This year, the council’s annual Sustainable September campaign sets out to help people understand what they can do to improve the energy efficiency of their homes, reduce carbon emissions and lower their energy bills.
The impacts of Earth’s changing climate have never been more apparent. Temperature records are being broken around the world year-on-year, with prolonged heatwaves contributing to droughts and wildfires, while periods of intense rainfall devastate vulnerable communities with flooding.
Kingston is not immune, with the UK experiencing the driest spring in 100 years. According to the Wildlife Trusts, many plants and trees are showing signs of going into “survival mode”. This is because this is one of the UK’s hottest summers on record, according to the Met Office.
Around half the climate harming emissions generated in the borough come from the fossil fuels used to heat and power Kingston’s homes and buildings, the majority of which were built before energy efficiency standards in building regulations. Nor were they designed with emerging climate extremes - and overheated or very cold homes are potentially harmful to health.
Cllr Ian Manders, Portfolio Holder for Climate Action, Biodiversity and Planning, said:
"There is much people can do to improve their homes and contribute to a greener future for everyone. They may even be able to save money on their energy bills.
"Simple fixes like draught-proofing and having the boiler serviced regularly can make a small but useful difference. Larger changes like improving insulation and replacing old, inefficient boilers with new combi boilers make a good difference. If the house is suitable, there are subsidies for installing a heat pump - this makes a substantial difference to emissions.
"Taking action is a win for the planet and people’s bank balances. With the recent cost of living crisis, the more money that people can save on their bills while keeping their homes at a healthy temperature and damp free, the better.
"By exploring the options available now, people can be better prepared for winter when the temperature drops and heating bills increase."
As well as a range of helpful support and advice available on the council’s website and social media channels, there will also be a number of green-minded events and activities for people to take part in.
Full details can be found on the council’s website.