Drive Less & Avoid Flying
We all need – and want – to go places but transport is the largest source of carbon emissions in the UK, according to 2018 government figures.
And that doesn’t include aviation: flying from London to New York and back generates roughly the same emissions as heating an average European home for a year
Luckily, walking and cycling are really good for you, and in London we have excellent subsidized public transport.
Here are some suggestions…
Why not take the train?
For longer journeys in the UK and Europe take the train. According to the European Environment Agency, air travel emits 285g of CO2 per passenger per mile compared to just 14g by rail.
Check out Seat61 to plan your journey and buy tickets from Trainline or Rail Europe
Don’t idle
If you’re driving, don’t let the engine idle (keep running when the car’s not moving). It generates pollution and is especially harmful outside schools, but also to be avoided in traffic jams and when picking people up. It’s not only an offense but can damage your engine.
Try ride-sharing
If you feel you have to drive, help cut the number of overall car journeys by offering a friend or neighbour a lift. You can offer a ride on liftshare.com
If you’re commuting, ask your place of work to sign up HERE
Get on your bike…
It might be quicker. More than a third of Islington’s car trips can be walked in under 25 mins or cycled in 8 mins.
…and get free lessons & maintenance
Islington residents of all ages and ability can get free cycling and bike maintenance training with Bikeability. Book HERE or contact Owen Powell on 07793 218168 or 020 7527 7636.
If you don’t have a bike, hire one
Islington has several bike and electric bike hire companies. Try Santander, Lime or Jump
Consider signing the pledge not to fly in 2020 at flightfree.co.uk/take_action
If you do have to fly… consider carbon offsetting.
It’s not an exact science and by no means makes your flight OK, but it’s absolutely worth doing.
The airlines will often suggest a partner, but there are organisations which are more comprehensive. Try Climate Care, Atmosfair or make a donation to a forestry charity such as Worldland Trust, Forests Without Borders or Tree Aid
Learn more
Here are some interesting resources and campaigns for environmentally conscious travellers in Islington.
Living Streets is a charity that campaigns for safer and more enjoyable streets for pedestrians
Islington Clean Air Parents campaign to reduce air pollution from cars, which damages health and in many parts of Islington exceeds legal thresholds
The Aviation Environment Federation campaigns for aviation’s impacts to be brought within sustainable limits
Join Cycle Islington for information and activities and check out the London Cycling Campaign for safety info
