Tackling climate change will require world leaders to take action on a global level.
But as individuals we also contribute to warming emissions. Here are some things you can do to reduce your personal impact.
- Insulate your home
From installing a heat pump to turning down the heating, there is a raft of changes around the home that can help the planet.
Switching from a gas or oil-powered heating system to an electric heat pump makes a considerable difference. On a day-to-day basis, switching off lights and appliances when not in use can help us to save money while reducing our impact on climate change.
Improving insulation in our walls, ceilings and windows can reduce the loss of heat from our homes and the amount of energy needed to heat them.
Draught-proofing is one of the cheapest and most effective forms of insulation, according to the Energy Saving Trust. This involves blocking up unwanted gaps that let cold air in and warm air out, such as around windows, doors or skirting boards.
- Cut out food waste and cut down on red meat
Livestock creates 14% of all greenhouse gases globally, with cattle being by far the largest contributor.
The simplest and most effective way to limit your impact is to reduce meat and dairy in your diet, particularly red meat such as lamb and beef.
You can save money and reduce waste by making smaller portions and saving leftovers for later at home.
- Drive less, fly less
Transport is responsible for almost a quarter of carbon dioxide global emissions.
Living car-free might be the most impactful thing we can do to reduce our transport emissions.
However, ditching the car is not possible for everyone, particularly if you live in an area without good public transport or are disabled.
Small steps still have an impact, like walking and cycling to the local shops or sharing car journeys with friends or neighbours.
Electric cars are becoming more widespread, but they are still prohibitively expensive for some people and charging infrastructure is limited in places.
Unfortunately for keen travellers, flying is one of the most carbon-intensive things we can do as individuals.
Domestic flights have the largest emissions per person per kilometre.
- Think before you buy
It takes 3,781 litres of water to make one pair of jeans, according to the UN's Environment Programme, taking into account cotton production, manufacture, transport and washing.
You can limit your impact by repairing minor faults in clothing rather than replacing them, donating rather than throwing away and choosing higher-quality items that you think will last longer.
Source: bbc.com
