Do one thingWhat is my contribution?
Each of us has what is called a carbon footprint – in simple English this is the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) that is emitted as a result of our direct actions – a measure of our own personal contribution to global warming. The average household footprint in the UK is around 10 tonnes of CO2 per year (excluding consumption which may double this basic figure). About 45% of this household footprint comes from heating energy, 15% from domestic electrical use (non-heating) and around 40% fMonday June 2, 2008
What should I do?
We all need to take responsibility for our personal CO2 emissions and make continued efforts to reduce them wherever possible. There are a number of websites where you can measure your carbon footprint. The Government has recently launched one called Act on CO2:Carbon Calculator.
What practical steps can I take?
Follow our simple tips to reduce the impact your life has on our climate. Many of these tips will save you money as well as the planet.
- Replace the light bulbs you use most with low-energy bulbs.
- Insulate your hot water tank, walls, loft and floors. You loft insulation should be at least 270mm (11 inches).
- Use the washing machine only when you have a full load and wash at low temperature.
- Turn down the heating thermostat by 1°C. If you're cold put on another sweater!
- Take a shower instead of a bath and have your water heating on for as short a time as possible.
- Get on your bike, walk or use public transport instead of travelling by car.
- If you are buying a new washing machine, refrigerator, dishwasher or oven, buy the most energy-efficient model. They will pay for themselves through lower energy bills.
- Switch off lights when you don’t need them; and don’t leave the TV, computer or stereo on standby - switch them off!
- Buy your electricity from a credible green energy supplier such as Good Energy or Ecotricity.
- Consume less, and recycle and re-use paper, glass, aluminium, tin, plastic, clothing and plastic bags. Join Freecycle at www.freecycle.org.
- Buy locally grown food from a local farmer’s market, farm shop or box scheme.