Climate chaos influences Brits' New Year's resolutions
Good Energy powers homes and businesses with 100% renewable electricity
According to new research, more than half of us intend to be greener next year but only 5% are able to pinpoint the simple lifestyle changes that have the biggest impact. @alexjellicoe recommends the top sustainable switches to cut your carbon in 2020.
Whereas once we pledged to lose weight or get fit, the health of the climate is now a major focus for New Year’s Resolutions, according to new research.
Although more than half of the population will be resolving to go green in 2020, just 5% of us are able to pinpoint the simple lifestyle changes that can have the biggest positive environmental impact.
Environmental scientist, Dr Alexandra Jellicoe, recommends the top five carbon-busting actions to add to your list of New Year’s resolutions:
Dr Alexandra Jellicoe
Eat less meat
Choose a green energy tariff
Fly less
Switch to an ethical bank
Walk or cycle more
Dr Jellicoe commented: “January is the perfect time to clean up your impact. Quick and easy changes to ditch fossil fuels include switching to a 100% renewable energy supplier and moving your money to an ethical bank.”
With the UK having legislated to cut its carbon emissions to net-zero by 2050, it’s more important than ever that consumers, business and politicians work together to tackle the climate emergency.
Juliet Davenport, CEO of Which? accredited 100% renewable energy company Good Energy, added: “It’s now or never for us all to do what’s needed to achieve net zero by 2050. We need every element of society – from government, businesses and the general public – to join forces and work towards our common goal of decarbonisation. It’s only then that we can start building.”
When it comes to switching energy supplier, only 15% of Brits have considered switching to 100% renewable energy, and almost half didn’t know that it is one of the biggest differences they could make to protect the environment.
The research also found that the majority of Brits are concerned about climate change and two thirds are prepared to make lifestyle changes to be more sustainable.
Nearly two thirds of people would choose a green tariff if it supported our move away from fossil fuels to a new clean energy system. The average household could cut more than 4 tonnes of carbon emissions from their footprint every year if they switched to 100% renewable energy – more than the emissions of four flights from London to New York.
Dr Jellicoe continued: “For fun, why not sign the Veganuary pledge and discover more plant-based food. It’s good for you and great for the planet. I’ll be having a clear out and selling any items or clothes I don’t use anymore. Someone else can give them love and they won’t end up as landfill.”