Photo by Annie Spratt on Unsplash
After COP 26 many of us will have been left feeling that carbon emissions are a huge problem which have to be solved by Governments, not individuals. It is of course true that Governments must play their parts, but there are things for each of us to do as well. Alone, none of us can solve the problem, but we can at least stop contributing to it. Doing something is better than doing nothing.
Here are some ideas for New Year’s Resolutions for a greener 2022 (as a bonus, many of them will save money as well):
- Food: Try a meat-free Monday, or even Veganuary. Think about your diet. Cut down especially on beef, lamb, dairy products and out-of-season produce. Eat seasonal foods produced locally.
- Travel: Switch one regular journey from driving to public transport, walking or cycling. Start walking to church and make that part of your prayer time, or agree a car share with someone who lives nearby if walking isn’t possible.
- Stuff: Can you go a month without buying anything new? Think hard before buying something new. Do you really need it? Can you buy something secondhand instead? Maybe set a target of reducing purchases for a period of time.
- Energy: Turn down the thermostat, and turn off the heat in empty rooms. Now that some of us are working from home more, think hard about your heating costs. Turn down the thermostat: 18 degrees is the recommended level. Fill a hot water bottle and wrap your feet in a blanket with it while you’re working. Check your energy bills and switch to renewable tariffs if you can.
If you want to do more, consider signing up for our Carbon Literacy Training or Introduction to Eco Church. You can also calculate your personal carbon footprint using the WWF’s tool and find out how you match up to the average.
Happy Green New Year!
