Seven proven ways to help the planet in 2025

In 2025, there are many effective ways to contribute to the health of our planet. Climate change is a significant challenge, but individual actions can collectively lead to substantial improvements. In 2024, scientists highlighted the urgent need to reduce global emissions, emphasizing that while large-scale changes like increasing renewable energy are crucial, personal choices also play a vital role. It can be daunting to know where to begin, so we have compiled a list of impactful actions you can take to lead a more sustainable lifestyle this year. One of the most significant changes you can make is to adopt a plant-based diet. By 2033, it is estimated that there will be nearly 38 billion animals on our planet, and as they live their lives, they release potent greenhouse gases such as methane and nitrous oxide, which are far more effective at warming the planet than carbon dioxide. The scientific community largely agrees that one of the most effective ways to combat climate change is to reduce meat consumption. Research from the UK indicates that vegans produce only 25% of the carbon emissions compared to the most meat-heavy eaters. In 2022, BBC journalists Martha Henriques and Zaria Gorvett tested this theory by tracking the carbon emissions of their meals over a week. They discovered that the vegan diet consistently resulted in lower emissions, although the vegetarian diet also performed well on certain days. They were surprised to find that food waste and cooking methods significantly influenced their overall emissions. Therefore, embracing a plant-based diet is a powerful step toward a more sustainable future. Another effective way to reduce your carbon footprint is to choose trains over flights. Transportation is a major contributor to climate change, accounting for nearly a third of total emissions. While systemic changes in infrastructure are essential, individual actions can also make a significant impact. If you frequently fly, it likely constitutes a large portion of your carbon footprint, making it one of the best areas to target for reduction. Trains typically have a lower carbon impact per kilometer traveled. Additionally, reducing flights often encourages travel closer to home, further decreasing emissions. One writer, Matilda Welin, replaced a flight from London to Sweden with a train journey this year. Although it took longer and was more expensive, she described it as an unforgettable experience, allowing her to appreciate the world at a more human pace. She now feels inspired to undertake shorter long-distance bike rides instead of relying on cars or trains. If you must drive, consider using a more fuel-efficient vehicle or an electric car, which has a lower environmental impact compared to traditional fossil-fuel-powered cars. Walking or biking for short trips can also significantly reduce emissions. Another important step is to buy fewer clothes. The fashion industry is a major contributor to global warming, responsible for a staggering amount of waste. According to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, a truckload of clothes is burned or thrown away every second. To make your wardrobe more sustainable, focus on purchasing fewer new items, especially fast fashion. Instead, consider renting clothes, upcycling your existing wardrobe, or shopping for second-hand items at thrift stores or online platforms like Vinted, Depop, or eBay. Currently, second-hand clothing accounts for only a small percentage of the market, but it is growing rapidly and is expected to become a significant part of the fashion industry in the next decade. Washing clothes less frequently can also help reduce energy consumption. When it comes to the end of a garment's life, think about donating, selling, or passing them on to friends instead of tossing them in the trash. Items that end up in landfills contribute to pollution and waste. Our love for pets is another area where we can make more sustainable choices. Research indicates that keeping pets can have a significant environmental impact. For instance, pet cats can generate over three tonnes of CO2 throughout their lives. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce our pets' carbon paw print. One option is to switch to more sustainable protein sources for their food. For example, insect-based pet food is gaining popularity as it can be produced using food waste and has a lower environmental impact. Additionally, using recycled dog waste bags instead of traditional plastic bags can help minimize plastic pollution. Keeping our homes warm during winter is another challenge in the quest for sustainability. Many households still rely on fossil fuels for heating, which contributes to climate change. Scientists are exploring alternative heating methods that do not depend on gas. One promising solution is the use of heat pumps, which can significantly reduce emissions. These systems are becoming more popular and can help save energy. While the initial installation costs for heat pumps can be high, they are expected to decrease over time. For those still using gas boilers, simple improvements can enhance efficiency and lower energy bills. Lastly, consider the impact of your financial choices on the environment. Many banks invest in projects that may not align with sustainable practices. If you are concerned about your bank's policies, consider moving your money to a credit union or a bank that prioritizes green initiatives. Your pension is another powerful tool for promoting sustainability, as pension funds are significant investors in global markets. It is essential to inquire about your pension provider's investment policies and sustainability options. Reducing single-use plastic is another crucial step in helping the planet. Plastic has infiltrated every aspect of our lives, and its production is expected to increase dramatically. To combat this, we can take steps to minimize our plastic consumption. For instance, bringing reusable bags when shopping and opting for loose vegetables instead of pre-packaged ones can significantly reduce plastic waste. Additionally, consider using beeswax wraps instead of plastic wrap for food storage. By making these small changes in our daily lives, we can collectively contribute to a healthier planet.