Even small changes can make a difference

CLIMATE change will be bad for our health in ways many of us don’t think about. The UK is reliant on imports to provide affordable healthy diets and that isn’t going to change. Half of that fruit and veg comes from climate vulnerable countries.

The outcome will be worse diets, poorer health and a greater burden on the health service.

On the other hand, there are changes we can make that are good for us and also help tackle climate change.

Many journeys in our towns and cities are short enough that they can be done by walking or cycling, giving us valuable exercise and improving our mental health.

Electric bikes are reducing our reliance on fossil fuels far more than electric vehicles and make using a bike an option for more people and longer journeys. For those able to do it, a switch to walking and cycling for short journeys will also reduce the pollution that blights so many lives.

More journeys by public transport is yet another way to reduce harmful pollutants and carbon emissions well. We need an integrated, reliable and affordable public transport network.

Doctors say that many of us would see a health benefit from eating less red meat which would free up land to grow the fruit and vegetables that’ll become harder to import. There would also be space for renewable energy that will help reduce our emissions.

Making small changes can have a big impact, but our transition away from fossil fuels will fail unless we have a government prepared to show leadership. Vote wisely, the next generation depends on it.

Jackie Green, via email