13 Ways We Can Change the World: All the Low-Hanging Fruit

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In today’s climate-conscious world, we are continually seeking practical, inexpensive solutions that can be implemented right now to mitigate the effects of climate change and improve our environment. Here are thirteen straightforward actions that can make a significant impact.

1. Converting Coal-Fired Power Plants to Natural Gas

A significant portion of pollutants from electrical generation comes from coal-fired power plants. Converting just 1,500 of the 29,000 coal plants worldwide to natural gas could drastically reduce carbon emissions, as natural gas burns cleaner than coal.

The International Energy Agency reports that switching from coal to natural gas can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 50%. This transition can provide a quicker, less expensive path to reducing carbon compared to developing new renewable energy sources from scratch. It’s must easier to save energy rather than create it.

Real-Life Examples of Conversion

Chattanooga, Tennessee

Chattanooga is a prime example of a community that has benefited from converting coal-fired power plants to natural gas. The Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) converted the John Sevier Fossil Plant from coal to natural gas in 2012.

Environmental Benefits:

• Emission Reductions: The conversion resulted in a significant reduction in emissions. The TVA reported a 99% decrease in SO2 emissions and an 80% reduction in NOx emissions. CO2 emissions were also halved.
• Air Quality Improvement: The improved air quality has had positive health impacts on the local population, reducing respiratory issues and other pollution-related health problems.

Joliet, Illinois

NRG Energy converted the Joliet 29 power plant from coal to natural gas in 2016. This plant, located in a densely populated area, now operates with much lower environmental impact.

Environmental Benefits:

• Reduction in Greenhouse Gases: The conversion cut CO2 emissions by more than 60%, aligning with Illinois’ state goals for emission reductions.
• Economic and Environmental Synergy: Besides reducing emissions, the conversion created jobs and leveraged existing infrastructure, demonstrating that environmental and economic benefits can go hand-in-hand.

Salem Harbor, Massachusetts

The Salem Harbor Power Station in Massachusetts transitioned from coal to natural gas in 2017. The plant was replaced with a new natural gas facility, significantly improving the environmental footprint of power generation in the area.

RELATED CONTENT: HOW TO SAVE ENERGY IN YOUR HOUSEHOLD

2. Solar Panel Parking Lots

One innovative approach that has been gaining traction is the installation of solar panels in parking lots. These panels are elevated, providing shade for parked vehicles while generating clean energy. This dual-purpose setup not only reduces reliance on fossil fuels but also keeps cars cooler, reducing the need for air conditioning and, consequently, fuel consumption.

For example, Walmart has been installing solar canopies in their parking lots across California. These installations generate clean electricity and reduce the urban heat island effect. According to a study by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory, these systems can also improve the efficiency of the solar panels by keeping them cooler.

3. Safer, Smaller Nuclear Power Plants

I know this is controversial, but we need nuclear power if we’re going to transition to renewable energy. Modern nuclear power plant designs are smaller, safer, and more efficient than their predecessors. Building these plants, along with considering even smaller modular reactors, can provide a reliable source of low-carbon energy to help reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.

New designs, such as the Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) developed by companies like NuScale Power, offer enhanced safety features and lower costs. These reactors can be built more quickly and in more locations than traditional nuclear plants, making them a viable option for increasing low-carbon energy production.

4. Farmer Managed Natural Restoration: The Crescent Moon Strategy

Farmer Managed Natural Restoration (FMNR) is a cost-effective way to combat desertification and improve soil fertility. The crescent moon strategy involves creating small, crescent-shaped pits in the ground that collect water and organic material. This technique helps to rehabilitate degraded land, promoting the growth of vegetation and enhancing biodiversity.

In Niger, this method has been highly successful, allowing farmers to reclaim degraded lands and improve crop yields. The World Agroforestry Centre reports that FMNR practices have restored over 5 million hectares of land in Niger alone, demonstrating the potential of this simple yet effective strategy.

5. Cleaning Up the Great Pacific Garbage Patch

Efforts to clean up the Great Pacific Garbage Patch are ongoing and essential. Initiatives like The Ocean Cleanup project aim to remove vast amounts of plastic waste from our oceans. By deploying advanced cleanup systems, these projects are helping to restore marine ecosystems and prevent further pollution.

The Ocean Cleanup has developed a passive drifting system that captures plastic debris, which is then collected and removed from the ocean. As of 2021, they have successfully extracted thousands of tons of plastic, showcasing the effectiveness of their technology.

As plastic debris breaks down into smaller pieces, it forms microplastics, which are extremely difficult to remove from the environment and pose significant risks to marine life and ecosystems. By removing larger pieces of plastic before they degrade, we can prevent the formation of these harmful microplastics. Research indicates that the GPGP contains an estimated 1.8 trillion pieces of plastic, weighing approximately 80,000 metric tons. Removing this debris can substantially reduce the future burden of microplastics.

Plastics in the ocean can absorb and concentrate harmful chemicals like persistent organic pollutants (POPs). These chemicals can then enter the food chain when marine organisms ingest plastic debris, leading to bioaccumulation and biomagnification of toxins. Removing plastic waste from the GPGP reduces the concentration of these hazardous substances in marine ecosystems, protecting both wildlife and human health. A study published in the journal Science Advances found that plastics can carry pollutants at concentrations up to 1,000 times higher than those found in surrounding seawater.

6. Massive Tree Planting Projects

Tree planting is one of the most effective ways to combat climate change. Projects like the Trillion Tree Campaign aim to plant a trillion trees worldwide, which can absorb massive amounts of CO2, restore habitats, and improve biodiversity. By expanding our planet’s “lungs,” we can make a significant dent in global carbon levels.

The United Nations’ Decade on Ecosystem Restoration emphasizes the importance of reforestation efforts. In countries like India, large-scale tree planting initiatives have been launched, such as planting 66 million trees in just 12 hours in Madhya Pradesh.

The Disparity in Tree Canopy Coverage

In many cities across the world, there is a noticeable disparity in tree canopy coverage between high-income and low-income neighborhoods. Tree canopies provide essential benefits, including shade, cooler temperatures, and improved air quality. However, low-income neighborhoods often have significantly fewer trees, leading to a range of environmental and health impacts. if you would like to sponsor a tree planting check out One Tree Planted.

Urban Heat Islands in Low-Income Areas

One of the most significant consequences of reduced tree canopy in low-income neighborhoods is the exacerbation of the urban heat island (UHI) effect. The UHI effect occurs when urban areas become significantly warmer than their rural surroundings due to human activities and infrastructure. The lack of trees and green spaces in low-income areas means that there are fewer natural cooling mechanisms, such as shade and evapotranspiration.

Statistics Highlighting the Issue:

• A study published in the journal Environmental Research Letters found that urban neighborhoods with the lowest tree canopy coverage can be up to 7°F (3.9°C) warmer than those with the highest tree coverage.
• According to the U.S. Forest Service, low-income neighborhoods often have 15% less tree cover compared to wealthier areas.

Increasing the number of plants and trees in urban environments has numerous benefits. Green spaces can reduce urban heat islands, improve air quality, and provide residents with healthier, more pleasant living conditions. Urban planting initiatives can transform cities into more sustainable and livable spaces.

Cities like Singapore have embraced this approach by integrating vertical gardens and green roofs throughout the city. The benefits include reduced temperatures, improved air quality, and enhanced urban biodiversity.

7. Enhancing City Reflectivity and Heat Management

Making our cities more reflective can reduce their heat signature. This involves painting roofs, concrete, and asphalt surfaces in lighter colors to reflect more sunlight. Expanding green spaces where water availability permits also helps to cool urban areas and improve overall environmental quality.

Painting roofs white can reduce energy costs by as much as 40%, according to the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory. This simple change can reflect more sunlight and decrease the amount of heat absorbed by buildings, leading to significant energy savings.

White Roofs in New York City

New York City has been a pioneer in the implementation of cool roofs. The NYC CoolRoofs program encourages building owners to coat their roofs with a reflective white paint. This initiative has been highly successful, with over 10 million square feet of rooftops coated since its inception in 2009.

Benefits:

• According to the NYC CoolRoofs program, a white roof can reduce a building’s temperature by up to 40%, significantly lowering energy costs for cooling.
• The program has helped reduce the city’s overall temperature, contributing to a decrease in the UHI effect and improving air quality.
• It is estimated that for every 2,500 square feet of cool roof installed, carbon emissions are reduced by one metric ton per year.

Reflective Pavements in Los Angeles

Los Angeles has also taken significant steps to combat the UHI effect by implementing reflective pavements. The city’s Cool Pavement Program involves applying a reflective coating to streets and sidewalks to reduce surface temperatures.

Benefits:

• A pilot project in the San Fernando Valley showed that the reflective coating reduced pavement temperatures by up to 10°F (5.6°C).
• The cooler surfaces contribute to lower ambient temperatures in the surrounding areas, reducing the need for air conditioning and associated energy consumption.
• The reduction in surface temperatures helps prolong the lifespan of the pavements, decreasing maintenance costs and environmental impact from repairs.

Statistics:

• The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that cool roofs can reduce energy use by up to 15% in air-conditioned buildings.
• In hot climates, reflective roofs can lower peak cooling demand by 10-15%, reducing the strain on electrical grids and lowering the risk of blackouts.

Improved Air Quality

Lower urban temperatures reduce the formation of ground-level ozone, a key component of smog. Smog formation is accelerated by higher temperatures, so by cooling urban areas, the incidence of smog and associated respiratory problems can be reduced.

8. Fixing Methane Leaks from Oil and Gas Extraction

Methane is a potent greenhouse gas, and its leakage from oil and gas extraction processes is a major environmental concern. A global effort to repair these leaks can significantly cut down on methane emissions, providing an immediate and substantial benefit to our atmosphere.

The Environmental Defense Fund (EDF) estimates that fixing methane leaks could cut global methane emissions by 40% within a decade. Technologies such as infrared cameras and advanced sensors can detect and address leaks more efficiently.

BP is one of the worst corporations in the world, but after the Deepwater Horizon oil spill. BP’s Leak Detection and Repair Program implemented a comprehensive leak detection and repair (LDAR) program across its U.S. operations. They use infrared cameras, drones, and handheld sensors. Enhanced leak detection allowed for timely repairs, reducing both the environmental impact and the loss of valuable natural gas. BP reported a 50% reduction in methane emissions from their operations between 2016 and 2019.

9. Safer, Smaller Nuclear Power Plants

Modern nuclear power plant designs are smaller, safer, and more efficient than their predecessors. Building these plants, along with considering even smaller modular reactors, can provide a reliable source of low-carbon energy to help reduce our dependence on fossil fuels.

New designs, such as the Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) developed by companies like NuScale Power, offer enhanced safety features and lower costs. These reactors can be built more quickly and in more locations than traditional nuclear plants, making them a viable option for increasing low-carbon energy production.

NuScale Power is a leading company in the development of SMRs. Their design has received approval from the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission (NRC), making it the first SMR to achieve this milestone. The Utah Associated Municipal Power Systems (UAMPS) plans to deploy NuScale SMRs to replace aging coal-fired plants, with the first plant expected to be operational by the late 2020s.This deployment will provide clean, reliable energy and contribute to UAMPS’ goal of reducing carbon emissions.

10. Building Desalination Plants

To address water shortages, there should be an international effort to build desalination plants, including financial support for countries that lack the resources to invest in this technology. Desalination can provide a sustainable water supply for both drinking and agriculture in arid regions.

Countries like Australia have successfully implemented large-scale desalination projects, providing a significant portion of their water supply. The Perth Seawater Desalination Plant is a crucial component of Western Australia’s water strategy, supplying water to the Perth metropolitan area. Perth’s plant ensures a continuous water supply regardless of climatic conditions, supporting sustainable urban growth. The plant produces 140,000 cubic meters of water per day, accounting for approximately 17% of Perth’s water supply.

11. Global Education Campaigns

Educating people worldwide about sustainable practices, from arid farming techniques to survival strategies for extreme weather, is crucial. A well-informed population is better equipped to make environmentally friendly choices and adapt to changing conditions.

Farming First is a coalition of multi-stakeholder organizations that promotes sustainable agricultural practices through advocacy, education, and outreach. It focuses on providing farmers with the knowledge and tools needed to increase productivity, improve food security, and adapt to climate change.

Key Features:

• Educational Resources: Farming First offers a comprehensive range of educational materials, including infographics, videos, case studies, and reports on sustainable farming practices.
• Global Outreach: The coalition operates globally, with a strong presence in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, reaching millions of farmers.
• Policy Advocacy: Farming First engages in policy advocacy to support the adoption of sustainable agriculture policies at local, national, and international levels.

12. Reducing Livestock Emissions

Livestock farming contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, particularly methane. Increasing the use of plant-based nutrients in livestock diets, we can reduce these emissions and lessen the environmental impact of agriculture. Studies have shown that certain dietary changes, such as adding seaweed to cattle feed, can reduce methane emissions by up to 80%.

Australia: Researchers at the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) have conducted extensive trials on seaweed supplements. In collaboration with Meat and Livestock Australia, they found that adding just 2% of dried Asparagopsis taxiformis to the feed of cattle can reduce methane emissions by over 80%. This breakthrough has led to commercial trials and plans for large-scale implementation.

Another option is manure conversion. The Vermont Dairy Farm Sustainability Project has implemented anaerobic digesters on multiple dairy farms. These digesters capture methane from manure and convert it into biogas, which is used to generate electricity. This project has not only reduced greenhouse gas emissions but also provided an additional revenue stream for farmers through the sale of renewable energy.

13. Composting Green Material in Cities and Rural Areas

Composting is an effective way to recycle organic waste, turning it into valuable compost that enriches soil and promotes plant growth. Both urban and rural areas can benefit significantly from composting programs. Here’s a detailed look at how different communities have successfully implemented composting initiatives and the environmental benefits they’ve achieved.

Composting in Urban Areas

San Francisco, California

San Francisco is a leading example of successful urban composting. The city implemented a mandatory composting program in 2009, requiring residents and businesses to separate compostable materials from their waste.

Program Highlights:

• San Francisco provides green bins for collecting food scraps, yard waste, and other compostable materials.
• The collected organic waste is transported to composting facilities where it is processed into nutrient-rich compost.

Iowa City Rural Composting Program

Program Overview

Iowa City’s composting program is designed to serve both urban and rural residents, providing a comprehensive solution for managing organic waste. The program includes curbside collection, drop-off sites, and educational resources to encourage composting among residents and businesses.

Key Components:

• Curbside Collection: Residents can participate in curbside collection of yard waste, food scraps, and other compostable materials. These materials are collected in designated bins and transported to a centralized composting facility.
• Drop-off Sites: For those who do not have access to curbside collection, Iowa City offers several drop-off locations where residents can bring their organic waste.
• Compost Facility: The city operates a large-scale composting facility that processes collected organic materials into high-quality compost, which is then made available to the public for gardening and landscaping.

Real-Life Impact

Statistics and Achievements:

• Waste Diversion: Since the implementation of the composting program, Iowa City has diverted thousands of tons of organic waste from landfills annually. In 2020 alone, the city diverted over 2,500 tons of yard waste and food scraps.
• Community Participation: The program has seen growing participation rates, with an increasing number of households and businesses opting for curbside collection and drop-off services.
• Environmental Impact: The reduction in methane emissions and the production of high-quality compost have contributed to improved air and soil quality in the region.

Conclusion

We are facing challenging years ahead, but by implementing these practical, inexpensive changes, we can make a significant impact on the climate. It’s time to stop debating and start acting on these simple solutions to create a healthier, more sustainable world for future generations.

FAQs

1. How do solar panel parking lots benefit the environment? Solar panel parking lots generate clean energy while providing shade for vehicles, reducing fuel consumption and reliance on fossil fuels.

2. What is the crescent moon strategy in FMNR? The crescent moon strategy involves creating pits in the ground to collect water and organic material, promoting vegetation growth and soil fertility.

3. Why is cleaning up the Great Pacific Garbage Patch important? Removing plastic waste from the oceans helps restore marine ecosystems and prevents further pollution, benefiting both the environment and marine life.

4. How do urban green spaces impact cities? Urban green spaces reduce heat islands, improve air quality, and provide healthier living conditions, making cities more sustainable and livable.

5. What is the Trillion Trees Proposal? The Trillion Trees Proposal aims to plant a trillion trees worldwide to absorb CO2, restore habitats, and improve biodiversity, helping to combat climate change.