Travel safe

Vehicle of choice

Swapping to an electric or hybrid car isn’t an option we can all afford. However, simply swapping one trip a day to public transport, on foot or by bicycle has a discernable impact. “That’s really helping to bring the carbon footprint down,” says Craig.

✓ Tick yes

When air travel resumes, electing to carbon offset your flight has a much bigger impact on the environment (and smaller impact on your wallet) than you’d think. Airlines are audited to make sure they are using those funds correctly, Craig says.

Lobby the powers that be

Electric buses are currently being trialled in Australia – and just one bus in regular service takes 60 cars off the road, says Craig. So write to your local MP and campaign for more electric buses to hit your district. Craig also recommends asking for bike lanes in your suburb to make cycling safer – and see more of us inspired to use pedal power.

Buy local

The less distance our goods have to travel, the lower the carbon footprint. Buy from your local market and ask questions of your butcher and fishmonger about the provenance of what you are purchasing – and how sustainably the trader is run.

Eat seasonally

Buying fresh asparagus in January? There’s next to no chance this was grown in Oz, meaning it likely came via plane. “Tinned vegies made overseas are better than having fresh veg flown,” says Craig.

A meaty substitute

Beef and lamb may be tasty, but they are among our biggest carbon offenders. Craig insists you don’t need to turn vegetarian to make a difference. “Chicken has a much lower carbon footprint,” he says, as do meats such as kangaroo, pork and duck.

Community solution

A composter will cut your food waste and, in turn, help with landfill. But those in apartments may find it hard to keep one going. Check with your local council to locate a communal compost bin.