HARROGATE DISTRICT CLIMATE CHANGE COALITION
REDUCING EMISSIONS AT HOME
Below are 5 actions we recommend taking to reduce your energy carbon footprint and home
Introduction
The UK is in a Climate Emergency and the UK Government’s target is to achieve Net Zero Carbon(1) by 2050. Net zero means achieving a balance between the carbon emitted into the atmosphere, and the carbon removed from it. This balance will happen when the amount of carbon we add to the atmosphere is no more than the amount removed. Thanks to the efforts of Government, business, industry, and households, we are 50% of the way to Net Zero (see Carbon brief).
We all need to do more to achieve Net Zero. Reducing the energy we use for heating our homes and for transport are top priorities.
Energy use accounts for most of our carbon footprints. The average UK household has a carbon footprint of c. 9 TCO2e per year. Energy emissions (from heating, electricity and transport) account for most of this (67%).
The top 5 actions we recommend taking are here. You can also read our detailed guide which provides details on these and other options to reduce your energy bill and carbon emissions.
1. Energy Tariff
Switch to a green electricity tariff - saving up to 0.8 TCO2e p.a. at no extra cost
2. Reduce Heat Loss
Reduce heat losses at home by insulating, draught-proofing and improving heating control - saving up to 1.6 TCO2e and £290 p.a.
3. Light Bulbs
Replace your light bulbs with LEDs - saving up to 0.04 TCO2e and £40 p.a.
4. New Boiler
When it is time to replace your boiler, choose the lowest carbon option that you can afford - saving up to 0.8 TCO2e and £155 p.a.
5. Travel
Choose greener travel (e.g. walking, cycling, public transport and low carbon vehicles)
(1) Carbon is used as an abbreviation for all greenhouse gas emissions, the main one of which is carbon dioxide. Carbon units are expressed as tonnes carbon dioxide equivalent (TCO2e for short)
All figures in this and the detailed guide are taken from the Energy Savings Trust (July 2021), a reputable source, and relate to a 3-bedroom semi-detached house.