Nine things to do on climate right now
You’ve probably seen that governments from around the world are in Glasgow discussing how they are going to take action on the climate crisis.
Whether you’re feeling inspired, anxious, optimistic or overwhelmed, a great way to deal with those feelings is to take practical action in your life right now and inspire others around you to do so too.
Here are nine ideas on where to get started:
1. Get in touch with your MP
As your representative in parliament, your MP is key to delivering climate action here in the UK. Too often, politicians say that they want to do more on climate, but don’t feel that it matters to their voters. That’s why it’s so important to reach out.
Not sure where to start? We’re running training to get you tooled up and confident in talking to your MP about climate change.
2. Switch it up in the kitchen
When it comes to what we eat, there are loads of ways you can cut your own emissions, and plenty you can do to encourage others to get on board.
Gradually reducing meat and dairy in your diet, (even if it’s a little bit) can make a world of difference, you don’t need to go cold tofurkey. This could also mean reducing food waste, eating seasonally and buying locally grown produce or even opting for plastic-free packaging when doing your groceries.
Having your friends and family over for a plant-based feast is a brilliant way to introduce others to delicious low-carbon meals whilst also being the perfect setting to talk about climate action together.
3. Move your money
Even if your home is powered by 100% clean energy (if so, nice work!) you might be inadvertently financing fossil fuels through your bank, pension or other investments.
Don’t worry - there are ethical options out there, you just need to know where to look. We’ve got some tips, but if you’re looking for more detailed reports, check out Bank Track.
4. Plant some trees
We need to be planting millions more trees here in the UK, because they draw down carbon back into the soil while helping local nature to flourish.
This winter, we’ll be planting hundreds of trees with the help of volunteers all over the country. Whether you already manage your own little forest, or if you’ve no idea which end of a spade is which - we’d love for you to join us.
5. Get on your bike
If you have a bicycle that you haven’t been using as much as you’d like, this could be the time to change that.
Global Cycling Network’s YouTube account has some handy videos on how to mend common bike problems (from fixing punctures, to replacing brake pads). And if you’re feeling really inspired, check out our Car Free Cities campaign.
6. Curl up with a good book
Climate literature deepens our understanding of the situation we are in, and allows us to imagine a different future. It’s also a great way to get talking to other people about this critical issue.
As the nights are drawing in, curl up with a good book on climate. Here’s some ideas to get you started.
7. Draft proof your home for winter
Making your home more energy efficient is a great way to cut carbon, especially if you have a gas boiler. It’ll also cut your bills and keep you warmer.
Drafts are one of the commonest ways our homes leak energy but there are some simple solutions that can plug these gaps such as adding some weather strips round the edges of your windows and doors to seal them.
8. Don’t give a lump of coal this Christmas
The festive period is coming up, and it’s a great time to gift your way into climate conversations with your friends and family.
Rather than buying new gifts from the shops this Christmas, why not craft your own, upcycle some clothes or furniture, or make your own chutneys or jams. Aside from being lower carbon, they’re packed with far more love.
9. Make climate friendly travel a thing in 2022
Flying less is one of the most powerful actions we can take to cut carbon, but time is often a key barrier to people being able to choose more climate friendly travel.
This is where Climate Perks comes in. Employers who sign-up to the scheme offer their workers paid ‘journey days’ to staff who travel on holiday by train, coach or boat instead of flying.
We know that individual action isn’t the be all and end all of tackling the climate crisis but the truth is we need everyone, acting on every level. World leaders at COP26, individuals, communities, businesses, and politicians are all already taking action.
Will you join us in taking climate action today?