Clear signs of the extreme effects of climate change are visible all over the globe, from rising global temperatures to melting glaciers. Though we have not experienced such extremes as the heat waves in Europe and China, the hurricanes and typhoons that cause widespread damage to lives and properties, and rising sea water levels that threaten smaller island-countries, we can all agree it’s getting hotter in Singapore every year.

What contributes to climate changes?

The answer: greenhouse gases, mainly carbon dioxide or CO2. As the demand for power in our everyday lives increases, the amount of CO2 released into the atmosphere has also increased.

Every time you switch on your air-conditioners or TV, you are actually contributing greenhouse gases to the air. A large part of the total electricity supply to your home comes from the burning of fossil fuels such as oil and natural gas. The burning of these fuels releases CO2 into the air, thus adding to the greenhouse effect. Same goes for cars, which emits CO2 due to the combustion of petrol or diesel.

What can you do?

For a start, you can use less electricity by switching off home appliances and lights when not in use. Look out for the energy-efficiency labels when shopping for air-conditioners and fridges. Keep your car well-maintained and if you can, take public transport.

By making simple changes to our daily lifestyle, we can help to reduce CO2 emissions and at the same time, reduce our electricity and fuel bills as well. So, think twice before you drive that car, turn on the air-conditioner or leave the lights on!

Read about Singapore’s efforts to address climate change and ensure good air quality under the Singapore Green Plan 2012, the blueprint for environmental sustainability here

See how you can be an everyday superhero here by saving energy!

To read more about climate change: Climate change & why we should be very concerned (Issue 2 of 2006, Elements)

If you have any burning questions about climate change, or have suggestions on other topics you would like more information on, you can email us This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .