In an era defined by climate action and sustainability, the recent changes to the UK Government’s net-zero strategy underscore the urgency of our collective responsibility to combat climate change. But, as the saying goes, “charity begins at home.” As homeowners, each of us holds the power to make a tangible difference in the fight against carbon emissions. In this article, we’ll explore the pivotal connection between the UK’s evolving net-zero policies and the essential steps homeowners can take to significantly reduce their own domestic carbon footprints. Join us on a journey towards “Greening Your Nest,” where we’ll uncover practical, cost-effective ways to make your home a beacon of environmental responsibility.

This week, Rishi Sunak removed a number of key targets that formed the UK’s commitment to ‘net zero’ in terms of carbon emissions. Several of these focused on areas directly affecting homeowners, namely:

• Delaying the ban on installing oil and LPG boilers, and new coal heating, for off-gas-grid homes to 2035, instead of phasing them out from 2026. Many of these homes are not suitable for heat pumps, so this ensures homeowners are not having to spend around £10-15,000 on upgrading their homes in just three years’ time.
• Set an exemption to the phase out of fossil fuel boilers, including gas, in 2035, so that households who will most struggle to make the switch to heat pumps or other low-carbon alternatives won’t have to do so. This is expected to cover about a fifth of homes, including off-gas-grid homes – those that will need expensive retrofitting or a very large electricity connection.
• Scrap policies to force landlords to upgrade the energy efficiency of their properties, but instead continue to encourage households to do so where they can.
• Raise the Boiler Upgrade Grant by 50% to £7,500 to help households who want to replace their gas boilers with a low-carbon alternative like a heat pump.

In the United Kingdom, domestic homes are estimated to be responsible for around 15-20% of the country’s total carbon emissions. This includes emissions from heating, electricity use, transportation related to household activities, and indirect emissions associated with the production of goods and services consumed by households. It goes without saying therefore, that homeowners have a crucial role to play in reducing carbon emissions and mitigating the effects of climate change. Here are a number of actions that you can take:

Improve Home Energy Efficiency:

• • Invest in proper insulation for walls, roofs, and floors.
  • Seal gaps and cracks in doors and windows to prevent drafts.
  • Upgrade to energy-efficient windows and doors, and consider applying reflective films to reduce solar gain.
  • Replace traditional incandescent bulbs with LED or CFL lighting.
  • Consider installing solar tubes to maximise daylight indoors
  • Install a programmable thermostat to optimise heating and cooling.

Switch to Renewable Energy Sources:

• • Consider installing solar panels on your roof to generate clean energy. Pair this with battery storage solutions to ensure you can utilise your energy most effectively, rather than selling it back to the grid.
  • Explore community solar programs or green energy tariffs offered by utility companies.
  • Use solar water heaters for domestic hot water needs.

Reduce Water Consumption:

• • Fix leaks in sinks, taps, toilets, and pipes promptly.
  • Install low-flow showerheads and taps.
  • Consider using grey-water collection for flushing toilets.

Choose Energy-Efficient Appliances:

• • Opt for energy-efficient appliances, like washing machines and dishwashers.
  • Look for the ENERGY STAR label when purchasing new appliances.

Upgrade HVAC Systems:

• • Replace old, inefficient heating and cooling systems with high-efficiency models.
  • Schedule regular maintenance to ensure your HVAC system operates efficiently.

Invest in Smart Home Technology:

• • Use smart thermostats, lights, and appliances that can be controlled remotely to optimise energy use.

Adopt Sustainable Landscaping Practices:

• • Plant native trees and shrubs to enhance biodiversity.
  • Use drought-resistant plants to reduce water consumption.
  • Compost kitchen scraps and garden waste.

Conserve Water:

• • Collect rainwater for outdoor use.
  • Install water-saving fixtures in your home.
  • Water your lawn and garden during non-peak hours.

Support Sustainable Building Materials:

• • Choose eco-friendly building materials if you’re building or renovating your home.
  • Consider reclaimed or recycled materials.

Reduce Car Emissions:

• • Choose eco-friendly transportation options like walking, biking, or using public transit.
  • Consider purchasing an electric or hybrid vehicle.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle:

• • Recycle paper, cardboard, glass, plastic, and metal.
  • Reduce waste by buying products with minimal packaging.
  • Reuse items when possible or consider donating them.

Reduce Single-Use Plastics:

• • Use reusable shopping bags, water bottles, and containers.
  • Avoid disposable plastic cutlery and straws.

Support Renewable Energy Policy:

• • Advocate for policies that promote renewable energy and energy efficiency at the local and national levels.

Educate Yourself and Others:

• • Stay informed about climate change and carbon reduction strategies.
  • Share knowledge and encourage others in your community to take action.

Remember that small changes in your daily life can collectively make a significant impact. By adopting sustainable practices, homeowners can contribute to the global effort to combat climate change and reduce carbon emissions.

Infinity ProServ offer a wide range of maintenance and support services to homeowners and small businesses, including many of the ideas outlined above. Complete the form below, or call 0800 148 8088 to see just how we can help you.