Some have dominated news stories, like the wildfires that swept through Los Angeles. Others were close to home, like the extreme rainfall and flooding we experienced in Wigan and the north west in January.
Extreme weather events are becoming more common and more intense due to the effects of climate change.
Without reducing the emissions we produce, this trend will continue.
A recent report from the Carbon Brief shows some glimmers of hope in the UK. In 2024, the UK saw a significant drop in greenhouse gas emissions, reaching their lowest level since 1872.
This is positive news for our planet, because greenhouse gases like carbon dioxide trap heat and contribute to a warming world.
But why were emissions down?
- Coal use fell to its lowest level since 1666, the year of the Great Fire of London. One of the biggest reasons for the drop in emissions was the closure of the UK’s last coal-fired power station in Nottinghamshire. Coal is considered one of the dirtiest fossil fuels because it produces more pollution and greenhouse gases compared to other fossil fuels like natural gas or oil.
- The UK’s electricity was the cleanest ever in 2024. Renewables reached a record high of 45% of electricity in 2024. Wind power, in particular, became a major source of clean energy, helping to cut down on the need for fossil fuels.
- The rise of electric vehicles (EVs) helped cut emissions from transportation. In 2024, the number of EVs on UK roads increased by nearly 40%, reducing the demand for petrol and diesel and fewer emissions from cars. This shift is also helping to improve air quality and public health.
Despite the progress, experts warn that the UK needs to cut emissions even faster to meet its climate targets for 2035 and 2050. While the country has made great strides in reducing coal use and increasing renewables, there is still more to do and there are plenty of ways Wigan residents can get involved.
At home, focus on your heating - loft insulation, double glazing, and draught-proofing can help reduce your energy consumption and save money, so these are great places to start. The Feel the Benefit campaign offers personalised advice to residents of Greater Manchester. In Wigan, you can telephone 01942 489 209 or email EnergyAdvice@wigan.gov.uk.
You could also be eligible for a grant of up to £7,500 to replace your boiler with a low carbon alternative, such as a heat pump through the Boiler Upgrade Scheme.
When getting around, consider low carbon options like walking, cycling, wheeling for local journeys if you can, or taking public transport.
Lastly, everyday choices around how we consume resources can make a big difference. Eat more fruits and vegetables and less red meat and dairy; reduce food waste; and buy second-hand and pre-loved items where you can.
Remember, small actions add up!