What can I do?

Green living tips from CAT (Centre of Alternative Technology, UK).

To view or download our free information sheets, containing advice and contacts, please click the subject area you are interested in.

Or click here for an alphabetical list of all our information sheets

Energy Efficiency Energy-saving measures are the easiest and cheapest way to cut your carbon emissions. Click here for lots of practical advice, including insulating and draught-proofing your home, using efficient heating systems, how to avoid air conditioning, and what to think about if you're planning a conservatory.	Renewable Energy If you've maximised the energy efficiency of your home, you might now be considering small-scale renewable energy generation. This section gives advice on the options, and how to make sure that you'll get a worthwhile installation. For example, would a wind turbine be suitable for your home? Would solar water heating be compatible with your plumbing? Could you heat your home with wood fuel or a heat pump? Click through for answers to these questions and more.
Transport The way we get around can make up a bigger chunk of our personal carbon emissions than energy use in the home - especially if we take a few air flights. See this section for advice on greener car use, public transport, and low-impact holidays, and alternative fuels (such as those made from plants or from renewable sources).	Low-impact Living Perhaps surprisingly, the biggest single part of the average person's footprint comes from food. Click here for more information, including: which is best - local, organic, or fair trade? and what about growing your own veg? Look also in this section for advice on just what your personal footprint is and how you can find yours out, and for help with reducing the impact of your lifestyle and living in a more ethical way.
Eco-Building If you're doing more extensive renovation work, or building from scratch, then you have an opportunity to make a really low-impact building. Click here for advice on choosing environmentally benign materials and techniques, and on avoiding damaging ones.	Water and Sanitation Water is a precious resource, and the way we use and treat it has a huge impact on our environment. See this section for information about reducing your water use by harvesting rainwater or 'grey' water, alternatives to conventional sewage treatment (such as composting toilets), and advice on water treatment and pumping.