‘Forget expensive gadgets’ to help tackle climate emergency, says Highland Councilor Trish Robertson
Frustrated by the lack of simple solutions for climate action, a Highland adviser outlined a number of ways to improve your carbon footprint.
Councilor Trish Robertson, who heads the Highland Council’s Climate Challenges Committee, says taking easy action is affordable for everyone.
After being shocked at the costs of “gimmick” solutions such as cars and e-bikes, Cllr Robertson said she was an average mother and grandmother – like most people, she would find buying one out. of its price range.
She said: “We need to pay more attention to practical solutions and forget about the extra gadgets that appeal to the minority,” she said. “If we are all to convert, then these must be for everyone.
“The answer to the decarbonization of the heavy fleet is hydrogen, but it is still in the testing stage.
“It was good to have recently tested the hydrogen bus in the Highlands. But the pandemic has caused a setback as social distancing has made bus transport an unwanted option – we urgently need to find a way to bring people not to use cars, there is a lot of work to be done.
She also wants to see a reduction in plastic.
“The use of single-use plastics has also increased, which was inevitable, but it cannot be maintained at current levels,†said Cllr Robertson.
“Legislation alone will not get us to the finish line. We can do a lot as individuals by changing the way we live, work and play.
“We all walked more during the lockdown and this may continue as we return to normal life.
“Now it’s time for a change. “
Cllr Robertson suggested a list of simple changes every household can make that won’t incur additional costs, but will help reduce carbon emissions:
- Walk wherever you can
- Ride a bike as often as you can
- Lower your heating one degree
- Wear an extra layer if you are sitting
- Save water by not running the tap while brushing your teeth
- Fill the kettle with only the amount you need
- Serve smaller portions and put leftovers in the freezer
- Make a shopping list and stick to it
She added, “With food and fuel prices rising rapidly, taking these steps now will benefit every household. We can all take at least one of these simple steps to help our planet, and each has a personal benefit to our health and pockets.
“We can contribute and ensure a healthy environment for generations to come.”
