Climate change: Four things you can do about your carbon footprint – BBC News

But as individuals we also contribute to damaging emissions. Here are some things you can do to reduce your personal impact.
3. Drive less, fly less
Transport is responsible for almost a quarter of carbon dioxide global emissions.
Living car-free might be “the most impactful thing we can do to reduce our transport emissions”, according to Dr Jennings.
However, ditching the car is not possible for everyone, particularly if you live in an area without good public transport, or work night shifts when it isn’t running.
Small steps still have an impact, like walking and cycling to the local shops or sharing car journeys with friends or neighbours.

Electric cars are becoming more widespread, but they are still expensive. And it is only truly green travel if the electricity used to power the car comes from green energy sources, such as wind or solar. Low-carbon sources made up 58% of the UK’s electricity in 2020, including nuclear.

Unfortunately for keen travellers, flying is one of the most carbon-intensive things we can do as individuals.

Domestic flights have the largest emissions per person per kilometre.

Train journeys can have less than a fifth of the impact of a domestic flight, although they might be more expensive. Booking in advance can help reduce the cost.

“For those who fly a lot, reducing the number of flights you take will make a considerable difference to your personal footprint,” says Dr Jennings.