We are mid-way through 2025 but why wait until a new year to make changes. What better moment to embrace small changes in your lifestyle that can have a meaningful impact on the environment?
Here are some simple but powerful ways you can be more eco-friendly in 2025:
Buy from locally owned businesses
It’s estimated that UK supermarkets generate about 800,000 tonnes of plastic every year.
While eliminating plastic completely is nearly impossible, there are easy steps you can take to significantly cut back. For example, sourcing your fruit and veg from a local market or independent grocer often means less packaging—and it supports your local economy too.
It’s also crucial to dispose of plastic responsibly. Plastic bottles are currently the only plastic item that Brighton & Hove (and many other councils) can collect for recycling, so double-check what’s accepted in your area.
Switch to a renewable energy supplier
Not everyone can install solar panels, but anyone can switch to a renewable energy supplier. It’s one of the easiest and most impactful choices you can make to reduce your carbon footprint.
In many cases, switching to green energy can even save you money. Grab a recent bill from your current supplier and visit a comparison site like Uswitch to explore your options.
Change your diet
Animal agriculture is one of the leading causes of greenhouse gas emissions—more than all forms of transportation combined, according to studies cited in documentaries like Cowspiracy.
Reducing your intake of meat and dairy can drastically lower your personal carbon footprint. Even small changes, like adopting Meat-Free Mondays or choosing plant-based meals a few times a week, make a big difference.
What’s on your plate tonight?
Join your local community energy co-op (or start one!)
At BHESCo, we believe that the most powerful response to the climate crisis begins at a community level.
By joining a local community energy group, you can help bring clean, affordable energy to schools, community centres, churches, and more. Whether through financial support or volunteering your time and skills, your contribution can help drive positive local change.
Not sure if there’s a group near you? Visit the Community Energy England map to find one—or consider starting your own. A Facebook group or film screening can be a great first step to spark interest.
Cycle to work or take public transport
Cycling is a zero-emissions form of travel that boosts your fitness too. The Cycle to Work scheme helps you spread the cost of a new bike with tax incentives.
If you’re not a cyclist, consider using public transport a few days a week, or walking where possible. In Brighton and Hove, you can hop on the Big Lemon Bus, the UK’s first bus company powered by solar energy. They’ve even partnered with the Brighton Peace & Environment Centre to run solar-powered coaches to Glastonbury Festival!
Second hand shopping
Buying second-hand is one of the most effective ways to reduce your environmental impact—especially when it comes to clothing and household items.
Extending the lifecycle of a garment by just nine months can reduce its carbon footprint by 20–30%. Thrift shops, vintage stores, charity shops, online marketplaces like Vinted or Depop, and local clothing swaps are all great ways to keep usable items out of landfills.
Plus, shopping second-hand helps reduce demand for fast fashion, which is one of the most resource-intensive industries in the world. It is also more cost-effective for you!
Where to start first?
There are lots of different actions that we can all take to reduce our impact on the environment, and you can choose to focus on what is most important to you, whether that’s fashion, food, or football.
Once you have decided what you want to do, then shout about it to your family and friends, and see who else you can inspire to make a positive change.
What have we missed out?
Leave your thoughts in the Comments Section below.
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