The big switch

To slow climate change, we need to transform our homes, buildings, cars, and economy quickly. Learn how to rebuild the energy systems all around us.

TypeResource

LanguagesEnglish

People & orgsDr. Melissa C. Lott

Topics∼ 30 minutes ∼ 30 minutes All Major Platforms+6All Major Platforms Climate Solutions Energy & Renewables Irregular Irregular Women

Year2021

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About The big switch

To slow climate change, we need to transform our homes, buildings, cars, and economy quickly. "The Big Switch" explains how to rebuild the energy systems all around us. Dr. Melissa Lott of Columbia University brings together historical examples, current events, and incisive analysis to give listeners a deep understanding of the solutions to climate change.

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Climate actions

Steps this helps you take.

Conduct an energy audit for your home
Conducting an energy audit for your home is something not everyone can do. Those that do own a house or apartment where they can make these changes should consider it. The result will give you clarity how you free your property from fossil fuels and make it more independant and how much it will cost. You may realise that you can save money with going fully electric, installing solar, heat pumps, adding a wallbox or insulation. Usually these assessments are free and get you started into the right direction.
Switch to a renewable energy provider at home
The phase out of fossil fuels is a key requirement for a sustainable and liveable future. You can accelerate that transition and send the right market signal, buy switching to a renewable energy provider at home. Renewable energy mainly comes from wind, solar, hydro or bioenergy. Some people are concerned about the the impact on nature with renewable energy. However the numbers couldn't be clearer. Renewable energy are better for biodiversity, cause less deaths both for humans and animals, produce cleaner air, and have less GHG emissions with is key towards a net zero, low-carbon world.
Vote a climate-first party in the next election
Voting is one of the most effective (climate) actions for people in democracies and it's super simple too. Climate-focused parties will try to renew the economy into a low-carbon, sustainable and just world for everyone! Sometimes it can feel that these parties want to "take something away" from people. The truth is, they follow the scientific consensus and try to find ways to avoid the worst effects of climate change (which will derail the global economy and life as we know it if we don't act). When you look closely, many of the sustainable alternatives needed for a sustainable and just world like electric cars, great public transport everywhere, long-distance high-speed trains, heat pumps or even bike friendly cities will improve the life for everyone. Just and fair also means that these changes are made step by step and with low income households and rural areas in mind. They will most likely get more support. Please use your political voice to bring about a sustainable and just world.
Make your home climate neutral and independent
Once you completed your home energy audit, you know what the most effective ways are to transition to a low carbon, electrified home are. Make sure to work with professionals who know the current subsidies for your region and how you can combine different systems best like insulation, solar, energy storage, heat pump, power wall or charging station. Also don't forget to share your hopefully positive experience with your neighbours, friends, community and colleagues to spread the word and start a movement.
Switch to an electric car
Some people rely on a car e.g. in rural areas or people with special needs. If you can afford an electric car and don't have a shared alternative available to you, go do the switch. While you are at it. Advocate for more shared options like public transport, bike infrastructure or car sharing. Living car free has a bigger impact than going electric with many side benefits. This will help create a fair and just world for all.
Talk about climate action & sustainability with your friends and communities
Sharing your sustainability and climate action journey is very powerful. Studies show that when one home installs solar panels, their direct neighbours are more likely to also install solar panels. Especially people that trust you are likely to adopt habits and practices of you and vice versa. This is huge. Simply share your positive experiences with sustainable alternatives, your struggle and fear about the climate crisis. No need to directly convince people. Sharing your feelings and positive stories is often enough to spark action in others.