Small changes in our everyday behaviour can make big differences to London’s environment. Below are a few ways in which Londoners can improve air quality, enhance their health, save money and help tackle climate change.

At home

• Turn down the central heating when possible.
• Install home energy efficiency measures.
• Avoid installing polluting wood-burning stoves.
• Avoid burning garden or domestic waste, especially in urban areas.

On the move

• Use public transport rather than the car wherever possible.
• Walk or cycle for short journeys, instead of using the car.
• Use eco-driving techniques to reduce your fuel use.
• Ensure your car is not wasting fuel, by regularly checking oil and tyre levels.
• If you are buying a car:
  • Avoid older diesel cars, as they tend to be more polluting than petrol models.
  • Buy the most efficient and cleanest vehicle that you can, look for the car’s Euro standard – this is the air pollution standard that the vehicle was constructed to meet, ranging from Euro 1 (worst) to Euro 5 (best).
  • Consider purchasing an electric car and benefit from road tax and congestion charge exemption, cheaper fuel costs and government subsidies.

At work

• Buy or hire the cleanest vehicles available.
• Develop travel plans to encourage employees to use public transport, walk or cycle.
• If employees have to drive as part of their jobs, organise eco-driving training for them.
• Install workplace energy efficiency measures.
• Freight operators are encouraged to sign up to TfL's Freight Operator Recognition Scheme.