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Climate Resolutions: Seven Climate Actions

Tackling climate change in Maine truly can’t wait - and we can each play a part. We invite you to join us in resolving to take climate action this year. To help you get your climate resolutions started, here are seven climate actions you can take for your home, business and community.

Thank you for stepping up to the climate action challenge.

Climate Resolution Action 1: Discover creative and practical ways to drive less.

Why? Transportation is the leading cause of Maine’s greenhouse gas emissions. Find ways to green your transportation - while still getting where you need to go. 

Climate Resolution Action 2: Switch to LED lighting

Installing energy-efficient LED lighting is easy and cost-effective. See how much you can save with Efficiency Maine's simple savings calculator (link) and find a list of the best prices on LED bulbs at retailers around Maine. 

Climate Resolution Action 3: Learn about renewable energy options
As rising star in renewable energy Jessie Rule reminds us: “it's not as complicated and scary as it may seem to own your own electricity production. Solar, specifically, is becoming more efficient, cost effective, and easy to install as time goes on. Also, if your home is not suitable for solar, that is not the end of the road. Community Solar Farms are a great option for those who cannot have solar at their home, or are renters.”

Climate Resolution Action 4: Learn about resilience grants for Maine municipalities

The Community Resilience Partnership offers grants and technical assistance to municipal and tribal governments for projects to make communities more resilient to climate change and incorporate clean energy into operations. Maine communities can find assistance for projects to reduce carbon emissions, transition to clean energy, and become more resilient to climate change effects such as extreme weather, flooding, rising sea levels, public health impacts, and more. Learn more and encourage your elected officials to enroll. https://www.maine.gov/future/climate/community-resilience-partnership 

Climate Resolution Action 5: Unplug devices 

Did you know leaving electronic devices plugged into outlets uses energy even when they are not charging? Simply unplugging your fully charged electronics and moving rarely used devices to power strips on timers significantly reduces your home’s energy use. Speaking of power strips, using a power strip can reduce “phantom” energy loads that holiday decorations and other devices can create. This easy climate action can save you energy and money that you weren't planning to spend. Find more energy and money saving tips with our “Green Your Home” actions list.

Climate Resolution Action 6: Talk to Your Neighbors
Proactive communities start with conversations. Start or join community climate conversations in your local library, church, community center or town meetings. Get to know your neighbors, particularly those who might be vulnerable to heat or flooding. Find tips, workbooks and workshops on ways to talk to your neighbors about climate change: https://maineclimatetable.org/communications-workshops/

Climate Resolution Action 7: Schedule an energy assessment

An energy assessment of your home or your business is a great step toward reducing energy waste and saving money. Residential energy advisors perform various tests to determine things like where air (and heat!) may be escaping from your home and advise on the best energy saving opportunities. For businesses, a qualified efficiency contractor can evaluate building insulation, check for upgrades and advise on choosing energy efficient equipment. Assessment costs vary by home and assessment types.

Find qualified vendors: https://www.efficiencymaine.com/at-home/vendor-locator/