Small Things You Can Do to Make a Big Change
25 examples of small things you can do to improve your carbon footprint and help combat climate change
Ways to save water:
- Start by claiming your free water-saving kit from Essex and Suffolk Water
- Swap one bath for a shower each week- a shower typically uses around half the water of a full bath
- Use a washing-up bowl when doing the dishes- filling a bowl uses far less water than leaving the tap running
- Turn off taps while brushing your teeth
- Fixing Leaks- repair leaky taps, showerheads, and toilets as soon as possible to prevent water from being wasted
To learn more ways of reducing your water usage and why it's so important, visit our dedicated page.
Ways to save energy:
- Switch appliances off at the wall when not in use- leaving them on standby can use as much energy as when they are in use
- Turning lights off when you’re not in that room
- Wash clothes at 30 degrees or lower- reducing the temperature setting on your washing machine from 40 to 30 degrees could cost you 40% less
- Dry your clothes by hanging them outside or inside on a clothes horse instead of using a tumble dryer
- When making hot drinks, only boil the kettle with as much water as you need instead of filling the kettle to the top
To learn more tips on ways to save energy, visit our dedicated page.
Ways to manage and reduce waste:
- Recycle right- check packaging for recycling information and make sure things are going in the right bins
- Choose products made from recyclable materials to minimise what goes in your black sacks.
- Buy second hand- by choosing pre-loved items, you can reduce landfill waste and manufacturing emissions
- Repurpose and upcycle- give old items a new life, instead of throwing them away, to prevent ‘throwaway culture’
- Repair before replacing by taking the time to fix things, rather than buying new. It might be easier than you think
To learn more tips on managing your waste and why it’s so important, visit our dedicated page.
Ways to reduce your overall emissions:
- Swap car journeys where you can, and instead try walking, cycling, or using public transport.
- Rethink air travel when planning trips away. Consider lower-emission alternatives like the Eurostar or national rail networks.
- Slow down when driving- driving at high speeds burns more fuel and emits more CO₂
- Avoid idling when your car isn’t moving for more than 30 seconds. When you stop at a traffic light, are stuck in traffic, or are waiting to pick someone up, turn your engine off to save fuel, cut emissions, and keep the air cleaner
- Invest in electric if you can- see if your new vehicle or appliance has an electric or energy-saving alternative
Ways to plan for a greener future:
- Redoing your driveway? Reconsider paving and invest in robust flowerbeds- plants absorb rainwater and help prevent flooding and damp
- Sharing groceries and household essentials- when living with others (family members, a partner, housemates, etc.) prevent further waste and share items instead of buying duplicates
- Get creative- grow your own herbs and veggies, upcycle furniture, and support local makers and markets.
- Treat your home and garden to more plants, as they absorb CO₂, purifying the air and helping cool our planet
- Speak up! Lobby your MP’s and Councillors to act by bringing to their attention projects and initiatives that support Climate Action. As well, help inspire others within your community by sharing actions you’re taking. Small changes can spark big collective action