Questions and Answers
Is Global Warming Real?
Yes, very. You may not notice its effects on a day-to-day level, but the warming climate has been proven to exacerbate heatwaves and results in a faster warming of the Polar regions than the Earth's middle-latitudes and tropics. My career as an energy meteorologist involves constantly looking at predictions of daily and weekly temperature anomalies all around the world - much of the world is now experiencing above-average temperatures most of the time. Remember that we are having a profound effect on the Earth far beyond the climate - changing ecosystems and biodiversity, and even changing the land itself through our expanding cities infrastructure.
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What can I, the individual do?
This question has been asked countless times of the years, and there are many different answers (often more comprehensive than what I can suggest). However, the foundations of this website preach:
1) Living within your means and not being sucked into the Black Hole of consumerism.
2) Making climate conscious financial decisions.
3) Going electric (EVs, ground-source heat pumps, solar panels etc).
​You should also:
4) Reduce, reuse and recycle as much as possible.
5) Reduce food waste.
6) Eat more plants and less meat.
7) Cycle and walk more (use your lovely electric car less for short journeys).
8) Educate others.
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I'm sceptical about electric vehicles. How can you reassure me?
I own a Tesla Model 3 Long Range (2020). The range is good, I get between 150-250 miles from a charge depending on the weather conditions and how frequently I drive/ how long each journey is. I charge from home so rarely worry about the range - for long trips, most western countries already have impressive charging infrastructure (there are around 15,000 rapid charge points in the UK, for example), and the number of charge points is growing exponentially. EV's are easier to drive, with no gears and many cars feature regenerative braking so you rarely have to use the brake pedal. EV's are generally also faster and quieter than internal combustion engine vehicles. Over the long term, an electric vehicle is MUCH better for the environment than petrol or diesel.
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I can't afford an electric car.
Electric cars are expensive - at least in the UK where they are generally classed as luxury vehicles. If you want to make the switch but find it's too expensive, my recommendation would be to buy a small used petrol car - preferably 5-10 years old, with low mileage and in good condition. Look after it, and over time you'll save a significant chunk of money. At this point I'd still recommend driving your car until it falls apart or becomes too expensive to maintain - instead of spending your money on an EV, invest it and buy your financial freedom instead. Once you've done all of this, then you can get your shiny new EV (although with the intention of keeping it for a long time).
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How is my money linked to the climate?
Your money is fundamentally linked to the climate. Your investments and pension(s) are linked - particularly regarding where this money is invested. Many people have a lot wealth tied up in pensions - and this money is usually invested in a fund which might invest more heavily in companies that damage the environment than you realise. Always understand where your money is invested - and take action if you are not happy.
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How does fitness and personal development fit into this?
Not directly. But I believe that enhancing your mental and physical health provides a solid foundation on which to build your life, and which gives you the self-belief to take a more holistic view of the world - one which benefits everyone. On a simpler note, it promotes a healthier, more productive and ultimately happier lifestyle.
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What should I do with the money I save?
By consistently living below your means, you will have extra capital to invest. But learning to invest can be a daunting process - and many people are scared away before they start. I suggest investing into the global stock market with a low cost fund manager like Vanguard. Consistently buy funds like the Vanguard All-World UCITS ETF using dollar-cost averaging, and hold forever (or for as long as you can until you actually need the money. We know that on average the stock market will go up (by about 8% per year), but we do not necessarily know which stock market will perform best in the future (although the US stock market has outperformed other stock markets over recent decades). Buying a fund where your money is diversified globally is therefore the recommended strategy. Finally, don't try and time the market -this won't work and you'll probably end up losing money anyway. Just buy consistently and hold.
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Will following your principles make me happy?
Ah, the ultimate question - and one without a simple answer. The principles of this website will guide you to a life of climate-conscious minimalism, one which gives you the tools and financial freedom to live the life you want - for the true meaning of happiness is to have the freedom to spend your time as you want. You'll do all this while being kinder and less impactful on the environment - knowledge of that is, for me, one of the pillars of a happy life.
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Any recommended reading?
Yes! Below you'll find a list of the most influential books on my life so far:
- The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People.
- How to Invest Better Than the Average Primate (especially relevant to UK investors).​
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More Q+A material will be added in the future!