Living low carbon

A low-emissions Ōtepoti Dunedin means better, more efficient local infrastructure, improved public health, and a more liveable city. In some areas, the DCC has direct responsibilities, and we are improving waste services and transport infrastructure to unlock low emissions choices for everyone.

But when it comes to tackling climate change, everyone has a unique role to play. Becoming a Zero Carbon city will take all of us!

There are lots of things we can do as individuals, whānau, businesses and communities. Everyone’s contribution will look a little bit different, and every little bit counts! But which actions make the biggest difference? We’ve put together a list based on the latest research.

Travel

For most of us, changing how we get around is the single most impactful step we can take to tackle climate change.

The highest impact emissions-reducing actions include:

Living car-free
Shifting to an electric vehicle
Taking fewer flights
Shifting to public and active transport
Downsizing to a smaller vehicle

Home

The way we heat and power our homes also has a big impact on our carbon footprint.

High-impact ways to cut emissions include:

Producing and/or using renewable energy (e.g. solar)
Shifting to heat pumps or renewable-based heating
Renovating or refurbishing to improve efficiency and reduce emissions
Swapping out cooking equipment for lower emissions options (e.g. gas to electric)

Food

Shifting to a more plant-based diet is the highest impact way to reduce emissions associated with growing, processing, transporting, distributing and preparing food.

Other steps you can take include:

Choosing seasonal, locally produced and organic foods
Choosing food with less packaging
Choosing lower carbon meats
Producing your own food
Minimising food waste

Ready to take action?

Want to learn more or take the next step? Explore resources to find practical ways to lower emissions at home, at work, and in your community.

Travel choices

Getting around Dunedin

Sustainable travel events

A schedule of events in Dunedin that support alternative travel modes.

Sustainable travel events

School travel

Programmes aimed to improve road safety, encourage active travel modes and develop healthy habits that last a lifetime.

Eco-design advisor service

A free eco-design consultation to help you create a warm, dry and energy-efficient home, whether you’re building new or want to improve your existing home.

Eco-design advisor service

Recycling and rubbish

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