Tips to Help You Reduce Your Emissions

At the Office

• Make sure your employer uses renewable electricity. If not, ask that they switch provider/tariff.
• Consider whether that business trip is necessary. Could it be a videoconference instead?
• Only use the lights you need. Turn off lights in unused rooms. Or install occupancy sensors.
• Put heating systems on a timer so energy isn't wasted.
• Do you really need those hard copies, or can you save it on your computer instead? Print double-sided to save paper.

Flying

• We realise that sometimes people have no choice but to fly, but the best thing for the planet is if you don't fly at all. There are many short haul flights can be replaced by other forms of public transport such as trains or buses.
• When you have to fly, always consider if you can combine trips.
• It’s best to fly direct rather than stopping over, as taking off and landing both use more fuel than cruising at altitude.

Home Tips

• Switch to a renewable electricity supplier and a gas supplier that supports domestic biogas and/or offsets its customers' emissions. When your boiler needs replacing, install a heat pump instead.
• Draughts waste a lot of energy by losing heat. You can stop draughts particularly on exterior doors by putting a brush or seal on your doors to prevent air escaping round the edges. Letterboxes, keyholes, floorboards and skirting also lose heat and should be covered.
• Items left on standby can use up to 85% of the energy they would use if fully switched on.
• Make sure your hot water tank is insulated with a thick jacket. It will save money and energy.
• Always use the correct size pan, and when boiling water in a kettle only heat the amount you need.

Driving Tips

• Switch to a smaller vehicle that uses an electric drivetrain when your current one needs retiring.
• Anticipate road conditions and drive smoothly, avoiding sharp acceleration and heavy braking. This saves fuel and reduces accident rates.
• Drive away immediately when starting from cold - idling to heat the engine wastes fuel and causes rapid engine wear.
• The most efficient speed depends upon the car in question but is typically around 55 - 65mph / 90 - 105 kmh. Faster speed will greatly increase your fuel consumption.