Weatherproof your home and fight climate change (Letter to the Editor)

Did you know that 2022 was the fifth-hottest year ever recorded? Europe saw the hottest summer ever.  And, in spite of the horrifying weather events we see around us, coal use and global fossil fuel climate pollution rose in 2022. 

As homeowners, many of us unknowingly contribute to the problem simply by cooling and heating  our homes. (About 15% of New Jersey's greenhouse gas emissions come from residential buildings.)

But there is some good news on the horizon – in 2022 the federal Inflation-Reduction Act was passed. This legislation will help reduce climate pollution significantly by 2030. Among many other provisions, homeowners will get financial help to encourage home improvements that lower energy costs. And, of course, lower energy use results in lower emissions. 

That’s where the Montclair Public Library and Montclair Climate Action enter the picture. On Tuesday, Jan. 31, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m., a public forum called “Living Green: Home Weatherproofing 101” will be held at the main branch of the library.

An architect, an energy audit-provider, two contractors and a few local homeowners from Montclair Climate Action will talk about energy audits and other first steps to take to start weatherproofing your home. Learn about financial incentives, and hear directly from homeowners about their experiences with weatherproofing. A question-and-answer period will follow. 

You can do your part in the battle against climate change, make your house more energy efficient and save money all at the same time!

Jean Lyons
Montclair