Climate action for greatest impact

This guide brings together the most impactful lifestyle changes you can make—whether big or small—to help tackle climate change, reduce costs and improve your health and wellbeing. Explore the sections below for practical actions and resources to help you get started.

Consider the way you travel

Transport is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, with road vehicles accounting for the majority¹. Here’s how you can make a difference:

• For short journeys: Walk or cycle whenever possible.
• For longer journeys: Use public transport or car share.
• If you need a car: Consider switching to a low-emissions or electric vehicle. While the upfront cost may be higher, running costs are often lower over time. Learn more about electric vehicles.
• Fly less: Reducing the number of long-haul flights you take each year can significantly cut your carbon footprint.

Additional benefits: Improved health, reduced costs, better air quality and less noise pollution.

Find out more:

• Sustrans – Everyday journeys for everyone

Consider home improvements

Homes are the UK’s second highest emitting sector for greenhouse gases². Improving your home can help reduce emissions and adapt to a changing climate:

• Install LED bulbs and efficient appliances.
• Insulate your home to keep it warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
• Use smart heating controls and avoid overheating.
• Grow trees or leafy plants near windows for natural shading.
• Check your flood risk and make plans if needed.
• Consider switching to heat pumps or hydrogen boilers - grants may be available.

Additional benefits: Lower energy bills, increased comfort and resilience to extreme weather.

Find out more:

• UK Government energy efficiency advice
• Flood risk and warnings
• More home improvement tips

Eat sustainably

Food choices and waste³ are significant sources of emissions. Here’s how to make your diet more climate-friendly:

• Eat a healthy, balanced diet with more plant-based and locally grown foods.
• Reduce meat and dairy consumption.
• Only buy what you need to cut down on food waste.

Additional benefits: Improved health and reduced grocery bills.

Find out more:

• Eatwell Guide
• Love Food Hate Waste
• Climate Change Committee

Reduce, reuse, recycle

Recycling and mindful consumption can save millions of tonnes of carbon emissions each year:

• Buy only what you need and choose durable, sustainable products.
• Repair and recycle wherever possible.
• Recycle at home - making products from recycled materials uses less energy.

Additional benefits: Reduced costs and less waste to landfill.

Find out more:

• Recycle Now

Small actions & spreading the word

Even small, everyday actions add up. Share your journey and encourage others:

• Talk to friends, family, and colleagues about climate action.
• Use #GetClimateReady on social media to share your story.
• Join local community initiatives.
• Check on vulnerable people during extreme weather such as heatwaves.

 

Not everyone can make every change but reflecting on what’s achievable in your life - and acting where you can - will help create a safer, healthier future for all. Every action counts, and together, our efforts can make a real difference.

 

¹ UK Government

² Seventh Carbon Budget

³Wrap