Most of us are doing our bit to help the planet: switching off unused appliances, recycling bottles, or using energy-saving light bulbs. And while these everyday actions do make a difference, when it comes to seriously tackling climate change, a few bigger lifestyle changes can have an even greater impact.

Research published by Seth Wynes and Kimberly A. Nicholas in Environmental Research Letters (2017) identified four high-impact actions that dramatically reduce carbon footprints. Their analysis covered 148 scenarios from 39 sources, focusing on developed nations like Australia, Canada, the United States, and countries in the European Union.

To avoid climate catastrophe, we need to cut emissions down to about 2 tonnes of CO₂ per person per year by 2050. (Right now, the EU average alone sits around 6.7 tonnes per person.)

It's clear we need urgent action—but are we ready to step a little outside our comfort zones to get there?

Here are the four most powerful changes you can make:

1. Have One Fewer Child

Impact: Saves about 58.6 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent per year.

Choosing to have a smaller family is, by far, the most effective way to reduce carbon emissions. Of course, this is a deeply personal decision—and not everyone is at a point in life where it's relevant. But for those thinking about starting or expanding their families, it’s worth considering the environmental legacy we leave behind.

Family is precious, and every child deserves a bright future on a healthy planet. For some, deciding on a smaller family could be a meaningful part of protecting that future.

However, the fact that you are considering this, might mean that your child will be the next 'Greta Thunberg', or an important conscious soul, so maybe we need more of this type!

2. Live Car-Free

Impact: Saves about 2.4 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent per year.

Living without a car may sound daunting, but it’s becoming more achievable with better public transport, cycling infrastructure, and even remote work options.

Could you swap some car journeys for bike rides (with a basket for shopping)? Could you walk the kids to school instead of the last-minute car dash? Small adjustments can make car-free living much more realistic—and even enjoyable.

3. Avoid Flying

Impact: Saves about 1.6 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent per transatlantic flight.

Skipping a flight doesn’t have to mean giving up travel. In fact, it might just make it more exciting!

Consider slower travel options like trains, ferries, or road trips. Turning the journey into part of the adventure can lead to richer travel experiences. And for those based in the UK, why not explore the incredible beaches, forests, and mountains close to home? Beautiful destinations await—without the hefty carbon footprint of air travel.

4. Eat a Plant-Based Diet

Impact: Saves about 0.8 tonnes of CO₂ equivalent per year.

Switching to a plant-based diet is one of the most accessible steps—and it's getting easier every day. With so many delicious plant-based alternatives in supermarkets and restaurants, reducing meat and dairy has never been more convenient.

Plus, growing your own veggies is booming in popularity. It's healthier, pesticide-free, and can even save you money in the long run.

Where Will You Start?

You don’t have to change everything overnight. Maybe start by picking one big-impact action to focus on—alongside the smaller everyday habits you're already practicing.

To keep track of your positive impact, check out The Climate App, which helps you log your actions and see the real difference you're making.

🌍 Ready to help us make The Climate App a reality?