Anyone who subscribes the KISS (Keep it Simple, Stupid) philosophy will appreciate the results of this new study recently completed by Thomas Dietz and his colleagues at Michigan State University.

In a first of its kind study, the researchers examined the potential emissions reduction (PER) of 17 well-known energy saving actions that individuals already do or could do without any major lifestyle disruption and minimal to little damage to the wallet.

What they found was that if these 17 simple household actions were universally adopted by Americans, US carbon emissions could be reduced as much as 7% over the next 10 years. The actions include:

– Home weatherization

– HVAC equipment

– Changing HVAC air filters

– Tuning up AC

– Installing low-flow showerheads

– Using an efficient water heater

– Using energy saving appliances

– Buying low rolling-resistance tires

– Driving a fuel-efficient vehicle

– Sticking to routine auto maintenance

– Lowering the laundry temperature

– Lowering the water heater temperature

– Reducing standby electricity use

– Trying minor thermostat setbacks

– Line drying clothes

– Employing conservative driving behavior

– Carpooling and trip-chaining

They’re easy changes all. So, the next time someone asks you what the average person can really do to combat global warming, you can say that according to Dietz and colleagues, plenty.

Image: Andy_5322

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