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senseandsensibility

(20,463 posts) Sat Jan 11, 2025, 06:11 PM 23 hrs ago

My idealistic thread in honor of Jimmy Carter

I am not, by nature, idealistic. But one of my heroes, Jimmy Carter, was. He was also extremely intelligent and wise. One of the ways he demonstrated this was by addressing climate change.

In his honor, I am going to try to address climate change in my daily life. I am going to reduce my use of plastic and if I can afford it, I am going to try to replace my lawn with drought resistant landscaping. I'll try to think of more strategies. In fact, that's where you guys come in.

What can we do as individuals to reduce our carbon footprint? Let's be idealistic in honor of President Carter. I'm sure he would approve.

Any and all ideas are welcome and no cynicism allowed.

3 replies

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My idealistic thread in honor of Jimmy Carter (Original Post) senseandsensibility 23 hrs ago OP

Install solar panels on our houses especially now MadameButterfly 22 hrs ago #1

Yes, solar panels will be #2 on my list senseandsensibility 22 hrs ago #2

The law currently extends them to 2032 (I think) MadameButterfly 22 hrs ago #3

MadameButterfly

(2,096 posts)

1. Install solar panels on our houses especially now

Reply to senseandsensibility (Original post)

Sat Jan 11, 2025, 07:03 PM

22 hrs ago

while Federal tax credits are still in effect and before inflation caused by tarriffs kick in.

Likewise, if you are needing a new furnace, air conditioner, or hot water heater, opt for a heat pump, or if appropriate (as is in my climate with existing duct-work) a dual fuel system. Holding out until this spring for the new machines using more environmentally friendly refrigerants will cost more up front but save money in the long run, and especially, will be MUCH better for the planet.

senseandsensibility

(20,463 posts)

2. Yes, solar panels will be #2 on my list

Reply to MadameButterfly (Reply #1)

Sat Jan 11, 2025, 07:07 PM

22 hrs ago

Good reminder about the federal tax credits. Wonder how long those will last under the new administration.

MadameButterfly

(2,096 posts)

3. The law currently extends them to 2032 (I think)

Reply to senseandsensibility (Reply #2)

Sat Jan 11, 2025, 07:20 PM

22 hrs ago

but Trump could change those. My solar people say they are unlikley to change before middle or late 2025. Some think Trump won't change tax policy until 2026. My solar people think a greater urgency is inflation from tarriffs because so many components of solar come from abroad even for companies that make panels here.

It takes some time to get permits, so if you want to do solar sooner is better.

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