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What you can do to tackle climate change

What you need to know

Climate change is the term used to describe changes to the planet's long-term weather patterns and average temperatures. 

What are carbon emissions?

Burning fossil fuels like gas, coal and oil produces energy. But they also release greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous monoxide into the air. Once they're in the atmosphere, they form a blanket around the planet. This traps the heat from the sun and causes the earth to get hotter.

Find out more about the cause and impact of climate change (opens new window)

Carbon emissions are classed under three Scopes, depending on where the emissions come from:

  • Scope 1 - this one means emissions that a company or organisation makes directly, like fuel burnt from running vehicles or gas used in heating or cooking
  • Scope 2 - this one means emissions that are caused indirectly from energy bought and used, like electricity used to in lighting within a building
  • Scope 3 - these are not produced by an organisation or company themselves, but indirectly as a consequence, like emissions produced when making, transporting and disposing of a light bulb in a building

 

What is net zero?

Net zero means no longer adding to the total amount of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere. We're committed to achieving net zero within scope 1 and 2, across all council services by 2030. 

Your journey to net zero

There are simple steps you can take to help meet the UK target of net zero by 2050.

Calculate your carbon footprint

Answer a few questions about your lifestyle and find out how to reduce your carbon footprint. 

Reduce waste and recycle 

Find out more about managing your waste and recycling.

Using greener transport

There are government grants available for greener transport. You can find out more about electric vehicle grants.

If you have an electric vehicle you can find out where electric vehicle charging points are.

You can also choose alternative transport such as public transport or cycling:

If you do want to drive you can find out more about Ultra Low Emissions Vehicles (ULEV). (opens new window)

Reducing energy and saving money

Making simple changes at home can help use less energy, reduce your carbon footprint, and save money:

  • wear an extra layer and lower your central heating by a degree or two
  • adjust your boilers temperature to save on gas
  • use hot water wisely: get a water-efficient showerhead, only fill your kettle with what you need, wash your clothes at 30o when the washing machine is full
  • change the way you cook: use lids on pans, choose a microwave oven or slow cooker rather than an oven
  • turn off lights and appliances when not in use, switch to more efficient appliances, use LED light bulbs
  • make your home more energy efficient with insulation and draft proofing
  • look to change to a green energy tariff and using a Smart Meter to track usage and potentially save on bills

Get free energy saving advice from Action Surrey (opens new window)

Quick tips to save energy at home - Energy Saving Trust (opens new window)

Quick tips and home improvements to help you heat your home for less - Energy Saving Trust (opens new window)

Eating less meat and dairy 

Cutting back on meat and dairy is one of the biggest ways of reducing your carbon footprint. It's healthier and can save you money.

Find out more about how eating less meat can reduce your carbon emissions (opens new window)

Nature and biodiversity

Green spaces like parks and gardens are vital. They absorb carbon dioxide, reduce air pollution, regulate temperature, and provide homes for our wildlife. They also boost mental health by helping to lower stress.

How To Increase Biodiversity In Your Garden - Woodland Trust (opens new window)

Get involved in community groups and projects