
CommitClimate Simulator Workshop at Tallinn University of Technology
05 February 2025
On February 5, 2025, the CommitClimate simulator workshop took place at Tallinn University of Technology, bringing together 13 participants eager to explore their carbon footprint and ways to reduce it.
Interactive Experience with the CommitClimate Simulator
The workshop kicked off with an introduction to the CommitClimate project and the Citizen Carbon Footprint Calculator. Participants had the opportunity to test the simulator firsthand, allowing them to measure their carbon footprint and explore various reduction strategies. The tool provided different measures, enabling participants to select feasible actions for their lifestyle.
Engaging Discussions and Key Takeaways
Following the individual simulator experience, participants engaged in group discussions. Each section of the simulator was analyzed separately, with teams sharing their insights afterward. The most debated topic was transportation, where participants suggested additional features for the simulator, such as options to switch to smaller engine cars, hybrid vehicles, and biofuels. Many were surprised by the significant impact of switching to electric vehicles, given Estonia’s electricity mix still relies heavily on oil shale. Other key transport-related insights included:
- Expanding tram networks
- Improving park-and-ride facilities
- Enhancing bicycle infrastructure and pedestrian pathways
- Making public transportation more convenient
Beyond Transportation: Waste, Energy, and Business Responsibility
Participants also addressed waste management, suggesting that sorting waste should be more user-friendly and universally standardized. They recommended that stores separate biodegradable and packaging waste, and that usable food be donated instead of discarded. In the business sector, attendees emphasized the need for companies to take more responsibility. Suggestions included organizing transport to events, using more recycled materials, promoting tool rental services, and establishing more repair workshops to extend product lifespans. The energy sector was seen as the most challenging to influence at an individual level due to the high costs of implementing changes. However, participants recognized its immense potential impact on overall emissions.
Positive Feedback and Future Outlook
The simulator was well received, with participants finding it user-friendly and informative. Feedback indicated that the workshop helped clarify local climate policies, with most attendees expressing interest in contributing more actively to shaping them. Moreover, participants recognized how their personal choices impact local greenhouse gas emissions and expressed willingness to join similar events in the future. On the technical side, the simulator functioned smoothly for most users, with only minor issues such as slow loading and occasional glitches reported.
Conclusion The CommitClimate simulator workshop successfully provided an engaging and educational experience, empowering participants to understand their carbon footprint and explore effective ways to reduce it. Events like these play a crucial role in fostering climate awareness and encouraging community-driven environmental action.
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