The start of a new year gives us the chance to reflect on the past and look forward to the things we hope to accomplish. If you’re looking to increase your environmental stewardship in 2021, here are some ideas to get you started.

1. Electrify

Switch to electric appliances to make your home more sustainable. Compared to traditional gas appliances, electric appliances are more energy efficient and produce fewer pollutants. Consider swapping your gas stove for a more energy-efficient induction stove and switching to heat pumps for your water and space heating needs. Heat pump water heater rebates are available to homeowners and qualified installers and contractors in MCE’s service area.

2. Bike More, Drive Less

Biking instead of driving reduces your transportation-related emissions. Biking not only helps California reduce greenhouse gas emissions from one of its most polluting sectors, but it also helps you save money and stay active in the new year.

3. Shop Green

Shop more sustainably by supporting businesses that run on 100% renewable energy. Check out MCE’s Deep Green Meister to see which businesses have made a commitment to clean energy in your area. Consider opting for curbside pick-up or delivery to support local businesses while under shelter-in-place orders.

4. Eat Less Meat

Animal agriculture is one of the main contributors to global greenhouse gas emissions. Reducing your meat intake is an effective way to lower your carbon footprint and a good excuse to expand your cooking repertoire. If you’re not ready to cut meat out of your diet entirely, try going meatless one day a week.

5. Invest in Energy Storage

Invest in home energy storage (aka, battery storage) to increase your energy’s renewable content. Energy storage stores energy during times of the day that energy comes from renewable sources like solar and wind. This energy can then be used in your home when energy from the grid comes from less renewable sources. Even homes that don’t have rooftop solar installed can take advantage of battery storage. Home storage helps reduce your energy bill and lower your electricity-related carbon footprint.