Energy
Switching to a ‘real’ green electricity provider
1
(0) no special tariff, (1) eco from the conventional provider, (2) eco from the local provider (3) with a pure green electricity provider
(0) no special tariff, (1) eco from the conventional provider, (2) eco from the local provider (3) with a pure green electricity provider
Your country most likely has real green electricity providers, as they purchase or implement the appropriate capacities of green electricity for each customer. The other electricity providers only offer an electricity mix. The share of green electricity is sold more expensive as an eco-tariff to some customers, while the other customers theoretically only receive the shares of gas, coal, etc.
http://www.imodeler.info/ro?key=CF8Gsu47BnYHLi5NHUWXKVA
0.44
Let the light burn unnecessarily
2
(0) happens constantly, (1) happens frequently, (2) happens rarely, (3) never happens
(0) happens constantly, (1) happens frequently, (2) happens rarely, (3) never happens
Modern lamps require little electricity, and yet it is worthwhile not to let them burn unnecessarily, for example when we are not in the room for a long time.
0.08
Housing, Buildings
Moderate living space (47 sqm/person)
0
(0) more than 47 sqm/person, (1) between 47 and 40, (2) between 40 and 30, (3) for less than 30
(0) more than 47 sqm/person, (1) between 47 and 40, (2) between 40 and 30, (3) for less than 30
The area that we need to live means the area that is sealed, the building material that is needed, and the space that needs to be heated - and all this against the background of social justice. When more people live in the household, they share rooms such as kitchen, living room or bathroom. In fact, the per capita area is constantly increasing because more older people live alone and longer in large houses and because there are more single households. Not everyone can now rebuild or move out, but those who take these steps can be proud to reduce the living space.
2.11
Lowered living room temperature (without mold)
3
(0) over 20 degrees, (1) 19-20, (2) 18, (3) 17
(0) over 20 degrees, (1) 19-20, (2) 18, (3) 17
In most living rooms and bedrooms it is too warm in winter - we walk around in a T-shirt instead of putting on thick sweaters and sweaters. The energy-saving potential is considerable. When lowering the temperature, attention must be paid to the indoor climate and the possible risk of mold formation. This depends above all on the humidity.
0.55
Intelligent ventilation
2
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) 100% of the times in the heating season
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) 100% of the times in the heating season
Intelligent ventilation does not mean too late and not too long. It is too late when we get tired when the air is used up, get a headache and the humidity becomes too high. It is too long when the air has already been replaced and is cool, but we also ventilate the materials (walls, furniture) even longer.
Heat ultimately means that things or air vibrate. When the air is exchanged, but the objects and walls are still vibrating, the fresh air is quickly heated. Even if the walls get cold, mold can form on them and we need expensive heating energy to make everything vibrate again.
By the way, CO2 measuring devices help to ventilate in time and not for too long. However, these should not be a useless gadget, but perhaps used for practice one after the other in the rooms and gladly lent. A nice game is the competition, how good the sense of the people in the room is to ventilate in time and not too long.
0.23
Nutrition
Vegan days
1
(0) none per week, (1) 1-3, (2) 4-6, (3) 7 days a week
(0) none per week, (1) 1-3, (2) 4-6, (3) 7 days a week
Vegan means refraining from fish, meat, milk, cheese and other animal foods. Unthinkable for many people, on the one hand because of the taste, and on the other hand because they consider it unhealthy.
To the taste, it can be said: Among the extremely diverse vegan alternatives, something certainly tastes just as good or even better. We just have to try it - from vegan cheese to egg salad to burgers. Many celebrities and athletes are vegan. Vegan is booming.
Regarding health, it must be said: Our early ancestors eat healthier than we eat today. There was mixed food with only little meat and fish and also little grain and instead more legumes. If you eat a vegan diet, you have to pay attention to two nutrients: vitamin B12 and unsaturated omega 3 fatty acids. B12 can be bought for sucking (or as an additive in foods that are no longer called organic). Omega 3 fatty acids are available in linseed and algae oil. After a few months vegan, a blood test can show whether there are deficiency symptoms. As a rule, vegans eat healthier and are fitter than others.
What else does it bring: In addition to ethical reasons (keeping and killing animals), vegans help to prevent the deforestation of forests, because most areas in the world need the feed. In fact, we will not be able to feed the growing world population in the way we Germans. Vegans also prevent greenhouse gases from the methane emissions of cows, save enormous amounts of drinking water and prevent the pollution of soils, groundwater and waters.
4.44
Vegetarian days
3
(0) none per week, (1) 1-3, (2) 4-6, (3) 7 days a week
(0) none per week, (1) 1-3, (2) 4-6, (3) 7 days a week
Unlike the vegan diet, a vegetarian diet can also include milk, cheese or eggs. Vegetarian days are healthy, mean less animal husbandry and thus less consumption of land and water.
People in the industrialized world consume more than three times more animal products, which according to the EAT-Lancet Commission would be healthy for us and the planet. We don't have to become vegans or vegetarians right away, but maybe just flexitarians.
3.01
Avoidance of food waste
2
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) I save or avoid 100% of the food to be thrown away
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) I save or avoid 100% of the food to be thrown away
Food is wasted from the field to the factories and transport routes to the throw away by us, the restaurants and the supermarkets. This ultimately means that more areas are needed for cultivation and thus forests are cut down and biodiversity is endangered with sprays and fertilizers.
We can shop more specifically, throw away goods not only because of the best before date, save food in the household (e.g. freeze bananas or make durable spreads and soups from leftover vegetables yourself), save specifically rescued food (e.g. too small or wrinkled goods) and also donate leftover food in many places, e.g. to the food banks.
0.83
Mobility
Electric vehicle
0
(0) Internal combustion engine, (1) electric car with more than 100kWh, (2) electric car with more than 50 kWh (3) electric car with less than 51 kWh
(0) Internal combustion engine, (1) electric car with more than 100kWh, (2) electric car with more than 50 kWh (3) electric car with less than 51 kWh
There are almost hostile prejudices against electric cars: child labor, coal power, risk of explosion, farmers are expropriated, fear of range, loss of value, etc. It is true: Like every car, electric cars are also a waste of raw materials and energy. But if car, then the electric car is the best solution, because gasoline and diesel perform even worse in all areas.
Many studies or Statements by laymen make a mistake: The controversial lithium must not only be counted with its footprint from mining, but this must be reduced by the many times that lithium is recycled again and again in the decades. In addition, what few know: Gasoline contains almost the same amount of electrical energy on 100km for production and transport as it is needed in an electric car for the journey.
E-cars would not have to be so expensive and batteries not so big - charging options are more important. Electricity at public charging stations is currently surprisingly expensive, although it would clearly be more important to add the costs of the climate catastrophe and air pollution to the gasoline and diesel price. http://www.imodeler.info/ro? key=Col-EWhyCbIR_KGGP7mXbLw
Hydrogen and synthetic fuels in cars are nonsense. There are so-called memes fuelled by individual interests (keyword "Lex Porsche" https://www.cleanthinking.de/lex-porsche-lindner-wissing-e-fuels/), 'ego trolls', which are picked up by 'Troll-Lemmingen', who simply like to be against something and do not want to change. With both fuels, green electricity is first generated and then with loss of efficiency to hydrogen or e-fuel. For e-fuels, carbon is also missing - already today, few airlines that have started with it have a problem buying carbon on the market.
Consideo has also gained important insights about hydrogen:
https://www.consideo.com/files/consideo/pdfs/papers/eng/ConsideoPaper-BEM-Engl.pdf
2.60
Waiver of air travel
0
(0) more than one per year, (1) one per year, (2) one every few years, (3) none or less often than every 5 years
(0) more than one per year, (1) one per year, (2) one every few years, (3) none or less often than every 5 years
Flying is a great experience for most people like experiencing distant places. Flying short distances should rightly lead to 'flight shame' - some countries are planning to ban domestic flights completely.
The problem with flying is, on the one hand, that we travel a lot of kilometers, even if the energy requirement per kilometer and person is not so high. On the other hand, greenhouse gases are transported directly to the heights where they harm us.
So we should only use the plane for rare long-distance trips and then rather stay longer in the places. Many, on the other hand, fly several times a year, partly within Europe - some even to sustainability conferences or just to spontaneously escape the harsh weather in Germany. Unfortunately, flying is even subsidized and is often cheaper than train or car.
0.83
Waiver of parental taxi
2
(0) no waiver, (1) most trips continue, (2) the fewest trips, (3) no trips with parent taxi
(0) no waiver, (1) most trips continue, (2) the fewest trips, (3) no trips with parent taxi
Parent taxis is the name for parents who drive their children to school and to numerous other events by car. There are generally alternatives to school, not always to other activities (sports club, music school, ....). In front of the schools, these parent taxis are a real danger for the other children and annoying for the school buses.
It is simply ruthless towards the other students.
Parents should at least organize carpools for leisure events.
0.23
Bicycle instead of car
1
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) always
(0) not at all, (1) less than 50%, (2) more than 50%, (3) always
No question - leaving the car and taking the bike is a proud feeling and healthy. If you don't want to exhaust yourself (for example, on the way to work), you can consider an e-bike. If you have a lot to transport, a cargo bike. Often we can also share a cargo bike with others. And if you shy away from bad weather, you will find great cycling clothing today, which completely refutes the argument.
0.55
Carpooling
3
(0) always drive individually, (1) every now and then, (2) mostly, (3) basically, if possible, driving with others
(0) always drive individually, (1) every now and then, (2) mostly, (3) basically, if possible, driving with others
Many routes and times are not served by public transport. It is often worthwhile to drive in the car together with others. Even if the car is left at home and the times have to be adjusted, it can make us proud to do the right thing with a view to a better world.
In addition to carpooling in the circle of acquaintances, there are also portals that organize carpooling - often also for longer trips.
0.39
Garbage
Buy unpacked
1
(0) never, (1) sometimes, (2) mostly, (3) always
(0) never, (1) sometimes, (2) mostly, (3) always
We are used to the fact that everything is packed and we don't care much about the packaging. For some foods, the packaging is more expensive in the production than the content. Paying attention to the packaging sends a signal to manufacturers and retailers.
For food, there are so-called unpackaged shops or at least the possibility of using deposit containers (own step) or cotton bags brought along for loose vegetables and fruit.
In basically all markets, we should have our own bags with us.
0.65
Separate garbage consistently
2
(0) not at all, (1) often, (2) mostly, (3) always, even on the go
(0) not at all, (1) often, (2) mostly, (3) always, even on the go
Consistently separating waste, including green waste, glass and paper, is not as self-evident as can be assumed. Many make little effort here and don't really know what belongs in which bin. But also special waste, such as batteries, incandescent lamps, electrical appliances, etc. must be disposed of properly.
0.65
Recycling-Paper
2
(0) never, (1) often, (2) mostly, (3) always
(0) never, (1) often, (2) mostly, (3) always
Non-recycled paper is often cheaper, but means cutting of forests, contamination of water during production and a high energy requirement.
Recycled paper for toilet paper, writing paper, packaging, envelopes, wrapping paper, etc. should be a matter of course today. But we have to pay attention to it and choose it.
Recycled paper is also snow-white, but it should then not be bleached with chlorine but oxygen.
1.23
Paperless office/media
1
(0) not at all, (1) some, (2) most, (3) all only digital.
(0) not at all, (1) some, (2) most, (3) all only digital.
Saving paper helps to protect forests - recycling paper also ultimately means more demand for fresh pulp from trees.
We don't even need to print many things in the first place, but can save them on devices that we already have. Banks and insurance companies offer to carry out the correspondence purely electronically and to save a lot of paper.
Of course, there is also a big question as to whether we do not consume books and magazines better digitally. Well, if we already have the devices anyway, downloading and saving are the better alternative for the environment. If we buy extra devices and then hardly use them, the ecological footprint of the devices is greater than that of the saved paper. By the way, the winner is the library/lend library.
But books are also a nice experience and if we know what's in them, also a nice decoration for our apartments. Magazines, on the other hand, are not very timeless, and if we need articles later, the online search is easier before.
0.61
Flea markets, repair cafes, classified ads instead of throwing away
3
(0) not at all, (1) often, (2) mostly, (3) always
(0) not at all, (1) often, (2) mostly, (3) always
Many things are actually thrown away, although others could still do something with it. It is more convenient for us not to repair it than to have a stand at the flea market or to have to send it for little money. But the good feeling of doing the right thing motivates.
0.24
Social
Fair trade products
1
(0) not at all, (1) often, (2) mostly, (3) always, even on the go
(0) not at all, (1) often, (2) mostly, (3) always, even on the go
At Fair-Trade, we usually think of the label of the same name - which is no longer in disrepute. But there are also other labels - some rather greenwashing, some quite trying to do better. Fair is not always the same as organic and organic is not always fair (but some labels combine both).
The importance is immense: fair working conditions in the world ensure less migration, more climate protection and a more peaceful world.
Extremely remarkable is the background of chocolate and the connection between child slavery (!) And the common products from Nutella to children's chocolate to the Mars bar: https://edition.cnn.com/world/freedom-project
3.20
Volunteering
1
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) much, (3) maximum
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) much, (3) maximum
Volunteering, whether at the fire brigade, in the sports club or the help in the neighborhood, is enormously important for togetherness and society.
0.74
Active political participation
1
(0) doesn't care me, (1) in social media, (2) on demos, (3) help organize your own activities
(0) doesn't care me, (1) in social media, (2) on demos, (3) help organize your own activities
We experience what happens all over the world when the successful depend on large parts of society: radical currents get influx, the climate catastrophe is denied, hatred against foreigners but also against their own politicians is stoked.
Some "ego trolls" who want to punch through their interests are deliberately playing with such a breeding ground when, for example, conservative parties speak of ideology with the progressive parties or an automobile boss is against vaccination in order not to have to close his works, or others complain against wind power and e-mobility and pro-nuclear power without any expertise. Dissatisfied citizens take this up as 'troll lemmings', feel they belong to the common enemy images and complain on social media against everything that means change towards future viability. It is the fight for so-called memes and no longer, as in the past, solely for sovereignty of interpretation, especially since the experts agree on most questions.
As uncomfortable as it is, we should therefore stand against it in social media and not wave off in frustration. In our environment, we can also get together with others and talk about politics or the design of togetherness - even if many do not want to talk about politics privately at all, because they have an opinion, but not the feeling that they can support it themselves. For example, there is the Open Society Day and regionally certainly many other initiatives. Politicians can motivate, join a party, go to public council meetings, and participate in demonstrations. Having been to Fridays for Future once is an experience! Companies can show attitude! Ideology is not the opinion of the other, but what is not scientifically proven robustly (i.e. more than a single study).
0.96
Organ and blood donations
3
(0) not at all, (1) blood or organ, (2) blood and organ, (3) blood, organ and bone marrow
(0) not at all, (1) blood or organ, (2) blood and organ, (3) blood, organ and bone marrow
Both organ and blood and plasma donations or even bone marrow donations cost us overcoming - until we or our loved ones are dependent on it.
Here, too, the same applies - those who do it can be proud of themselves.
1.60
Clothes
Wearing old clothes, second hand
2
(0) not at all, (1) every now and then, (2) often, (3) basically
(0) not at all, (1) every now and then, (2) often, (3) basically
Many enjoy the variety through new garments or simply grow quickly. If you only wear clothes for shorts, you should try second clothes and at least sell your no longer worn clothes or donate to a social shop. Others wear few pieces of clothing without a claim to variety until they fall apart. Of course, this is best done with higher-quality garments.
2.18
Renunciation of leather
3
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
Vegan shoes and belts are no longer distinguishable from their leather variants. And who pays attention to the fact that the tanning processes do not allow heavy metals to enter the environment or that the leather is certified accordingly?
We should be careful with some plastics, such as PVC with plasticizers, which are also not good for the environment.
0.59
Other Consumption
Used or long-lived furniture
1
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
Many furniture cannot stand being moved or even disassembled and reassembled. They are primarily cheap and the business model is that after a few years we want to buy new furniture. Looking at how valuable the furniture is and then being able to repair it takes us a whole lot further on the way to a better world. It is also amazing what good pieces there are on the used market.
1.30
Waiver of leaf vacuums and blowers
3
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
Leaf vacuums and blowsers are even worse than the idea of mowing small lawns with a large lawn mowing tractor at all and then for hours. Boys with toys. The leaf vacuums and blowers emit noise and ultrafine particles and harm the soil organisms more than rakes or brooms.
0.11
Used, long-used devices
3
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
Many devices from vacuum cleaners to cordless screwdrivers to TVs are amazingly inexpensive today. Relying on valuable devices that last a long time, or even buying used devices, helps to save raw materials and energy. Look for refurbished products.
1.30
Borrow (neighbors, DIY store, ...), Lend
3
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
Precisely because devices are so inexpensive, we tend to buy all kinds of devices ourselves and not borrow them, whether from the neighbors or from the tool rental company. The large DIY stores now all offer a rental service.
0.65
Repairing instead of buying new
2
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
Unfortunately, many devices can no longer be repaired at all, for example if the control unit breaks down from the washing machine and costs more than a new washing machine. And yet there are workshops that also repair mobile phones, washing machines, lawn mowers, etc. - and even if it is as expensive as a new device, it is the good feeling of having done something for a better world again.
0.65
Renunciation of gadgets (robots, electric children's toys...)
1
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
Having something new makes you happy. We are offered more and more technical products, from flashing children's shoes to cheap e-scooters to the grill with a built-in fan. To consider here whether it can also be done without it and how long the devices will last and what the disposal of such electronic waste means emancipates us from the consumer traps.
0.65
Renunciation of fireworks and firecrackers
3
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
Firecrackers and fireworks are a problem in every respect: for the animal world, the environment and the people who produce them. The ultrafine particles pollution is horrendous. And all this only because people (mostly men) hope for attention and admiration about this.
0.25
Avoid returns in online trading
2
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
(0) not at all, (1) sometimes, (2) often, (3) basically
Returns have become a big problem - many returns are simply burned because the logistics are more expensive than the goods. Especially with clothing, we should research for detailed size specifications so that the clothing also fits. Simply ordering three sizes and of course sending two back is a waste of energy and resources. But other products would not have to be returned if we researched better beforehand whether they meet our expectations.
0.32
Non-sustainable hobbies
2
(0) have which, (1) very rare, (2) make them environmentally friendly, (3) have none,
(0) have which, (1) very rare, (2) make them environmentally friendly, (3) have none,
This does not refer to the skater track or the artificial turf sports field, but motorsport, skiing on artificially snowy slopes, kiting in bird protection areas, sailboats with biocides on the underwater ship, golfing with high use of water and pesticides, quad rides into nature, skydiving, etc. Of course, these hobbies are fun, which is why it is rewarded if we actively choose the more environmentally friendly alternatives here and thus achieve a rethink with others.
1.00