Fossil fuels, such as coal and natural gas, release carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases when they’re burned, causing significant damage to the environment. While political leaders have already signed a pact to commit to cutting global carbon emissions, changing the way we consume energy individually can also make a big difference.
A greener UK
By 2050, the UK is aiming to reduce emissions by 80%. According to this study, we’d have to reduce our consumption of natural gas continuously until 2050 to meet this target. This could be difficult considering that 90% off houses still have central heating, which uses gas as a primary source of fuel.
The good news is that there are lots of simple things we can do to reduce our carbon footprint – starting at home. Putting into practice a few of these changes can help to slash non-renewable energy usage, and cut down emissions. And making these small changes can even drive down our energy bills. This could be difficult considering that 90% off houses still have central heating, which uses gas as a primary source of fuel.
Central heating
- Keep doors closed and switch off heaters
- Open curtains to let in sunlight during winter
- Use a programmable thermostat to control your central heating
- Add clothing layers during cold weather
- Use draught excluders to prevent heat loss
Electrics
- Use LED fluorescent light bulbs instead of incandescent or halogen bulbs
- Turn off electronics rather than leaving on standby
- Put your phone on airplane mode
- Keep the fridge in a cool area with good air flow to prevent it from overheating
- Fill up the fridge to stop cool air escaping when you open it
- Remove lint from dryers to help clothes dry quicker
Water
- Lower the temperature on the water tank by one or two degrees
- Insulate hot water pipes and the water tank
- Fit an economic showerhead – they use less water than normal showers, power showers, and baths
- Don’t put on a wash unless it’s a full load and turn the water temperature down
- Shower rather than having a bath