As COP 26 closes, what can we do to make our local area cleaner, greener and safer?

Nov 15, 2021 | News

Here’s a few reminders of just some of things we can do to help the climate and world we live in.

Did you know that transport accounts for 26% of all greenhouse gases emitted in the UK? It’s not easy or, possible, for everyone but, have you thought about leaving your car at home when you can?
Food production is responsible for a quarter of all greenhouse gas emissions. Planning a weekly menu at home can help reduce waste, try to buy local, seasonal fruit and veg or, if you have the time and space grow your own!
Food waste that is sent to landfill doesn’t harmlessly breakdown. It has a big impact on the environment as it rots and releases methane. You can stop this by putting your food waste in your food waste caddy or compost it yourself.
The average showerhead uses 12 litres of water per minute. Reduce the amount of water you use by having a quicker shower.        Less energy used means less emission of greenhouse gases. Check your insulation and light bulbs to make sure your home is energy efficient. You can turn your heating down, switch off your computer or TV rather than keeping them on standby when not in use, reduce your washing machine temperature to 30⁰C, switch your bulbs and increase your insulation to save money and energy.

Action Surrey has lots of useful information and grants available for residents. Visit www.actionsurrey.org or call 0800 783 2503

At the GBC Councillor Joss Bigmore, Leader of the Council, said: “As a borough council, we have opportunities to make what we do greener and to bring together local groups and individuals who are uniquely placed to make a difference. In 2019 we declared a climate emergency and published an action plan in July 2020. The net greenhouse gas emissions from our activities fell by over 21% between 2016-17 and 2019-20. The total fell from 10,998 tonnes in 2016-17 to 8,586 tonnes in 2019-20. We are committed to becoming a net-zero carbon borough by 2030 and we will continue to find more ways to reduce our impact on this previous planet.”
You can read more about what the GBC is doing to make our borough a greener place, here.

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