We all understand that the current rush towards a hotter more hostile planet is neither sustainable or desirable. The best way to reduce global greenhouse gas emissions and maintain a planet in its current state of liveability is for governments to use the whole range of options available to them at a scale that will have maximum impact. Closing down fossil fuelled power stations as quickly as possible and transitioning to renewables is a prime example.

BUT… You and I can do our bit to help out too.

This newsletter focusses on gas as an important and prolific domestic greenhouse gas emitter. It is being installed into new houses all around the country and it shouldn’t be. As consumers we need to be doing all within our power to either avoid or plan to reduce our use of gas. In other words and in the words of Saul Griffith on ABC TV’s Australian Story: Electrify Everything!

It’s true that electricity is still produced by dirty coal fired power stations in Victoria. But more than 25% of our power is now from renewables and this is rapidly increasing whilst the cost to the consumer is dropping. There should be a ban on new gas connections and support for people to switch from gas to electric appliances.

By contrast, natural gas is largely made up of methane which is a potent greenhouse gas. Methane leaks at every stage of gas production right through to inside our homes. As well as warming the planet, domestic gas, when burnt, releases CO2 and dangerous particles that can lead to severe health risks, especially in children. Gas use in homes is estimated to cause 12% of childhood asthma in Australia. The use of gas in homes an avoidable health risk:Electrify Everything!

Here’s what you can do…If your existing gas appliances are getting old, plan for replacement with efficient electric heat pumps, ovens and induction cooktops. While gas is inefficient and dangerous, electric heat pumps for hot water, heating and cooling homes are astonishingly efficient and clean. A heat pump will be 3-5 times more efficient than any other method of heating or cooling.

So… whilst we can continue to lobby governments at all levels to do the heavy lifting, we, as consumers, need to get off the gas and get into electicity wherever possible.

A heat-pump hot water service. This brand is made in the LaTrobe Valley.

More reading on why we should get off gas as quickly as possible…

Getting your home off gas: A quick guide from the Climate Council

Revealed: 1,000 super-emitting methane leaks risk triggering climate tipping points showing the frightening amount of methane leaking along the ‘natural gas’ supply chain. Urgent action on this travesty would kick some quick goals in reducing global heating. No new gas wells needs to be universal international policy.

Doctors for the Environment fact sheet on gas health impacts A comprehensive and compelling explanation of the harm that gas causes in our homes.