What you can do to tackle climate change
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:
- cycle travel (opens new window) lets you plan your cycling route around the borough
- visit Surrey County Councils website to find out more about public transport (opens new window)
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)
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
- Find out more about volunteering opportunities at Guildford environmental forum (opens new window)
- Find out more about volunteering opportunities at Zero Carbon Guildford (opens new window)
- Find out more about environment and volunteering ideas in Surrey (opens new window)
- Find out more about volunteering opportunities with Surrey Wildlife Trust (opens new window)
- Find out more about volunteering opportunities in Surrey (opens new window)