Small changes make big changes

Everything we do has an impact on our climate from transport to water to energy- not just waste. It is therefore important to consider these things when we are trying to make changes in our lives.

Here are some easy ways you can help reduce the effects of climate change. Remember that the small changes we each make at home can lead to big changes globally!

Little changes you can make:

Waste

Extracting and processing raw materials needed to manufacture the goods we use takes a lot of energy and consumes a lot of water. It is therefore important to keep our resources as useful as possible for as long as possible by reducing, reusing, recycling and composting at home.

Food

Did you that if food waste were a country, it would be the third largest emitter of greenhouse gases in the world? That is because an estimated one third of all food produced will go to waste. There are many ways you can help reduce this, including:

  • Writing a list before going shopping so that you only buy what you need.
  • Check use-by dates so that you eat food in time. Remember you can freeze most foods right up to the use-by date.
  • Store food correctly - check the packaging for more details.
  • Only cook the amount of food you are going to eat.
  • Eat your leftover foods before they spoil.

Energy

Some of our energy comes from fossil fuel sources, which are a huge contributor to climate change. By saving energy at home, you not only help the planet but you can also save money on your bills. Here are some ways you can help reduce the energy in your home:

  • Turn off electrical items and lights when not in use. Make sure they are not on standby by turning them off at the plug -this saves an average of £30 per year.
  • Switch to more energy efficient lightbulbs.
  • Turn off heating and radiators when not needed.
  • Wash your clothes at 30 degrees, and only use the washing machine when it has a full load.
  • Switch to a smart meter if possible.

Transport

When making a journey, consider alternatives to using a car such as walking, cycling or using public transport. If you are using public transport don’t forget to wear your face covering.

Water

Water is a precious resource that takes a lot of energy to process so that it is useable. By saving water, you not only help the planet but can also reduce the cost of your water bill.