Creating a sustainable York

We all need to start to alter the way we do things in order to create a sustainable York. We need to consume less, produce things differently and in a more environmentally friendly way.

As a resident or local business you can take actions to help create a more sustainable York.

One way to reduce your impact is to calculate your carbon footprint. Your carbon footprint specifically measures the total amount of carbon dioxide you create through your lifestyle choices and through the products and activities you consume daily. By understanding your footprint you can then take steps to reduce it.

Here are some more actions to take:

Improve your home

• Turning your thermostat down by just one degree could reduce carbon emissions and cut fuel bills.
• Think about insulating your home. Loft insulation is the most cost-effective and energy efficient measure to reduce losses and the easiest to install. You could also consider installing draught proofing.
• Using low energy lighting can reduce the amount of energy used in lighting your home. low-energy light bulbs also last a lot longer than ordinary bulbs and save you money.
  Using household appliances
• If you have access to a suitable space, hanging your clothes outside rather than using the tumble dryer will reduce your CO2 emissions. They will dry quickly and smell fresh too.
• Invest in an A-rated dishwasher, because a well-filled load once a day is more efficient than many bowls of hot water, or a running tap, to wash dishes.
• Choose a laptop instead of a desktop computer, as on average a laptop consumes around 30% less power.
• Stand-by energy is wasted energy. Switch everything off when not it use. You will save money too!
• Only boil as much water as you need in your kettle

On the road

• Reduce the number of short trips you make in the car. Walking, cycling, or taking public transport helps reduce local air pollution and the climate change effects of using vehicles to get around
• Use public transport regularly: by doing so you are cutting your own CO2 emissions and contributing to less congestion and pollution on the road

For more information, including additional 'green' tips and ways to save money visit the Act on CO2 website or download a copy of the ‘Creating a Sustainable York' leaflet

The guide offers useful tips on how to:

• save energy, money and improve your home;
• take smarter travel choices;

• re-use and recycle;

• compost and grow you own food; and
• create a sustainable business.

Printed copies are also available by telephoning (01904) 551550

Business

Large, medium and small businesses can take action too. Contact the local North Yorkshire Green Business Club for information, advice and signposting to help you to develop and use environmentally sound management practices and make the most out of business opportunities.