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Government research published last year found that 85 per cent of people in the UK are concerned about the impacts of climate change.
However, it’s important to remember there is still time for us to act. The UK is well-placed to set an example to the world in addressing the causes and consequences of climate change.
Today (Friday) is the last day of COP27, the United Nations’ global climate change conference.
For the last two weeks, world leaders, ministers, negotiators, climate activists and representatives have met in Egypt to agree ways of delivering action on an array of issues critical to tackling the climate emergency.
Locally, we’re committed to tackling the climate emergency and creating a thriving, sustainable North Somerset.
In North Somerset our greenhouse gas emissions come from:
- transport – 40 per cent
- energy use at home - 25 per cent
- business energy use – 21 per cent
- farming (agriculture, forestry and land use) – 10 per cent
- waste – 4 per cent.
In 2019 we produced a climate change strategy and action plan after declaring a climate emergency.
Several projects identified in the original action plan have now been completed so an updated version has been developed to reflect the next key areas of focus.
We’re working to create a thriving and sustainable North Somerset and this refreshed action plan reconfirms our commitment to achieve net zero by 2030.
Many of these actions can also improve our lives in other ways, such as improving our physical and mental wellbeing and reducing NHS costs.
Find out how you can take climate action to help create a healthier, happier, greener North Somerset for everyone by visiting our website.
If you’re inspired by COP27 to reduce your emissions, it can be helpful to work out your current carbon footprint first.
Social enterprise Giki Zero has an online carbon footprint calculator as well as lots of tips to help people reduce emissions and live more sustainably.
We’ve created a Climate Action North Somerset account on Giki Zero to encourage more people in the local area to personalise their journey to net zero.
Maybe you could have one car-free day per week, turn down the heating a degree or two, have a meat-free day at least once a week, grow flowers, plants, trees, herbs, fruit or vegetables, or help spread the word about what you’re doing.
You could also share your tips and meet like-minded people on the Climate Action North Somerset Facebook group.
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.
Grants for home energy measures
Homes across North Somerset could be made more energy efficient thanks to £2.7m of government funding.
We’re working with Bath and North East Somerset Council and Bristol City Council to help eligible households install technologies which help lower energy costs and reduce carbon emissions, thanks to funding through the Bright Green Homes project.
Up to £25,000 is available to eligible households, which can be used for measures such as loft, underfloor, external or cavity wall insulation or double glazing, as well as air source heat pumps and solar panels.
To qualify you must meet the following criteria:
- your property must not use gas central heating, only solid fuel or electric heating
- have a combined annual household income of under £30,000
- have a valid Energy Performance Certificate with a D, E, F or G rating
- live in North Somerset.
If you meet the criteria, complete an online questionnaire and the project team will contact you.
If you have any questions call 0117 352 1180 or email domestic@energyservicebristol.co.uk