There are many choices we can make in our everyday lives to reduce our own emissions and lessen our impact on the planet.
We can also support others in making changes too. We all need to work together to reduce carbon emissions and make our homes resilient to climate change.
Here are a few suggestions of things that you could do:
There are lots of ways you can have a positive impact on the environment and save money too:
- make energy efficiency improvements to your home
- choose a green electricity tariff
- save water around the home - see OFWAT’s water saving tips for ideas
Here are some websites with energy advice:
Why not consider low carbon travel or cutting down the amount of journeys you are making by car each week?
- plan to walk, cycle or wheel to your destination - active travel is not only great for reducing carbon emissions but good for health and wellbeing too
- make journeys by public transport
- if you need a car, consider less impactful options such as car sharing to get to work or swapping your car for an electric model, and choosing a green electricity tariff
More information on low carbon travel is available from the Energy Saving Trust.
Did you know that food production is responsible for a quarter of greenhouse gas emissions?
Try the BBC’s food carbon footprint calculator here.
Some suggestions:
- consider reducing the amount of red meat you eat - meat free Mondays can be a good way to start making sustainable changes
- consider growing your own fruit and vegetables at home or at an allotment
- eat seasonally and consider your food’s air miles
- plan food shopping to avoid waste and use up leftovers
There are many choices we can make to lessen our emissions.
You may already be familiar with the common phrase 'Reduce, Reuse, Recycle' - 'Reduce' is all about using less and creating less waste in the first instance:
- think carefully before purchasing something – do you really need it?
- is the item something you could share, borrow or rent?
- shop second hand as much as possible
- repair items rather than throwing them away - there are number of local organisations that can help you reduce waste and repair old items
Recycle Now has more tips on how to reduce and reuse.