Reduce Carbon Footprint

Carbon Dioxide (CO2) is a colourless and odourless gas which is released into the atmosphere as a result of burning fossil fuels. Fossil fuels are:

• Oil
• Gas
• Coal

Currently there is too much Carbon Dioxide in the atmosphere for plants, trees and other organic matter to absorb through photosynthesis. Because CO2 absorbs the heat from the sun it becomes trapped within the earth's atmosphere keeping the temperature of the earth warmer than it otherwise would be.

We are all responsible for emitting carbon dioxide into the atmosphere and it is critical we all individually take charge of trying to reduce the amount we contribute.

First Steps:

Find out how much carbon your household is emitting on a yearly basis. You can do this by visiting the Energy Saving Trust and using their carbon calculator.

Once you know your yearly output you can begin to start cutting back.

The average household emits over 6 tonnes of CO2 into the atmosphere every year. There are 26 million homes in the UK producing almost 30% of our entire CO2 emissions.

There are some simple steps you can take to reduce your carbon footprint. In doing so, you will also save money and become more energy efficient.

This year, saving money on energy bills will be one of the biggest challenges faced by the UK for many years. The price of oil, gas and electricity is continually rising and many people will for the first time not be able to afford to heat their homes adequately.

Have a look at our Fuel Poverty and Energy Awareness pages to find out how to beat the energy costs and stay warm this winter.