As humans, we all mean good. Ordinary consumers, enterprises and governments have all joined efforts to tackle climate change or, at the least, limit our impact on the environment. But the reality is that we're limited in our capabilities and our understanding of the challenge ahead. We won't be able to make significant progress without smart data-driven tech to support us. Which is why digital retrofits of homes should become a standard measure alongside more traditional approaches such as insulation.
A recent international survey conducted by Schneider Electric found that consumers considerably underestimate the effect they and their homes are having on the planet. They believe that industry causes 50% of all Greenhouse Gas (GHG)emissions while our homes only emit 7-8%.But the reality is quite different. Buildings and construction alone account for over 35% of global final energy use and nearly 40% of energy-related CO2 emissions. In the U.S., for example, over a fifth of all emissions are directly attributed to household consumption.
Additionally, by 2050, electricity use in homes is set to more than double, outstripping industry, as well as commercial and transport use combined. It's clear that, for too long, households and consumer activity have been put on the backburner in the fight against climate change. To achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050, our individual homes must become net zero. Yet, faced with a global pandemic, it's crucial not to weigh consumers down with restrictive measures that limit their freedom or enjoyment. Fortunately, the growing phenomenon of energy efficient home improvements provides a solution.
It's not about consuming less, it's about consuming better
Small wonder that 'energy efficiency' resonates better with consumers than 'sustainability' or 'climate change'. Two-thirds of consumers feel home energy efficiency is important. Meanwhile, only half feel carbon emissions are a threat and that reducing their own carbon footprint is important. Indeed, sustainability and climate change appear lower in consumer priorities across the US, France, Germany and Sweden.
The good intentions are there, however. Over half (55%) of Brits say that it's important for their home to reach net zero emissions within their lifetime-though this rises as high as 60% for those aged 35-54. Net zero homes are vital to slashing emissions and solving climate change challenges, and homeowners need to adopt sustainable features to address this. By generating as much clean, renewable electricity as they consume, homeowners will be able to tackle this problem. But consumers don't seem to know how -without sacrificing their lifestyles -which many don't see as an option or a possibility.
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Schneider Electric SE published this content on 03 March 2021 and is solely responsible for the information contained therein. Distributed by Public, unedited and unaltered, on 03 March 2021 13:27:01 UTC.