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In the fight to curb climate change, the UK government is challenged to reduce its carbon emissions to net-zero by 2050.

Data published by the Committee on Climate Change last year, indicated targets “fell well short”. The report also mentions that one of the top four contributors to the UK’s carbon footprint is residential homes.

Homeowners, therefore, have a responsibility to reduce your carbon footprint. Listed below are some of the most energy-efficient solutions that will make a significant impact in the effort to reduce carbon emissions.

Energy Efficient Lights and Appliances

LED lighting and energy-efficient appliances are flooding the market. Manufacturers have been subjected to strict regulations to deliver five-star energy rated appliances such as refrigerators and washing machines.

The Energy Savings Trust report that lighting alone uses 20% of the national grids electricity supply. LED lights could reduce your carbon dioxide emissions by up to 65kg a year.

Energy Efficient Windows 

Homes with traditional windows lose as much as 25-30 per cent of the heat generated by your central heating systems through windows. Energy-efficient “A-rated” windows are designed to eliminate draughts so you lose less heat from your home. By retaining more heat around the house, you will not keep the central heating on as long, not only lowering your carbon footprint but also your heating bill.

Electric Boilers

The latest central heating systems are designed to retain around 90% of the energy they generate and reduce the amount of wasted energy. Ultimately, A-rated boilers use less electricity and can save up to £350 a year on utility bills. Modern boilers also have a wi-fi-enabled thermostat which gives you more control over the temperature directly from your mobile phone.

Switch To Renewable Energy 

Traditional power plants poses the biggest problem in the fight to halt climate change. Government statistic reveal that power station account for 16 per cent of all carbon dioxide emissions in the UK. The energy-efficient solution is to switch to renewable energy sources using nature to drive power. Solar-powered roofing tiles, wind-powered heating systems and geothermal heat pumps are becoming more widespread in urban settings

Upgrade Your Insulation

Insulating your home improves the thermal performance all year round. In the winter, it prevents the cold from causing a chill and in the summer wards off heat to keep your house cool.

During the winter months, the performance of home insulation has a significant role to play in keeping your home snug and cosy. As much as 35% of the heat in an uninsulated home is lost through the walls, 25% through the roof and the remaining 40% through windows, doors and floors.

According to Energy Saving Trust, insulating your loft with a minimal 270mm of mineral wool will save reduce C02 emission by between 550kg in a mid-terrace house and 1030kg in a detached home. Insulating walls can reduce your carbon footprint by around 27%.

Improving the energy efficiency of your home may only make a minor difference to climate change, but when everybody makes an effort to upgrade their home, the collective will make a significant impact.

Shelby Grey