Climate march Nottingham by Leanne Manchester
Things you can do about climate change
Make a difference
We are in the middle of a climate and nature emergency, and the two are inextricably linked. Climate change is driving nature’s decline and the loss of wild spaces is leaving us ill-equipped to reduce carbon emissions and adapt to change.
But, there are simple and easy things that we can all do to reduce our carbon footprint, adapt to climate change and make a big difference to the natural world. We've got loads of ideas for kids too!
Photo by Leilani Angel on Unsplash
Change what you eat
Agriculture accounted for 10% of UK greenhouse gas emissions in 2018. Buying local, eating plant-based and reducing your food miles will shrink this footprint.
Photo by Phil Hearing on Unsplash
Change how you travel
Transport currently accounts for 27% of UK emissions. Making small changes to how you get from A to B will make a big difference!
Photo by Robert Wiedemann on Unsplash
Change your energy use
Energy used in buildings accounts for around 17% of total emissions. Reducing your household energy use by switching to a renewable energy supplier or purchasing a heat pump will help cut down.
Unsplash
Recycle and reuse
Recycle, upcycle - and make do and mend! Production of household waste needs to decrease by 33% by 2037 to reach emissions targets. So get out that needle and thread!
Reduce your flood risk
Across the UK 1.9 million people currently live in areas of significant flooding. This number could double as early as the 2050s. Make a difference and avoid paving over gardens. Instead, replace hard surfaces with grass and plants.
Photo by Victoria Strukovskaya on Unsplash
Reduce your heat risk
Currently, around 20% of homes are at significant risk of overheating. Shading your windows and planting more greenery around your house will help lower the temperatures.
Reduce your water use
Currently, the average person uses around 140 litres of water a day, depleting the water available for wildlife. Huge water deficits are on track to occur in the next 50 years - so we need to start cutting down. Water metres, water-efficient appliances and water butts are just a few of the things that can make a big difference!
Contact your MP
By writing to your MP or meeting them in person, you can help them to understand more about a nature or climate issue that you care passionately about.