Worried about your family’s energy use, or keen to do your bit for the planet? The good news is that reducing your carbon footprint doesn’t have to mean a big life overhaul. Most of the changes that make a real difference are small, free, and easy to build into everyday family life — and several of them will save you money too.
What is a carbon footprint?
A carbon footprint is a measure of the impact we each have on the environment, usually expressed in units of carbon dioxide (CO2). CO2 is the best-known greenhouse gas, produced mainly by burning fossil fuels like coal and oil, and by deforestation.
Other greenhouse gases add to the picture too:
- Methane — generated by landfills and agriculture
- Nitrous oxide — produced by industry and fossil fuel burning
- Tropospheric ozone — created when sunlight reacts with pollutants such as vehicle emissions
- Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) — chemicals historically used in refrigeration and air conditioning
Most of these gases occur naturally, but our lifestyles over the last century or so have pushed levels up significantly, contributing to global warming.
Measuring your own or your family’s carbon footprint is a useful way to see where changes could help — it might be something as simple as washing clothes on a cooler setting, or something bigger, like leaving the car at home more often.
Research from the Energy Saving Trust has found that many households waste energy through everyday habits — leaving appliances on standby, or forgetting to switch off lights in empty rooms, are two common examples. Breaking habits like these is often the easiest place to start. If you’d like to see where you personally stand, try this online carbon footprint calculator.
Whether it’s a small first step or a bigger commitment, reducing your household’s carbon footprint starts at home — and every bit helps.
Simple ways to reduce your carbon footprint
The changes below won’t cost you anything to make — in fact, most of them will save you money over time.
- Sign up to a green energy supplier that sources electricity from renewables (like wind or hydroelectric power) — this can bring your electricity-related carbon footprint close to zero
- Turn it off when it’s not in use — lights, TV, games consoles, computers, and other electronics
- Turn the central heating down slightly — even 1–2°C makes a difference
- Lower the water heating setting — a 2°C drop can add up to a noticeable saving
- Check your heating timer — there’s no need to heat an empty house after everyone’s left for the day
- Only run the dishwasher and washing machine with a full load — it saves water, electricity, and detergent
- Boil only as much water in the kettle as you actually need
- Unplug phones and devices once they’re finished charging
- Defrost the fridge and freezer regularly so they run efficiently
- Combine errands and do your weekly shop in one trip instead of several
- Hang washing out to dry rather than using the tumble dryer when you can
- Walk or cycle for exercise instead of driving to the gym
None of these changes require a big investment of time or money — just a bit of awareness and a few new habits. Try picking two or three to start with, and build from there as a family.
You might also enjoy reading Top Tips for Energy Conservation for Your Family.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the easiest way to start reducing my carbon footprint?
Start with habits that cost nothing — turning off lights and appliances when you leave a room, and washing clothes on a cooler setting. Small, consistent changes add up faster than one big gesture.
Does switching energy supplier really make a difference?
Choosing a supplier that sources electricity from renewables like wind or hydro power can significantly cut the carbon footprint linked to your household electricity use.
Can kids get involved in reducing the family’s carbon footprint?
Yes — jobs like switching off lights, unplugging chargers, and helping sort laundry loads are simple, age-appropriate ways for children to take part and build good habits early.
Do these changes actually save money as well?
Yes. Turning down heating slightly, running full loads in the washing machine and dishwasher, and switching off standby devices all tend to lower household bills as well as energy use.
Related articles
- Top Tips for Energy Conservation for Your Family
- Easy Eco-Friendly Habits for Busy Families
- Family Activities That Get Kids Thinking About the Environment
Before you go
Want more everyday ideas like this? Sign up for our free newsletter for family activities, offers, and practical tips delivered straight to your inbox — it’s free, and you can unsubscribe any time.
