It's sensible to make changes to your lifestyle that cost nothing before planning to invest in larger changes. Some people can reduce their carbon footprint by 10-20% just by taking measures that cost nothing at all. Some of these changes even save money! There are more ideas in our downloadable list of sustainability guidelines.

• Dry clothes outside
• Turn off lights you’re not using and don’t leave appliances on standby
• Turn down room and hot water thermostats by 1 or 2 degrees
• Review the times your heating and hot water come on and off
• Don’t boil more water than you need in the kettle
• Wait for a full load before running the washing machine or dishwasher
• Take a shower rather than a bath
• Keep the freezer de-frosted and position it in the coolest possible place 
• Close curtains at dusk and make sure they don’t block the radiators
• Put a bottle of water in your WC cistern so it uses less water to flush
  
• Compost food waste for use in the garden, use washing-up water to water the garden, and grow your own fruit and veg 
• Think twice before you buy things and make sure you actually need any new items.