A carbon footprint is a measure of the impact our activities have on the environment, and in particular climate change; the amount of greenhouse gases we produce.
Being carbon neutral is about making homes as energy efficient as possible and saving you money whilst improving the environment.
Below are some of the energy saving tips you can implement to contribute to reducing CO2 emissions and energy consumption.
- At night close the curtains to stop heat being lost through the windows
- Have a shower instead of a bath and you'll save time, water and money
- Turn your television off when leaving a room instead of leaving it on standby
- Turn off lights when you leave a room for long periods
- Defrost fridges and freezers regularly to keep them running efficiently
- Where possible use a full load before using your washing machine
- Use a toaster rather than a grill for making toast
- Turn down your heating, just 1 or 2 degrees will make a significant saving
- Check the central heating timer - remember there is no point heating the house when you have left for work
- Fill the kettle only with as much water as you need
- Unplug your mobile as soon as it is finished charging
- Fit energy saving lightbulbs
- Car share to work or for the school run
- Replace your old fridge freezer (if it is over 15 years old) for a new one with a efficiency rating of A
- Don't buy bottled water if your tap water is safe to drink
- Buy locally grown fruit and vegetables, or even try growing your own
- Don't buy over packaged goods
Being carbon neutral will save you money; for example, you can slash an average annual fuel bill by up to £250 a year by insulating your home and using energy efficient lightbulbs and household appliances
