40% of carbon emissions comes from homes, so making changes here will have a big impact on the environment – and on your bank balance too.
There are also things you can do to limit emissions when you’re getting from A to B.
There are some ways that you can reduce the cost of your heating and help the environment:
- Move furniture away from radiators so they can heat more of the room.
- Close your curtains as the sun goes down to stop heat escaping through windows.
- Use draught excluders under doors, and keep doors closed whenever possible.
- Draught-proof your letter box, cat flap and keyholes - but make sure you don't drill or hammer into a fire door.
- If you’ve got storage heaters, our electric heating webpage tells you more about how to get the best from them and how to use your off-peak immersion tank to save you money.
Did you know? We're working to improve the energy efficiency rating of our existing homes - including by installing new measures like air source heat pumps, which can help you use less energy and keep your home warmer. Read more about this work on our Greener future page.
Using less hot water will save you money and reduce your carbon emissions. You could make some simple changes, for example:
- Taking shorter showers.
- Using a low-flow shower head.
- Using a washing up bowl instead of filling a sink.
- A hosepipe sprays 16 litres of water a minute. Instead, use a bucket and sponge to wash your windows or car. If the water isn’t too soapy, you can water your garden afterwards too. (Our Transform your outside space page has extra advice on reducing how much water you use in the garden.)
Contact your water company for more water saving tips. You might be able to get some free water saving devices from them.
Switching lights to LED light bulbs saves energy and your lighting costs. LED alternatives can now be found for all types of light fittings.
Take a look at our video on different types of light bulb in your home for more information.
Remember to dispose of old light bulbs responsibly. Check with your local council for where you can recycle light bulbs (usually not with kerbside recycling).
Try remembering to turn off lights when you leave a room and avoid leaving devices on standby. These small changes will save considerable energy and money!
If you're thinking about buying a new appliance, try to buy energy efficient models. All appliances have an energy label, ranked A-G, with A being the most efficient. Find out more about energy labels.
Try to repair old appliances before you replace them, as manufacturing new products uses a lot of energy. Check if you have a local repair cafe near you, where skilled volunteers can help you fix broken items sustainably.
The easiest way to cut emissions from transport is to try and travel less - which saves you money on fuel or bus and train tickets. Consider whether journeys are essential and how you could combine trips.
Working from home, if you're able to, can save emissions from your commute. And if you can’t - have you thought about lift-sharing? Visit Liftshare for more information.
If your journeys are essential, using public transport that is running anyway is a great way to cut emissions. Buses, trains, metros, and ferries provide an efficient, eco-friendly way to get around - fewer cars on the road mean cleaner air and a healthier planet. (You'll also avoid parking charges!)
Want to get involved?
Visit the Sustainability Group part of our engagement website 
to find out about joining the SNG Customer Sustainability Group or taking part in monthly eco challenges (with prizes!)