As we enter 2026, the climate crisis remains one of the defining challenges of our time, but the good news is that small, everyday choices can make a big difference. Whether you’re reducing waste, saving energy, or supporting clean community action, every step adds up.
Here are some simple but powerful ways to be greener in 2026 – for you, your home, and your community.
Support local and low-impact shopping
It’s estimated that UK supermarkets generate about 800,000 tonnes of plastic every year.
Buying locally grown produce and shopping from independent businesses reduces packaging, transport emissions, and supports vibrant local economies. Look out for farmers’ markets and independent grocers in your area — especially for fruit, vegetables, and pantry staples. Reducing plastic starts with everyday choices like these.
Tips to try:
1. Bring your own bags and containers.
2. Choose loose fruit & veg over pre-packaged options.
3. Support local makers and zero-waste stores.
Switch to a renewable energy supplier
Not everyone can install solar panels, but most households can choose a renewable electricity tariff. Switching to a certified green energy supplier cuts your carbon footprint and often saves money. Use comparison sites or speak with BHESCo to explore options that fit your home or business.
Make it matter:
1. Check your current tariff and look for verified renewable sources.
2. Consider time-of-use tariffs to save even more by using power when it’s cheapest.
Eat with the planet in mind
Food production is one of the biggest contributors to global emissions, especially meat and dairy. You don’t have to go fully plant-based to make an impact: even eating fewer animal products, choosing seasonal produce, and cutting food waste all help.
Easy swaps:
1. Try plant-centred meals like Meat-Free Mondays.
2. Plan meals to reduce food waste or compost leftovers.
Get moving - the green way
Transport accounts for a large share of our emissions. Choosing cycling, walking, or public transport not only reduces your carbon footprint but boosts your health too. In Brighton & Hove, community-driven sustainable transport options like solar-powered buses provide inspiring examples of how to travel greener.
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Try this:
1. Opt for Cycle to Work scheme which helps spread the cost of a new bike with tax incentives.
2. Share lifts or use local bike-share schemes.
3. Work remotely if it’s an option.
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. Community-led energy projects play a vital role in cutting carbon, tackling fuel poverty, and keeping the benefits of clean energy local.
Supporting community energy doesn’t always mean installing solar panels or leading a project yourself — sometimes it’s as simple as choosing the right energy tariff. BHESCo has partnered with Your Co-op Energy’s Power Back initiative, which gives back to community energy organisations when households switch to the Co-op’s 100% renewable Community Power tariff. By switching through BHESCo, you can reduce your carbon footprint while helping fund local community energy projects and climate action.
For those who want to get more involved, joining a local community energy group is a powerful next step. You can help bring clean, affordable energy to schools, community centres, churches, and other shared spaces – whether through financial support or by volunteering your time and skills.
Not sure if there’s a group near you? Visit the Community Energy England map to find one, or consider starting your own. Even a simple first step, like setting up a Facebook group or hosting a film screening, can help spark local interest.
Second hand shopping
Buying second-hand clothes, furniture, and household items significantly reduces waste and demand for new products. Extending the life of items keeps them out of landfills and cuts the environmental impacts of production and transport.
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Where to look:
1. Charity shops and vintage stores.
2. Online marketplaces like Vinted or Depop.
Make your home energy efficient
Reducing energy usage at home is one of the most effective ways to cut emissions and bills. Simple steps like switching to LED bulbs, draught-proofing doors and windows, or upgrading insulation can make a noticeable difference. For bigger improvements, BHESCo’s energy assessments can help you find high-impact upgrades.
Quick wins:
1. Replace old bulbs with LEDs.
2. Seal gaps around windows and doors.
3. Upgrade insulation where possible.
Cut food and household waste
Minimising waste not only saves money but also reduces emissions from landfill and production. Simple changes like using reusable containers, composting kitchen scraps, and choosing rechargeable batteries make everyday life greener.
Start small, grow big
You don’t have to adopt all these changes at once. Pick one or two that resonate with you, share them with friends and family, and watch the ripple effect grow. Greener choices are personal, practical, and most powerful when shared with others.
What have we missed? Tell us your tips in the comments below!
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