How tough conditions can foster change
The crisis can indeed have positive aspects. It serves as a wake-up call, catalysing the birth of fresh ideas and prompting a revaluation of our needs. Among other developments, energy consumption is reduced, the use of energy-intensive appliances is rationalized, and we turn to green energy, setting the stage for a global economic rejuvenation.
Over time, we come to appreciate the regenerated parks and green city squares created to alleviate summer heat, while an increasing number of people embrace public transportation for both work and leisure. Others opt for eco-friendly modes of transport like bicycles or scooters, all contributing to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. In these ways, humanity aims to return to simpler, happier times while simultaneously curbing atmospheric pollution.
However, numerous other strategies can also help us achieve our global climate goals, which are now more critical than ever for our continued existence on this planet. We must not forget last year's devastating wildfires, further depleting the planet's crucial oxygen suppliers.
New Habits for a New World
Our new "allies" are earth, wind, waves, and sunlight, which can help us break free from our dependence on fossil fuels. Both Europe and Greece rely on others for energy to heat and power our homes and workplaces. We hope that the rising prices of daily necessities, that are currently mirroring energy price increases, will soon stabilize, making household finances sustainable once more.
Although the energy crisis long predates recent developments, many are only now taking an active interest in responding to it effectively. Interestingly, now that we are past the first stages of the unfolding peril, we can manage our early worries more calmly and can start seeking answers rather than fretting about the problem. Perhaps we should even focus on the positive outcomes of this enormous and unexpected change affecting our lives.
So, how can the energy crisis positively affect our daily habits? Let's take a quick look.
New technologies
The energy crisis is driving the need for the development and adoption of new, eco-friendly technologies. This can lead to the discovery and implementation of innovative solutions for the production and use of renewable energy sources, including solar and wind. Furthermore, even if we forget to turn off one of our electrical appliances while away from home, we can now use our internet connection, whether on our smartphone or computer, to check what is happening and manage our smart appliances from wherever we are. In this battle against climate change and the energy crisis, technology is a critical ally.
Energy Savings
The need to save energy is making us more aware and considerate of our energy consumption. We can review our habits and adopt energy-efficient practices, such as turning off inactive appliances (as mentioned earlier), using natural light, and updating and upgrading our home insulation through subsidized programs. The National Bank of Greece consistently supports initiatives that aim to protect and upgrade our natural environment and is now taking part in the Exikonomo program, helping you upgrade your home in energy-saving and energy-efficient ways.
Green/circular economy grows
The need to reduce our dependence on traditional energy sources generates opportunities for the green economy to flourish. This can lead to the creation of new jobs in renewable energy, energy efficiency, and sustainable "green" construction. The circular economy, an economic system based on sustainability and efficient resource use, promotes a growth model that aims to limit waste, increase recycling and reuse, and contribute to the regeneration of resources. Effectively, the circular economy marks the end of our familiar "receive-consume-reject" production line.
The planet is changing
Our world is changing rapidly, at the speed of kilobits per second, and "Mother Earth" is sounding the alarm regarding the problems humanity will soon be called upon to manage.
The energy crisis is not just a great challenge; it is also an opportunity for change and progress. With sense and sensibility, we can confront the crisis with inspiration, apply new methods, and promote a more sustainable and eco-friendly approach to daily life. With the right choices and by working together, we can create a better future for ourselves and future generations.
Sources:
https://www.oecd.org/ukraine-hub/policy-responses/confronting-the-energy-crisis-changing-behaviours-to-reduce-energy-consumption-5664e8a9/
https://www.iea.org/articles/the-potential-of-behavioural-interventions-for-optimising-energy-use-at-home