What Can Individuals Do to Address Climate Change?
Everyone can play a part in tackling climate change. By making small changes at home, at work and in our communities, we can reduce emissions, conserve resources and help build a more sustainable and resilient borough.
Recycle More, Waste Less
Recycling helps conserve natural resources and reduces the amount of waste sent for disposal. Residents can use their recycling collections and Household Recycling Centres to recycle a wide range of materials correctly. Information on recycling services is available from the Council's Recycling pages.
Reduce Food Waste
Food waste contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and wastes valuable resources. Residents can reduce food waste by planning meals, storing food correctly, using leftovers creatively and recycling unavoidable food waste using the Council's food waste collection service. The Council's brown bin and food caddy service helps divert food waste from landfill. Find out more...
Improve Energy Efficiency
Using less energy helps reduce carbon emissions and can lower household bills. Simple actions such as installing LED bulbs, improving insulation, reducing standby power and heating homes efficiently can make a significant difference. The Council also provides energy-saving advice and information on available support schemes. Find out more...
Choose Sustainable Travel
Where possible, walk, cycle, use public transport or share journeys to reduce emissions from transport. Even occasional changes to travel habits can have a positive environmental impact.
Support Nature and Biodiversity
Plant native flowers, shrubs and trees, create wildlife-friendly gardens, reduce pesticide use and support local biodiversity projects. Healthy ecosystems help absorb carbon and make communities more resilient to climate change.
Prepare for Winter Weather
Climate change is increasing the frequency of extreme weather events. Taking steps to stay warm, maintain homes and prepare vehicles for winter conditions can help improve resilience and protect vulnerable residents during cold weather. The Council provides a range of winter weather advice and support. Find out more...
Be Prepared for Severe Weather
Flooding, storms and heatwaves are becoming more common. Residents can improve their preparedness by understanding local risks, following weather warnings and creating a household emergency plan. The Council provides guidance on flooding and extreme weather preparedness. Find out more...
Get Involved in Your Community
Getting involved in local environmental initiatives is a great way to make a positive impact. Whether it's organising a community clean-up, biodiversity project, tree planting event or environmental awareness activity, community action can help create cleaner, greener and more resilient neighbourhoods.
The Council can support litter picks through its Support in Kind programme, which may provide assistance such as equipment, materials or resources for eligible activities. Find out more...
By taking action together, residents can help reduce carbon emissions, reduce waste, protect biodiversity and build a cleaner, greener and more climate-resilient Antrim and Newtownabbey.