How does driving more slowly sound? Or ditching the car altogether on a Sunday, or even turning off your vehicle’s air conditioning?
These are just a few emergency climate measures proposed by the International Energy Agency to help reduce global energy demand.
In a new 10-point plan, the IEA says certain changes to consumer behaviour, like these ones, could help the world cut its global oil consumption by 2.7 million barrels a day.
This amount is equivalent to more than half of Russia’s exports, and it could all be achieved within four months if decisive action is taken.
The current global supply totals around 100 million barrels per day and a reduction would significantly help to ease sky-high oil prices, while also aiding the environment.
Other immediate steps include reduced speed limits and cheaper public transport, helping move oil demand towards a more sustainable pathway.
WASTE MANAGEMENT CONCERNS: E.U. MICROPLASTICS SPREADING TO ARCTIC SEAS
Microplastics found in European rivers are now making their way into the Arctic seas as well, and it has scientists concerned.
While the exact cause of these on humans remains unknown… the tiny particles are harmful to wildlife.
Microplastics originate from a whole range of sources including clothing, car tyres and even cosmetics.
In a new study, the researchers found the new particles in the Arctic Ocean, the Nordic Seas and Baffin Bay can all be traced back to European waterways.
They warn the “circulation of microplastic through Arctic ecosystems may have large consequences to natural ecosystem health”.
This study highlights the ever-increasing need for better global waste management.
