Public Sector Told To Cut Carbon Emissions By 25%

In amongst all the negative stories that float around the internet these days, there’s been a piece of fantastically positive news too. It comes courtesy of the Guardian newspaper, who reported that the government is intent on ordering every single public sector body to cut its carbon emissions by 25% over the next five years. The project will be called the ‘25:5 Campaign’ and it seems like good news - a reduction of all carbon emissions by 25% by 2016. The campaign does seem to have attracted a little controversy, with the newspaper alleging there is some resistance from the Treasury. As always, five years is a long time in politics, but lets all hope this project manages to come to fruition to help reduce the overall amount of carbon emissions contributing to climate change.

Large scale plans like this one may or may not be realised, and there is always plenty more to be done. Whatever governments, companies and institutions contribute, there’s still loads of positive steps you can take at home, in the office, in schools and more. I always think the whole concept is just such a ‘win win’… From very little initial outlay, every small change goes on saving money year after year - and cuts your carbon footprint straight away. One easy way to start is to use the online Carbon Calculator , to see how much you’re producing.

At home and in the office, one incredibly easy way to cut bills and emissions is to simply use a standby power saver. Some appliances can use up to 70% of the power when they’re on standby? You could save up to 10% on your bills and some come with a handy remote control. For busier lifestyles, there is even a USB device that lets you control your appliances from your PC/Mac/laptop, over the internet or via your mobile.

And for those with children, another easy step to make is simply talking to your child’s teachers. You can encourage them to visit My Greener School. The website has plenty of lesson planning resources; greener living guides; and useful products to cut the school’s running costs.

Photo Credit: Enough Pollution by Zsolt Zatrok.