 2023 or later. Check out Rewiring America’s savings calculator for an estimate of available rebates.
Illinois has an all-electric vehicle rebate program that runs from November to January, for up to $4,000 in state tax rebates. Additionally, ComEd and Peoples Gas offer rebates on home efficiency upgrades like insulation, heat pumps, and more.
Save up to 70% off installing solar panels on your house, or sign up for Community Solar and utilize solar energy savings through your current electricity provider.
Want more? Check our Tips & Tricks for Sustainable Living and join the Environmental Action Committee at the free Climate Action Museum (300 S. Riverside Plaza) on Monday, September 18, at 4 pm. Together, we will learn more about what we can do to combat climate change. You can always email us at environment@lwvchicago.org.