5 ways to get on track to reduce your carbon footprint

Pawan Singh / The National

Lauren Lancaster / The National

Sarah Dea / The National

Christopher Pike / The National

The motivation to exercise comes from a desire for self-improvement, similar to eating better, which is, at its essence, about longevity. We want to feel and look better in the present, but also to stack the octogenarian odds in our favour. In contrast, the desire to be greener and act more responsibly towards the Earth stems from a more selfless motivation. When you make changes that affect the environment, such as bringing your own bags to the grocery store, or using a fan instead of an air conditioner at home, you are thinking of the greater good, finite resources, shifting weather patterns, and future generations who need clear air and water.

One way to overlap these two impulses – to improve oneself and the Earth – is to incorporate more movement into your day in ways that benefit the environment.

Here are five ways to go about it:

1. Become a stair master. Take the stairs instead of the lift to your office. This exercise burns more calories per minute than jogging, according to StepJockey, an app and website dedicated to workplace wellness and an active lifestyle. So, if you work on the 29th floor, take the lift three quarters of the way up and climb the rest of the way. For every 10 steps climbed you burn one calorie. And while walking down stairs is less rigorous, you do burn one calorie for every 20 steps, plus it helps tone the legs and glutes and improves balance and coordination. Invite colleagues to join in, add a floor every week and race each other to the top.

2. When the milk runs out, do the same. Many UAE neighbourhoods have small grocery stores. Instead of jumping into the car, throw an ice pack in your backpack and walk to the store. Depending on your weight, level of fitness and pace, walking burns between 90 to 200 calories in half an hour, according to the American Heart Association. On your return trip, the groceries act as weights, adding to the benefits you will reap.

3. Ride on. If you live near public transport, take advantage of the opportunity to burn fewer fossil fuels. If you normally travel on a road with Salik fees, the Dubai Metro is more economical to the rate of between Dh5 and Dh10 per ride. A 2008 study by the United States department of transportation found that almost 2,000 kilograms of carbon dioxide could be saved if one member of a household used public transport for 16km in each direction. In turn, you will reduce your carbon emissions by 75 per cent, compared to driving the same distance alone in a car. By walking to and from the metro or bus, you increase your movement, and while you're on the train or bus, you'll have time to read a book or newspaper.

4. Ditch the delivery menu and walk to lunch. The trip from your desk to a nearby lunch spot not only stimulates your appetite but also clears your head. Plus you're avoiding gas emissions from the delivery motorcycle. It's also a great way to explore the neighbourhood.

5. Cycle or walk to work. Some of us are fortunate enough to live within walking or biking distance of the office. If the route is safe, make your way there without a car – it'll save you the stress of fighting traffic and searching for parking. You might need to stash a change of shoes and an extra spritz of cologne in your desk drawer, but you will start the day fitter, with a clear mind and knowing you've played a part in being greener.