About Author
Charlotte Matthews
I cover all things green, from new EVs to greener living tips.
World Environmental Health Day returns this Thursday 26th September, and this year’s focus is on the close link between climate change and human health. From rising global temperatures to poor air quality in our cities, it’s clear that what’s bad for the planet is bad for us too.
So what can you do to make a difference?
We’ve pulled together a few simple steps you can take to live a little greener, from switching your car to saving energy at home. And no, you don’t need to live in a solar-powered yurt to make a positive impact.
The State of the World (and Why It Matters)
The past ten years have been the warmest ever recorded. In fact, 2023 beat all previous records for global heat, with temperatures in parts of Europe, Asia, and the U.S. reaching dangerous extremes. And this summer has been a bit of a scorcher for UK norms…
Why? It’s largely down to us, through decades of fossil fuel use, deforestation, industrial agriculture, and overconsumption. While we can’t undo the damage overnight, we can reduce its impact with smarter choices in our daily lives.
What’s Being Done Already?
The good news? Change is happening:
- The Paris Climate Agreement continues to push global action
- The UK has set legally binding Net Zero targets
- New petrol and diesel cars will be banned from sale by 2030 and hybrids by 2035
- Schemes are in place to reduce plastic waste, improve air quality, and support biodiversity
But policy can only go so far, individual action matters too.
Small Changes That Make a Big Difference
1. Drive Electric
The obvious one, and one of the biggest swaps you can make, is switching from a petrol or diesel car to an electric vehicle (EV). EVs produce far fewer emissions over their lifetime, especially when charged using renewable energy.
While the upfront cost is higher, EVs are cheaper to run, cheaper to maintain, and offer a cleaner, quieter drive.
Recycling your old car or donating it for scrap can also be a great way to reduce waste and support charity.
Curious about your options? Explore affordable EVs through our scheme.
2. Cut Back on Home Energy Use
It doesn’t need to be drastic. Lower your thermostat by one degree. Unplug appliances when not in use. Wash clothes at 30°C. Hang your laundry outside instead of using a tumble dryer. These small changes can slash your energy bills and your carbon footprint.
Employers Introducing the Scheme
Employees Going Green
3. Swap to LEDs
Still using old light bulbs? Switch to LEDs. They’re brighter, last longer, and use up to 80% less energy. They’re also cheaper over time, so it’s a win for your wallet and the environment.
4. Save Water (and Skip the Bottles)
Try shorter showers and install a low-flow showerhead. Avoid buying bottled water if you can – use a filter instead. It’s better for your health, your budget, and the planet.
5. Borrow, Don’t Buy
Borrow tools, rent equipment, and shop secondhand when you can. From clothing to tech, secondhand items reduce the demand for new manufacturing and help keep perfectly good goods out of landfill.
6. Rethink Cleaning
Cut down on paper towels and use washable cloths instead. Old t-shirts make great kitchen rags, and reusable tea towels are just as effective. Less waste, less plastic, and fewer trips to the shop.
7. Ditch Plastic Bags for Canvas
Swap single-use plastic bags for sturdy canvas ones.
They’re reusable, stronger, and can double as beach bags, gym kits, or stylish shopping totes. Support local artists or community projects, there are some brilliant designs out there doing good for people and planet alike.
8. Start Composting
A compost bin reduces waste and improves your garden. It’s cheaper than buying bagged compost (which often comes in plastic), and it’s a fantastic way to reuse food scraps, peelings, and garden trimmings.
Your plants will thank you.
9. Go Paperless
Opt for digital bills and bank statements. Recycle any paper you do use and try writing on both sides before tossing it. These small steps add up, especially when done at scale.
10. Eat Less Meat
Even reducing meat a few days a week can lower your carbon footprint. Livestock farming contributes heavily to greenhouse gas emissions, land degradation and water use. Plant-based options are now widely available and more delicious than ever.
So, What’s Next?
If you care about the future of the planet, and your own health, now’s the perfect time to make a change. Start small, keep going, and don’t underestimate the impact of everyday decisions.
And if you’re still driving petrol or diesel… Maybe it’s time to leaf that behind and turn over a greener one.
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Fleet Evolution offers innovative salary sacrifice schemes, helping employers and employees save on costs while promoting eco-friendly electric cars. Enjoy easy setup, free maintenance, and swift activation for any company size.
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