Take climate action in Edinburgh
We all need to be willing to change the way we do things and work together in new ways to help Edinburgh become a net zero, climate ready city by 2030. The choices we make every day can lead to big reductions in emissions. There are lots of ways you can take climate action in Edinburgh.
Get clued up
Understanding your carbon footprint and using calculators, such as the , will help you discover your impact on the environment and identify where you can reduce it.
Travel greener
- Where possible, walk, wheel, cycle or use public transport instead of driving
- Choose holiday destinations that are closer to home and can be reached using public transport
Reduce emissions from your home
- Improve the energy efficiency of your home
- Find out if greener heating, like a heat pump, may be an option for you
- for tips on reducing energy use at home
Reduce waste
- Recycle what can’t be reused in the correct bins
- Reduce your food waste and use your food waste bin and/or home compost
- Make things last and recycle or donate when they can’t be reused. Use our reuse tool to find out how
- with plant-based alternatives
Encourage plants and wildlife
- Support Edinburgh’s One Million tree project
- Make your garden as wildlife friendly as possible by growing local plants, trees and bushes which help local wildlife and help with adapting the city to climate change
- Remove paving, tarmac and artificial grass from private driveways and front gardens, to help reduce flooding
Save water
- Use a water butt in your garden to collect water which can be used to water your plants
- for tips to save water inside and outside your home
Actions speak louder than words
Use your purchasing power to send strong signals to businesses by choosing products and services that are more environmentally friendly. This includes choosing when possible
- seasonal, organic, and locally grown food
- second-hand items
- low-packaged and plastic free items
- goods and services from ethical brands.
There is a range of zero waste shops in Edinburgh. You can take a look at to identify refill shops in your area.
You can also
- use your democratic power to make your voice heard in local and national decision making
- get involved with local services, community groups and neighbours supporting the right changes when you see them. Remember to advocate for change when you don’t.
