Are you inspired after COP26?

1:27pm - 18 November 2021
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The effects of climate change are already being seen around the world – record-breaking heatwaves, devastating floods and heatwaves.

COP26 - the UN’s two-week global climate conference in Glasgow – has now drawn to a close with some agreements being made to cut global emissions and limit temperature rise.

However, some scientists have raised concerns that the politicians won’t keep their promises and the agreements don’t go far enough.

While we need governments to play their part, there are actions you can also take on an individual level to reduce your own carbon footprint.

An inspiring read to energise people in the wake of COP26 on The Guardian website.

It’s never too late to start and even if you think your own actions won’t make a difference, they do when those actions are multiplied by many individuals.

We need to take action now for the sake of our children and grandchildren.

If you’re not sure where to begin, ‘greening’ your finances is a great way to make a start on your net zero journey by ensuring your money is being used as a force for good.

Most high street banks and private pensions are heavily invested in fossil fuels.

By moving your ISA or savings account to a more sustainable bank or building society, it can instead be invested in green projects such as generating renewable energy.

Going one step further and moving your current account to a more sustainable bank or building society is another way to make a big impact and also sends an important message to financial institutions that they need to realign their portfolios to support climate action projects.

Find out more using independent websites such as Ethical Consumer, Which? or Switch It.

It’s also worth checking where your private pension-provider invests your money – check their climate change policy and consider moving to a more sustainable provider if you’re not happy.

Follow the Climate Action North Somerset Facebook group for other hints and tips.

You can also find out more about what we’re doing as an organisation to tackle climate change on our climate emergency section of the website.