Carbon offsettingCarbon-saving tips

Eco-friendly products

Reduce your carbon footprint by using low energy light bulbs

Which? tests hundreds of products each year, including eco-friendly products. You could reduce your carbon footprint – and save money – by following these simple tips.

• Buy low energy light bulbs – see our energy saving light bulbs review for current Best Buys.
• Invest in a Best Buy energy-efficient condensing boiler.
• Insulate your loft – see our guide to choosing the right insulation.
• Cut down the water you use in the garden by installing an irrigation kit.
• Consider buying a car with lower emissions, such as a Toyota Prius.
• Visit Which? Switch for a green electricity tariff.

Energy-saving tips

Hang washing out to dry to save energy

• Don’t leave electrical appliances on standby, turn them off completely. A computer monitor left on standby can cost you £30 a year.
• Dry clothes outside whenever possible, rather than using a tumble dryer.
• Only boil the amount of water you need. Boiling a full kettle costs about the same as running a fridge for 13 hours.
• Turning down your thermostat could save you 10% on your heating bill. When you go on holiday, just leave your heating ticking over.
• Recycle paper, cans, plastic and kitchen waste. When you replace your TV, phone or computer, local community groups will appreciate your old one. The Which? recycling guide has more information.
• For optimum energy efficiency, keep your fridge and freezer at least three-quarters full.
• Use a low temperature programme, such as 30 degrees, when you use your washing machine – modern washing powders are just as effective at lower temperatures.
• Turn off lights when you leave a room.
• For more energy-saving tips see the Which? guide to using less energy and Energy Saving Trust’s website.

Investment alternatives

As well as actions you can take around the home, there are many options available to consumers wishing to invest in environmental technologies and other eco-friendly investments. Ethical Investment Research Services (EIRIS) is a not-for-profit organisation that looks at and rates companies' social, environmental and ethical policies and practices.

If you're interested in ethical investments, it's best to speak to a suitably qualified Independent Financial Adviser (IFA). See our guide to choosing a financial adviser for more information. EIRIS can also help you find one, as can IFA service Unbiased.co.uk.

When Which? member Douglas Buchanan found domestic wind turbines and photovoltaic cells impractical for his home, he decided to invest in environmental technologies instead.

Douglas told us: 'In the absence of domestic options, I concluded that it was best to invest in wind farms situated in good locations. Accordingly I have invested in three wind farm co-operatives (Westmill, Great Glen and Kilbraur). I have also invested in the Triodos Bank Renewables Fund. I calculate that these investments will deliver more than enough renewable energy to offset my family's emissions.'