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What Is A Carbon Footprint?
A carbon footprint is a measure of the impact our activities have on the environment, and in particular climate change. It relates to the amount of greenhouse gases produced in our day-to-day lives through burning fossil fuels for electricity, heating and transportation.
How can I reduce my carbon footprint?
Here's a list of simple things you can do immediately. These will start to reduce your contribution to global warming. The items in this list will cost you no money at all and will in fact save you money.
. Turn it off when not in use (lights, television, DVD player, Hi Fi, computer etc. etc.
.Turn down the central heating slightly (try just 1 to 2 degrees C)
. Turn down the water heating setting (just 2 degrees will make a significant saving)
. Check the central heating timer setting - remember there is no point heating the house after you have left for work
. Fill your dish washer and washing machine with a full load - this will save you water, electricity, and washing powder
. Fill the kettle with only as much water as you need
. Unplug your mobile phone as soon as it has finished charging
. Defrost your fridge/freezer regularly
. Do your weekly shopping in a single trip
. Hang out the washing to dry rather than tumble drying it
The following is a list of items that may take an initial investment but they should pay for themselves over the course of 1-4 years through savings on your energy bills.
. Fit energy saving light bulbs. Click here
. Install thermostatic valves on your radiators.
. Insulate your hot water tank, your loft and your walls 35% of heat generated in the house is lost through the walls. Installing cavity wall installation to a medium size house could reduce your heating bills by up to £100 per year. Click here
. By installing 180mm thick loft insulation you could stop about 25% of your heating escaping through the roof.
. Recycle your grey water. Click here
. Replace your old fridge / freezer (if it is over 15 years old), with a new one with energy efficiency rating of "A".
. Replace your old boiler with a new energy efficient condensing boiler.
All information from carbon footprint.com