What can I do about climate change?

1) Use Public Transport

Choosing to use public transport can have a big impact on carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e) emissions. An average petrol car in the UK produces 170.5g CO2e per km, whereas typical a train journey emits around 35g CO2e per passenger km.

All forms of mass transport count including trains, buses, coaches and car sharing.

2) Active Travel

Active travel – incorporating an active element into the way you travel is not only good for the climate, but is also a great way to exercise. Try replacing a short car journey by walking, wheeling or cycling to explore the possibilities of active travel from your doorstep.

If you are interested in active travel or want to find out more about the National Cycle Network, check out the Sustrans website.

3) Alternative Food Choices

Transportation of produce, land use change, livestock farming and food waste contribute towards the one third of all greenhouse gas emissions that are associated with food production. Different foods have different environmental impacts; the production of animal-based foods generally has a greater negative impact than the production of plant-based foods. For example beef is responsible for 25 kg CO₂e per 100g of protein provided compared to 1.6 kg CO₂e per 100g of protein in tofu and 0.36 kg CO₂e per 100g of protein in beans.

Try reducing the amount of meat you consume, incorporating a plant-based meal into your diet or reduce your food waste, either by getting creative with your leftovers or recycling or composting what you can.

4) Adjust boiler settings

Studies have shown that turning down boiler flow temperatures from manufacturing set points can reduce the gas usage required for space heating by between 9% and 12%

For frequently asked questions relating to adjusting boiler settings, including whether you have the right type of boiler for this process, see the EDF website.

The level of insulation in your home, the size of your house and the rate at which you want your house to warm up can all influence the ideal flow temperature for your boiler.

5) Install Energy Efficiency Measures

Install energy efficiency measures and/or low carbon heating systems in your home – heat is easily lost from homes, with up to 25% being lost through the roof. By adding or increasing insulation in your property, the thermal performance of the building improves, making it warmer, more comfortable and less prone to damp and mould. Low carbon heating systems replace fossil-fuel based systems which can reduce carbon emissions by up to 23 tonnes of CO2 over 10 years.

Government grants are available for eligible residents to receive energy efficiency measures and/or low carbon heating systems. The range of schemes which are currently active include:

• Boiler Upgrade Scheme
• Home Upgrade Grant Phase 2
• Social Housing Decarbonisation Fund
• Energy Company Obligation (ECO)
  
  • Eligibility requirements vary by scheme.

HUG2 Eligibility

• Proof of residence in an eligible area with an EPC rating of D or below and off-gas
  OR
• Combined household income of <£31,000 and EPC rating D or below and off-gas
  

You can find out more on our HUG2 webpage.

6) Climate Engagement

To improve your understanding and awareness of climate change, take part in a climate FRESK. This group activity brings together the leading climate science from the IPCC into an easily accessible, interactive format. Run by a registered facilitator, this activity can be completed by the public or businesses.

Last Updated on Wednesday, May 8, 2024