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How Much CO₂ Does the Average UK Household Produce?

Do you ever wonder how much CO₂ (carbon dioxide) your home is producing? This is a common question and it isn’t always easy finding the answer- an answer which is so important.

Whether it’s bills your worried about, the state of the planet, or both, getting to grips with your home’s carbon footprint is the perfect way to make meaningful changes.

What is CO₂ and Why Does it Matter to You?

It’s one of the main greenhouse gases that contributes to climate change – creating long term shifts in world temperatures and weather patterns. CO₂ is mostly created when we heat our homes, cook our meals, and generate electricity by burning fossil fuels such as:

  • Gas
  • Coal
  • Oil

And even though we cannot see it, carbon dioxide or CO₂ is around us at all times. The average home in the UK contributes to a large amount of it each year – mostly by consuming energy at home and travelling by car.

A Closer Look at the UK Household Carbon Footprint

Recent Government data reveals that the average household in the UK produces a massive 8 to 10 tonnes of CO₂ every single year.

There are around 30 million dwellings in the UK and this CO₂ production comes from:

  • Heating the home – Nearly 50% of the homes carbon emissions come from heating the home and its water. Those using gas boilers normally emit more CO₂ than those that use electricity, especially if that electricity is sourced by renewable sources.
  • Electricity consumption – Lights, everyday appliances like TV’s, fridges, kettles, all add up quickly. The average household emits around 1 to 2 tonnes of CO₂ from electricity output alone. However this depends on how energy-efficient the property is and how green the electricity supply is.
  • Travelling – Though not related to home energy use, car journeys made by members of a home contribute in a big way. Driving a car that runs off petrol or diesel adds to the overall carbon footprint of your household.

Do Older Homes Produce More CO₂?

Yes they do! Many older properties in the UK were built  before modern insulation and heating standards came into play. It also means they lose heat rapidly and need more energy to keep warm. This means higher emissions and energy bills. Common culprits include:

  • Solid Walls
  • Single Glazing Windows
  • Outdated Boilers

If you find your home is draughty, cold, and struggles to reach a comfortable temperature, you could be using more energy than is needed and producing more CO₂ whilst doing so.

What Can Be Done?  

The good news is that there are a number of simple and affordable methods that can be put in place to reduce your home’s carbon footprint, often going hand in hand with saving money:

  • Insulation: Loft insulation and draught proofing your home can make a notable difference.
  • Heating controls: Smart thermostats and radiator valves help you control your heat and only warm the rooms you need.
  • Energy Efficient appliances: When replacing old appliances, look for those with the Energy Star rating.
  • Renewable energy: Switching to renewable energy sources like a heat pump and solar panels can reduce your carbon footprint.

We’re Here to Help

At Energy Advice Helpline, we’re here to support you with free, friendly advice. Whether its applying for government grants to improve your home’s energy efficiency, understanding your energy bills, or just want to know where to start, our dedicated team is here to guide you every step of the way.

You don’t need to be a climate expert or spend loads of money to have an impact. Every small step- like turning the heating down a little bit or switching off your appliances at the wall- adds up to a healthier home and planet!

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