Save hot water
Keep showers as short as possible to save both water and the energy needed to heat the water.

Switch off lights when they are not in use
Saving electricity is a great way to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, which are a major contributor to climate change.

Help sort out your recycling at home
Recycling stops re-usable items from ending up in landfill and therefore decreases greenhouse gas emissions.

Plant trees
Trees absorb carbon dioxide and help to reduce greenhouse gases in the atmosphere.

Buy energy efficient appliances
When buying a new electrical appliance, look for ones with higher energy efficiency ratings - they'll reduce your bills and carbon pollution.

Take public transport, ride or walk whenever you can
Catching the bus or train, riding your bike or walking is better for the environment than travelling by car, especially for short journeys.

Save energy
Hang your washing on the line instead of putting it in the dryer, so the sun and wind can dry it naturally.

Turn off appliances at the plug
You can save power by turning off electrical appliances at the plug, before you leave the house or when they are not being used.

Drive better
You can drive better to improve the fuel efficiency of your car by servicing your car regularly, driving in the right gear, using air conditioning only when needed, not speeding and minimising your vehicle use.

Manage your own climate
In winter make sure you are wearing warm clothes before turning up the heater. This helps to save electricity and gas. In summer, keep your house cool by keeping windows, doors, blinds and curtains closed during the day. Set your heating thermostat one or two degrees lower (e.g. 20) and your cooling one or two degrees higher (e.g. 22) - it's amazing how much difference these small changes can make to your overall energy consumption.

 

For more ideas on how you can help as a business, individual, community, teacher or student, visit the Department of Climate Change and Energy's 'What you can do' page.