Individuals

Choose cleaner ways to move 

Walking, cycling, public transport and carpooling, purchase and use of electric vehicles, can help people save money, improve health and reduce air pollution while cutting emissions. Cleaner transport options can also help create less congested, safer and more liveable cities. 

Cut energy use and save money 

Improving energy efficiency is one of the fastest and most cost-effective ways individuals can lower household expenses while reducing emissions. Simple actions — such as switching to LEDs, using energy-efficient appliances and air-drying laundry — can help reduce energy bills and ease pressure on energy systems. 

Create a cooler and more comfortable home 

Using reflective roofs, shading and passive cooling strategies can help lower indoor temperatures, improve comfort during extreme heat and reduce reliance on air conditioning. Small changes at home can make living spaces healthier, more resilient and more affordable to cool 

Invest in smarter home upgrades 

Upgrading homes with better insulation and highly efficient heat pumps can help reduce utility bills, improve year-round comfort and lower household emissions. These investments can also increase resilience to rising temperatures and energy price volatility. 

Choose more sustainable meals 

Choosing plant-rich and more sustainable meals can support healthier lifestyles while reducing emissions, land use and pressure on water resources. These choices can also help build more resilient and efficient food systems. 

Buy better, use longer 

Repairing, reusing and choosing durable products can help people save money, reduce waste and support more sustainable consumption. Keeping products in use for longer also helps reduce pressure on natural resources and lowers emissions linked to production and shipping. 

Help protect the nature around you 

Forests, wetlands and healthy ecosystems help clean the air, protect water supplies, reduce flood risks and store carbon. Supporting conservation and sustainable practices can help protect communities while preserving nature for future generations. 

Use your voice to shape the future 

Individuals can help drive wider change through the choices they make, the businesses they support and the conversations they have. Public engagement can help accelerate climate solutions, influence policy and build momentum for a safer and more resilient future. 

 

Want to learn more? 

Read UNEP’s latest climate reports