Incorporating sustainability into your business practices means you can help to make a difference. Plus, doing this holds many benefits you might not have considered. Here are some actionable strategies you could consider if you’re a business owner wanting to invest in and embrace sustainability initiatives.

Assessing Sustainability Goals and Priorities

Setting goals is an important first step. Establish what you want to achieve both in the short term and long term. You could take inspiration from the United Nation’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), which cover everything from air quality to water pollution. It’s important to take a genuine interest in the sustainability movement and keep up to date with the issue. Understanding why it’s so important to take these actions is key.

Take a look at your existing business practices and assess whether certain areas require more focus to be more environmentally friendly. After extensive research, you might want to look into small business loans to fund initiatives that require upfront investment.

Implementing Sustainable Practices Across Operations

Look across the entire supply chain to establish where improvements can be made. Do you feel comfortable offering full supply chain transparency to the public? If not, why is that? And what changes can you make?

Often, supply chains are so vast that it’s tricky to track whether there is exploitation in an environmental or social sense. The more visibility you have over your supply chain, the more this risk is reduced. Consider whether you should switch suppliers or switch up your operations for the better. Consider aspects like energy efficiency or waste reduction, as well as internal company schemes and processes you can implement. You might introduce a cycle-to-work scheme, for instance.

Engaging Stakeholders and Building Partnerships

Who you engage with is an extension of your image. Make sure you only liaise with businesses that align with your values, otherwise, customers will lose respect for you and may struggle to trust your true intentions.

Where possible, collaborate with other stakeholders that will help you in your mission to embrace more sustainable practices. You could work with small businesses, charities and local organisations that reflect your values, for instance.

Measuring Impact and Reporting Progress

The way you report on your progress will be a big part of holding yourself accountable. After forming goals, you can use more specific performance indicators (KPIs) and metrics to assess your performance. You can then share your results with stakeholders and the public to instil trust and authenticity.

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From investor demands to customer expectations, there’s growing pressure to demonstrate a commitment to sustainable and responsible practices. But how can you effectively translate those intentions into action?

This is where digitalisation comes in. By embracing digital tools and technologies, your ESG-focused business can unlock a range of benefits that not only enhance their environmental and social impact but also strengthen its overall operations.

What is ESG?

ESG stands for Environmental, Social, and Governance.

It’s a framework that assesses a company’s commitment to operating in a way that protects its people and the planet. This includes factors like reducing their environmental impact, fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace, and maintaining strong ethical practices. While ESG offers societal and environmental benefits, it can also help you attract investors, retain talent, and build a strong reputation.

Here are the top five advantages of digitalisation for businesses prioritising ESG:

Enhanced data management and reporting

Accurate and transparent data is the cornerstone of effective ESG reporting. Digitalisation allows businesses to gather, analyse and store ESG data efficiently.

Cloud-based platforms can centralise information on everything from your energy consumption and waste generation to employee diversity and community engagement. This not only simplifies reporting but also improves data quality and consistency.

Operational efficiency and cost reduction

Digitalisation can significantly improve operational efficiency, leading to a reduced environmental footprint. Smart building technologies can optimise energy usage in offices and factories. Additionally, the UK government’s recent push for tax e-invoicing is another example.

By implementing tax e-invoicing systems, businesses can streamline processes, eliminate paper waste, and potentially benefit from tax deductions. This not only reduces costs but also contributes to environmental benefits.

Improved stakeholder engagement

Digital tools like social media and online reporting platforms can foster greater transparency and communication with stakeholders, whether they’re investors, employees or clients and customers.

You can share ESG initiatives as well as progress on sustainability goals, allowing stakeholders to stay informed and potentially participate in ESG efforts.

Risk management and resilience

Digitalisation empowers you to proactively identify and manage ESG-related risks.

Supply chain management software can help track ethical sourcing practices and identify potential environmental violations within supplier networks. Additionally, data analytics tools can be used to assess climate-change risks and implement preventative measures, building business resilience in the face of environmental challenges.

5. Compliance with evolving regulations

The regulatory landscape surrounding ESG is constantly evolving. Digitalisation helps you to stay up to date with the latest regulations and reporting requirements. Subscription-based services can provide real-time updates on regulatory changes, ensuring companies remain compliant and avoid potential penalties.

Ultimately, the digital revolution offers a transformative opportunity for ESG-focused businesses to achieve real progress, build trust with stakeholders, and ensure long-term success in a sustainable future.

In today’s business environment, prioritising ESG isn’t just a feel-good initiative; it’s a strategic imperative.

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A key industry embracing digital technology in the UK is the energy sector. Innovative digital tools like Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) are helping us to embrace cleaner, more efficient energy as a nation.

With green energy becoming an increasingly important topic, it’s more important than ever to embrace the tools that can help us achieve net zero targets in the future. From offshore wind turbines in Liverpool Bay to hydropower projects in Dinorwig Power Station in North Wales, there are plenty of examples where this is being put into practice.

Here’s what you need to know about the digital technology that can help us drive these projects.

Optimising Operations with AI

AI has been integral to improving data management and forecasting at an industrial scale. In this instance, it can be used to manage smart grids that control the flow of energy in a more intelligent way. Machine learning is key to the way in which smart grids can operate effectively. It can help to detect faults while assisting with energy demand and establishing what is needed to meet this demand.

Outside of this, AI can be used to assist with solar forecasts and systems that help to balance fossil fuel and renewable energy. This can help those in the industry by reducing costs and improving efficiency.

Harnessing the power of IoT

IoT is being embraced across many sectors. In this instance, it can be key for monitoring renewable energy assets and improving data collection.

Technology such as static sensors and cameras with smart technology can allow energy workers to monitor efficiency and safety with accuracy. Data-backed decisions are of utmost importance in this context.

The likes of geothermal energy can be managed remotely as well, which frees up time and resources. This is also key for improving worker safety. IoT has also made it possible to use systems like SCADA (Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition) and performance management systems.

Even everyday technology such as smart meters has made a world of difference to those at home and across the energy sector, allowing consumers to use energy more efficiently. These offer real-time data that dictates how much energy is being used. Similar technology is used at a wider, more advanced scale at an industry level.

Data-driven decision-making with digital accounting

Digital accounting offers yet more opportunities to improve efficiency in the energy sector. It reduces the need for staff to perform manual tasks in the background that might otherwise be time-consuming.

Accounting software and cloud computing means that information can be accessed anywhere and by multiple users, which encourages a more collaborative approach. Real-time analysis also means that those who work in the energy sector can make informed investment decisions.

Empowering customers with smart grids

Smart grids are an important element of providing energy to consumers. They offer two-way communication between energy providers and those using the energy at the other end. This means that energy can be issued in a more efficient way based on consumer patterns in the home or elsewhere.

For example, more energy will be used during the daytime between certain periods. As touched on previously, this system can be powered by AI to improve efficiency.

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The major reason for CO₂ pollution in the UK (and around the globe) is the burning of fossil fuels for energy. This means that renewable energy projects are a big part of the government’s goal to reduce emissions. A record-breaking 95 clean energy projects were awarded government funding in 2023 and will produce enough power to run the equivalent of two million homes.

Furthermore, last October the UK government passed The Energy Act 2023, a landmark legislation aimed at making the nation more energy-independent in the long term. The Act will unlock £100 billion of private investment in sustainable energy infrastructure to help improve the scalability of the industry and speed up growth.

It’s also intended to make eco-friendly energy systems more affordable for UK businesses and homeowners. Currently, the cost of the latest renewable energy heating systems – like air source heat pumps – is putting off eco-minded consumers. A shortage of qualified engineers is also delaying change.

Learn more about the major UK renewable energy projects underway and how these investments will benefit the nation in the short term and years to come.

UK renewable energy initiatives

Wind farms

As an island nation surrounded by sea, the UK is well-placed to make use of wind as a renewable energy source. Building more wind farms is therefore one of the major renewable energy initiatives.

Offshore wind farms such as the Hornsea One project are the primary focus as infrastructure issues and public protests are delaying the development of onshore projects.

Hornsea One, which comprises 174 turbines, generates enough energy to power more than 1 million homes. Its sister, Hornsea Two, surpassed this in 2022 to claim the title world’s largest wind farm.

Biomass stations

Considered renewable as they can be rapidly replaced unlike fossil fuels, biomass fuels are another way that the UK is moving away from traditional energy sources. Biofuels release CO₂ when burned, but this amount can be easily offset by new growth which is in line with the net zero target.

The most significant biomass station is in the North East of England. It creates green energy by processing wood waste from American timber mills and is projected to save over one million tonnes of carbon dioxide year on year.

Solar parks

Seeing solar panels atop residential and commercial buildings is increasingly common as people and businesses do their bit to reduce their personal carbon footprint. To provide solar power on a greater scale, the UK is creating solar parks like Cleve Hill in Kent.

Solar parks are considered to be the most nature-friendly way of generating power for the national grid and are therefore classed as Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIP) by the government.

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If you’re considering investing in BP, it’s important to know this company’s role and how it fits in with the bigger picture when it comes to the global energy market.

BP: A powerhouse

BP was formerly known as British Petroleum. This oil and fuel company is headquartered in London and is one of the most prominent Big Oil companies in the energy sector. It forms one of the major oil companies in terms of revenue alongside ExxonMobil, Shell and TotalEnergies.

Understanding BP’s strategy

Traditional fossil fuels continue to play a significant role in BP’s portfolio. However, the company has been actively diversifying into renewable energy sources. Through investments in wind, solar, and biofuels, BP aims to move towards a more sustainable future while simultaneously navigating the challenges posed by climate change and shifting consumer preferences.

Potential benefits of BP investment

BP presents several opportunities for prospective investors. Trading stocks through platforms like Tradu allows for convenient access to BP shares, offering potential for capital appreciation and dividends.

In addition, BP’s strategic initiatives in the renewable energy space mean the company is well positioned for future growth, tapping into the increasing demand for clean energy solutions. There’s a drive from governments across the world to address climate change, with the UK Government setting a target to be carbon net zero by 2050. This means oil companies like BP are diversifying in order to move in line with government initiatives to bring about change and if you’re investing in BP now, you’re moving with these changes.

Risks to consider

As with any form of trading, there are risks to be aware of. One of the major issues is volatility in oil prices. These are constantly shifting, meaning that as an investor, you must follow the fluctuations carefully. These aren’t stocks to sit on.

Also, geopolitical tensions can be an issue. The energy sector has been a major headline in recent years and governments have factored in tensions around this into their policies. Plus, regulatory uncertainties can significantly impact BP’s financial performance and stock valuation.

The transition towards renewable energy can also signal capital investments and operational challenges, which may put a strain on BP’s profitability in the short term. Add to this other considerations such as environmental disasters, legal liabilities, and market disruptions and it’s worth considering your position carefully before you make a move.

Resources for informed decisions

To make informed investment decisions, you’ll need to use various resources in order to tap into comprehensive research and analysis. Financial news platforms can provide valuable insights into market trends, company performance, and industry developments. Additionally, accessing BP’s official website and investor relations portal will give you detailed information on its financial reports, sustainability initiatives, and corporate governance practices.

It’s also worth considering speaking to financial advisors or consulting investment professionals that can provide personalised guidance tailored to individual investment goals and risk profiles.

This could be a good move for you if you want to tap into the energy sector. However, as with any investment opportunity, research and understanding how BP functions is key.

The post How to Invest in BP and profit from the energy sector appeared first on theenergyst.com.

But why are new builds so energy-efficient? Here we explore four key attributes of these modern homes that contribute to minimising their environmental impact.

Improved layouts

While most favour an open-plan layout for the modern aesthetic, the design is actually an effective method for reducing energy usage. This is because it’s much easier to keep the temperature consistent in a room free from obstructions.

As a result, new build homes often feature an open-plan ground floor as opposed to numerous closed-off rooms. In addition to this, open-plan designs also allow the installation of more efficient heating systems rather than your standard single radiator in each room.

Advanced technology

It’s all well and good ensuring the property is equipped to retain heat and reduce energy bills but this is made redundant if appliances in the home continue to waste energy unnecessarily. Fortunately, new builds are fitted with state-of-the-art appliances and technology.

Whether it’s low-energy lightbulbs throughout the home or restricted-flow taps, every fixture and fitting is specially designed to minimise energy usage. You’ll even find different types of heating systems like energy-efficient boilers or air-source heat pumps.

Some selected homes come with solar panels, which are able to produce hot water. Not only does this save on energy bills but also reduces the carbon footprint of the property.

Further insulation

With these increasingly cold winters and sudden heatwaves in the summer, it’s important for homes to be able to maintain a comfortable temperature. Not just for our benefit but for the sake of saving energy.

New housing typically includes upgrades in insulation like foam underneath flooring, sustainable materials in cavity walls, and deeper loft insulation. A combination of these ensures energy usage is minimised in the home as much as possible.

To help regulate the temperature of the home, new builds are fitted with double-glazing windows and trickle vents. The latter is also beneficial for removing excess moisture buildup in the air that can lead to damp in the property.

Use of eco-friendly materials

New builds have the advantage of being built in the modern day when sustainable materials are known and readily available. As an example, timber has proven to be much more energy-efficient for retaining heat compared to traditional masonry – a common feature of older properties.

Even bamboo has emerged as an eco-friendly alternative. While it’s already been used in certain cultures for centuries, it is now being utilised more in new build properties thanks to its light weight, flexibility, and strength.

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Are you noticing more electric cars on the roads? You are not imagining things, as more and more motorists are starting to make the switch. This allows people to significantly reduce their environmental impact as well as make long-term savings. There are also a growing number of charging points in the UK, and you can easily get them installed in your house. Electric cars can be expensive to buy new, so should you be looking in the used car market?

The post Should You Buy a Used EV? appeared first on theenergyst.com.

As well as remaining transparent among stakeholders, employees and clients, businesses should also proactively seek out sustainable practices and solutions while adhering to policies and regulatory procedures.

Understanding net zero regulatory frameworks

Although some key policies are in the hands of the government, such as banning the sale of new diesel and petrol cars, others, such as promoting sustainable aviation fuel, increasing the creation of woodlands and providing incentives to invest in clean energy, are not legally binding.

However, the Energy Act is a parliamentary bill that provides a legal framework to businesses in the energy sector that regulates the market, sets out environmental guidance and ensures protection for energy customers.

Some businesses might think about consulting ESG experts to assist with the energy transition to ensure compliance and cost effectiveness.

Assessing and reporting carbon footprint

When businesses report their carbon footprint, it’s crucial to ensure they remain transparent in their results. With the importance of ESG increasing, companies are under pressure to be sustainable and environmentally friendly.

It’s imperative that companies strive to engage with their clients and stakeholders and increase performance through trust, transparency and accountability. By setting out goals relating to carbon footprint and sustainability, business culture is likely to remain collaborative and forward-thinking, fostering increased trust among key partners and clients.

Failing to disclose results could lead to mistrust, reduced performance and a damaged reputation, particularly when there is increasing competition to abide by sustainability guidelines.

Incorporating circular economy principles

This includes using recycled materials, refurbishing and repairing to eliminate waste and environmental pollution. Businesses can address environmental concerns and create in-house solutions that abide by circular economy principles. They can also work in partnership with other businesses as part of a wider solution to help reduce waste on a larger scale.

To work with this model, companies should create new ways of operating, design new, sustainable products and packaging and consider temporary constructions to avoid unnecessary waste.

Engagement and training

A businesses’ goals are worthless if employees, customers and investors are unaware of or unwilling to contribute to their sustainability solutions. Employee training is vital to create a culture of collaboration and companies should give their staff opportunities to contribute to ideas and strategies.

There should be efficient training programmes and ongoing reporting to show how the business is meeting their targets and continual engagement with employees including feedback and open communication.

Finally, adopting net zero solutions and strategies can even pave the way for job opportunities within the ESG sector, driving performance and growth within sectors.

The post How businesses can navigate net zero compliance appeared first on theenergyst.com.

The downside for those looking to invest in this kind of vehicle is the depreciation that so often comes along with them. So, what is it that makes electric vehicles depreciate more quickly than traditional internal combustion ones?

Rapid development

This is a relatively immature technology. We can therefore be fairly sure that models released in the years to come will ship with improvements that leave the current crop far behind. We might see improvements in battery life and efficiency, and new energy-saving features which optimise the power draw.

If you’re informed about the latest trends in the industry, then you might be able to avoid much of the depreciation here. Bear in mind that super-capacious batteries of the future might not produce a proportionate reduction in price. Once motorists stop being anxious about range, they might be happy to settle for batteries of a certain size.

Battery degradation concerns

Another worry that’s dampening demand in the used car market is the possibility that a battery that has been on the road for several years might not be able to hold its charge as efficiently. While it is possible to replace a car’s battery, the procedure is often expensive.

To help with this, manufacturers and sellers might seek to reassure potential buyers of the condition of the battery through the use of warranties and other assurances. It’s worth also noting that, as the battery electric vehicle becomes more popular, we might see battery replacements happening more frequently – and this will help to drive down the costs associated with them.

Maintenance records and certification

The importance of records and certification goes beyond the longevity of the vehicle’s battery. If a detailed record of the vehicle’s maintenance history is available, then the value of the vehicle is that much likelier to hold up. If you’re looking for a used BMW, for example, you might look for certified pre-owner programs, and comprehensive service records.

Government incentives and tax credits

In many cases, the government can step in with a financial incentive to offset the anticipated costs of depreciation. This has been the approach of the UK government’s approach to road tax, which is based on emissions. There are also plug-in grants available in certain regions. You don’t need to apply for these; they are already factored into the purchase price by the seller.

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So, what are the advantages of buying a new build home in the UK?

Modern living

Developers design new build homes for modern families. This means including the layouts, technologies and amenities that people expect today, but didn’t even exist until recently. Many new build developments come with additional facilities outside of the homes themselves, such as green spaces, playgrounds and communal gyms.

Greater durability

While mistakes can always happen during constructions, good developers produce new builds that are more durable than even the most robust old homes. This is because they use the latest building techniques and today’s higher-quality materials, which enable them to ensure that new builds are robust and require less maintenance work.

Higher energy efficiency

As they’re built today, new build homes are typically more energy efficient than older models. According to the Home builders Federation, people who live in new build homes save around £2600 a year on energy costs. Modern developers use everything we’ve learned over the past few decades about sustainability to design homes that are far more friendly than anything the Victorians could’ve come up with.

Greater accessibility

Many first-time buyers consider getting on the property ladder to be hopeless. But new build homes offer a more accessible option. Government schemes such as first homes, help-to-buy or shared ownership that help buyers get their hands on a set of keys are only available for new build homes.

Customisability

It’s possible to buy a new build home ‘off-plan’ – which means you’re able to choose your own fixtures and finishes. This lets you put your own touch on your new home, helping you to feel more comfortable in it and saving you the hassle of doing work on it after you move in.

The bottom line

Buying a new build home can offer significant advantages, from offering you a more modern lifestyle to helping you cut down energy bills. Regardless of whether you’re already a homeowner or looking to finally get on the property ladder, consider whether these benefits would help you get the most from your home.

The post What are the advantages of buying a new build home in the UK? appeared first on theenergyst.com.

The biggest contributions towards environmental pledges must come from the largest corporations and institutions but opportunities for small businesses to make a difference for themselves, their customers and the planet are still significant.

Our 5.5 million small businesses and self-employed workers have an important role to play in helping the nation to reach its targets and build towards a more sustainable future.

Whats does Net Zero mean?

Net Zero is the strategy set out by the government to achieve net-zero carbon emissions in the UK by 2050. Decarbonisation is the aim of the game, with global greenhouse gas emissions threatening the very existence of life as we know it.

The government has laid out plans to tackle carbon emissions in key sectors, including energy, housing, transport and finance. Each sector has a role to play, as does each organisation.

Countries around the world have signed up to a net-zero coalition, including many of the biggest polluters like China, the USA and the EU. It’s truly a global effort which is what is needed to protect the planet from climate change.

How this helps small businesses?

Net Zero will hopefully bring about positive changes for the planet but small businesses are likely to benefit themselves while they’re contributing to the efforts. Here’s why:

Cost savings through energy efficiency

Limiting carbon emissions relies mostly on reducing energy consumption, reusing and recycling waste, and saving water and other finite resources. All of these can cut costs for businesses and help to increase profitability.

Measures like energy-efficient lighting, smart heating, modern insulation and equipment upgrades can all reduce the amount of energy needed for operations and thus reduce emissions and costs at the same time.

For example, retail businesses can benefit from lower supply chain prices and energy bills – a boon when operational expenses like shop insurance aren’t going anywhere any time soon – and these savings can also potentially be passed onto customers.

Access to funding and incentives

The government continues to release incentives to encourage the uptake of sustainable practices around society. For small businesses, green business grants have been available to help to upgrade business premises, equipment and vehicles in line with government targets.

It’s certainly worth business owners keeping an eye out for new incentives and funding because they reduce the cost of transitioning to more sustainable approaches, which may also save money down the line.

Enhanced brand reputation and customer loyalty

Aligning with sustainable ambitions is a great way for SMEs to attract and retain customers. Consumers are more often going out of their way to find eco-friendly products and sustainably focused suppliers, which is an increasingly lucrative market.

Public image is so important in the digital age and supporting green initiatives is a sensible approach for any business. How can your small business contribute to Net Zero and benefit in return?

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To help remedy this, the UK government set a target for the construction of new homes. 300,000 of them were to be built annually, right up to the middle of this decade. This was the result of a pledge made in the 2019 Tory manifesto, which promised ‘at least’ a million more homes over the current Parliament.

These plans were scuppered, in part, by a backbench revolt in 2022. As a result, local councils have the ability to take into account the density of the existing housing stock, as well as the character of the area. In other words, local authorities won’t be forced to build where they’d really rather not.

This reflects wider Tory discontent at the targets, which were described by onetime Prime Minister Liz Truss as ‘Stalinist’. In reality, the housing numbers have fallen some way short of the target, peaking at just under 250,000 in 2020.

Environmental Targets for New Builds

New builds in the UK are bound by another set of government targets: the environmental ones. The UK government has pledged to reach Net Zero by 2050, and to that end it has insisted on a range of new environmental targets for new builds.

By 2025, new homes will have to comply with something called the Future Homes Standard. This aims to decarbonise the incoming housing stock through efficient heating, waste management and hot water. Triple-glazed windows, heat pumps, and substantial materials will all play a role in shaping the house of the future.

According to the Home Builders Federation, the supply of new housing will likely plummet to less than 120,000 in the years to come, thanks to ‘an increasingly anti-development and anti-business policy environment’. This analysis is contested by the Department for Levelling Up.

The continuation of the current housing policy will hinge upon the outcome of the next election, which is overwhelmingly likely to arrive before 2025. What changes are proposed by an incoming Labour government, or a defending Conservative one, remains to be seen.

While the OBR has projected that the UK will avoid recession this year, the pressure on homeowners will still be considerable. For those without the means to get onto the housing ladder, the situation is unlikely to improve in the near future.

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Lower Centre of Gravity

Electric vehicles typically have a lower centre of gravity than traditional cars due to the location of the battery pack, which is usually placed on the bottom of the car. This creates a strong, stable base, reducing the risk of EVs flipping or rolling, even when travelling at speed or when involved in a collision. The lack of heavy parts such as a fuel tank in the upper section of the car can also contribute to an EVs lower centre of gravity even further, essentially making the car less ‘top heavy’ compared to a traditional car.

Having a lower centre of gravity not only reduces the likelihood of your electric car from tipping over during an accident but can also improve road safety by lowering the risk of accidents thanks to improved handling.

Safety in Collisions

Many EVs score highly in crash tests thanks to improved safety features and lower flammability. If you’re involved in a car accident in an electric vehicle, tests have also shown that the chances of injury to drivers and passengers is actually lower than when travelling in cars with combustion engines, i.e. vehicles that run on petrol or diesel suggesting that electric vehicles are safer to drive and ride in than traditional options.

No combustion engine

Since electric vehicles don’t have a fuel system, they don’t pose the same fire risks that traditional cars do. In a car that has a petrol or diesel tank, fuel can leak following a collision and this can possibly ignite, causing a vehicle fire, which could be a hazard to life. In an electric vehicle, on the other hand, the car’s battery pack has built-in safety features to prevent fires in the case of an accident.

Conclusion

Not only are electric vehicles better for the environment but they also have a wide range of safety benefits compared to cars with combustion engines. Whilst EVs do have their own unique safety concerns, for example, the lack of engine noise making them more hazardous to pedestrians, there are measures in place to address these, such as noise emitter devices. Overall, EVs may present a safer way to travel and help to reduce accidents on the road.

The post How EVs are becoming safer than combustion engine cars appeared first on theenergyst.com.

Potentially more sustainable

One of the draws of EVs is their lack of tailpipe emissions, which privileges the owner with an exemption from road tax. Though there’s still a debate surrounding whether these cars are as sustainable as they seem when you consider the manufacturing emissions, efforts to mitigate this are underway.

Enhanced practicality & more features

Another benefit of the rising electric car demand is the innovative boost it has given the car market in general. We have seen the integration of more electronic features, such as complex PCB display software which provides more functional and technologically advanced display systems than previous car models.

This innovation looks set to continue, with NASA currently testing a new type of battery that could replace the lithium-ion variety and be more affordable and efficient, the solid-state battery.

Better for shorter journeys

There are times when electric vehicles are more practical than fuel cars. For example, short trips around town don’t require much range. Conversely, fuel-powered cars are not very efficient for short trips because stop-start driving and constant bends tend to be less efficient. Conversely with an electric car, you can charge between uses and take more short journeys without having to worry about this problem.

Cost effective to run

One of the main attractions of an electric vehicle is the reduction of costs although they do cost more to purchase. But everyday usage costs a lot less, with the cost of an electric charge cheaper than the cost of fuel. Charging your EV from home is the most cost effective option via your mains or a home charging point installation. Those in rental accommodation, with a driveway will benefit from the governments scheme to contribute towards the installation costs.

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While it is incumbent on industries and larger businesses to address their own contributions to the crisis, this doesn’t preclude the individual from seeking their own alternatives. Besides, energy has become a costly thing in the UK – and improving efficiency in the home can help bring costs down as well as alleviate the burden on the climate. What are some of the most effective ways to do this?

Roof Insulation

Insulation is an extremely effective route to passive improvement of a home’s energy efficiency. Newer home builds account for insulation from the foundation up, with the use of polystyrene blocks or cavity walls to improve the base heat retention co-efficient of the build. Wall insulation, whether cladding or cavity wall insulation, has the most impact on energy efficiency.

However, this doesn’t make it the most accessible form of insulation – where roof insulation can be much more cost-effective for the average household. Roof insulation aims to tackle the effects of heat convection as opposed to heat radiation, by trapping heat attempting to escape upwards through the attic. Installing this insulation is cheaper, quicker and simpler – and can even be done DIY using Milwaukee hand tools and a delivery of fibreglass insulation material. The result is an instant improvement to heat retention with a less immediate impact on savings.

Heating System Upgrades

Energy efficiency measures are generally designed to reduce your reliance on your central heating system, giving you the ability to comfortably heat your home with less energy consumption. As well as passive measures to reduce heat lost from the home, you can also directly address the efficiency of your heating system itself.

Indeed, the UK government announced a subsidy programme to increase uptake of efficient alternative heating systems, including air-source heat pumps and biomass boilers. While the initial cost is high, the shift away from burning natural gas makes a significant difference in terms of both carbon footprint and energy cost.

Solar Panels

Energy efficiency conversations typically revolve around the management of heat and heating systems, owing to the significant portion of energy usage devoted to it each month. However, our reliance on the national grid for electricity is often overlooked. Even though electricity is relatively cheap, it can still cause significant costs, and still has a carbon footprint of its own.

An increasingly-available alternative solution is to install solar panels. Again, there is an upfront cost to solar panel installation that might turn off a number of households, but if you settled in your home for the long-term the investment can be well worth it. Not only are you free of electricity tariffs and carbon costs, but you can also sell surplus electricity back into the grid.

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