Choose energy-efficient electrical appliances and low-energy lightbulbs. Compact fluorescent lightbulbs (CFL) use 75-80% less electricity than incandescent bulbs, and need replacing less often.

nsulate your home. The average home with loft insulation saves 9.5kg in CO2 emissions per week. Thermafleece makes insulation from the wool of British hill sheep www.secondnatureuk.com.

Cover your water heater with a lagging jacket of at least 75mm thick.

Turn off the standby switch in appliances.

When the old one packs up, upgrade to an eco boiler (defined as possessing an A Sedbuk rating) and install outdoor sensors which automatically adjust the boiler to adapt to different weather conditions.

Switch to a green energy provider.

For trips of less than five miles, cycle rather than taking the car (transport accounts for 22% of UK CO2 emissions).

Limit your foreign travel.

Buy local, seasonal food imported fruit and vegetables carry a substantial carbon burden. Use the postcode-based internet guide to local food at www.bigbarn.co.uk Try to buy unpackaged fruit and vegetables, or join a box scheme such as Abel www.abel-cole.co.uk