The spread of Carbon Rationing Action Groups (CRAGs) across Britain is a sign that the idea of reducing your carbon footprint is becoming more firmly entrenched in the psyche of the wider community. According to Andy Ross who is said to have reduced his own carbon emissions by more than 80% over the last 2 years, there are around 16 groups in the UK with the same number in the process of forming.
How Does a CRAG work?
Essentially, everyone who becomes a member of the group adheres to a carbon ration. The group has a nominated carbon accountant who records each member's car mileage, household bills, air travel, etc. This is then converted to CO2 and recorded.
As a point of reference, the average carbon footprint for Britons in 2005 was 5.5 tonnes. This is then used as a baseline for group members who then aim to reduce their footprint by a certain amount per year, say, 10%. Some groups then set up a fee system whereby they pay a fine for every kilo they break their ration by. This fine acts as a kind of carbon offset.
At the moment it's a small proportion of the population who have become CRAGs but it's an important demonstration of the public will and it also sends a faint message to the government that people are willing to take action towards the global warming issue.
For some CRAGgers, the changes to their lifestyle are going beyond simply fitting an energy efficient lightbulb or turning down the thermostat. Some are selling the car and car-sharing, others are thinking of selling their single occupancy flats and sharing with friends.
Lifestyle changes are the most difficult to catch on, but it's these small steps that could generate a greater wave of change. Watch out for the new CRAG in your neighborhood.
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