When you’re doing up your home, bear in mind that manufacturing items like furniture and flooring uses a surprising amount of energy and water. That leads to CO2 emissions which contribute to climate change, so choosing carefully when you’re shopping can make a big difference to your carbon footprint. What’s more, choosing energy efficient fittings can also make a big difference to the size of your energy bills.
An energy saving light bulb produces less CO2 and saves you money over its lifetime, as well as lasting up to 10 times longer than an ordinary bulb.
Energy saving bulbs work in standard fittings and lamps, and are widely available at low prices (including in supermarkets). You can buy ones that look similar to old-style bulbs and give out the same coloured light, and some are even available for use with dimmer switches.
Trees absorb carbon dioxide, so if they are cut down and not replaced, there is an increase in CO2 which contributes to climate change. Choose wooden furniture or flooring products made from sustainable timber – look for labels from the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification schemes (PEFC) or ask your retailer about certification schemes.
It takes a large amount of energy and water to manufacture furniture and flooring, so think about whether you need to buy brand new. You can save valuable resources and add character to your home by buying second-hand or vintage items, or by using reclaimed floorboards. You could even get items for free via sharing schemes like Freecycle.
When choosing new bathroom fittings, there are a number of ways you can save water and therefore energy. Look for water-efficient shower heads; low flush or dual-flush toilets; and aerator or spray fittings for taps in hand basins (these may not be appropriate for baths or sinks, as the water flow may be slow to fill them).
Though the UK often seems to be awash with water, with a growing population and ever-increasing water use, we can’t carry on using water in the same way.
The average UK citizen will generate 3.3 tonnes of electronic waste in their lifetime. Manufacturing electronic goods like computers, televisions, fridges and washing machines requires large amounts of energy and raw materials, and this contributes to climate change.
The threat to our country from dangerous heat waves, floods, wildfires and droughts are significantly increased by climate change
Instead of throwing away your old furniture, try donating it to a charity shop (although old foam-filled furniture may be a fire risk and should be disposed of), recycling it or passing it on via sharing schemes like Freecycle.