Top tips 'for a green and happy life'

The country's 10:10 scheme will kick off in just a few months and Britons may therefore wish to start their preparation for cutting their carbon emissions, along with their electricity and gas bills.

Organised by the Age of Stupid, the initiative aims to get individuals and organisations to sign up and pledge to reduce their energy use by ten per cent during 2010.

And people do not have to be stupid to realise the impact that reducing energy use and carbon emissions could have on climate change and the future of the planet.

Ten tips for lower emissions

As part of 10:10, the Guardian newspaper has offered consumers ten tips which could help them to reduce their energy use, along with allowing them to achieve cheap gas and electricity bills.

And the group asserts that there is plenty more people can do than simply swapping to more energy efficient lightbulbs.

Indeed, it is recommended that Britons ensure they shop for locally-produced food and even consider becoming vegan for three days a week, as less energy is used in the farming of vegetables than in meat production.

Purchasing an energy monitor is also recommended so that people can see where cuts to their utility use could be made, while using electronic gadgets and the car less, along with buying second hand clothes are also recommended.

Reducing gas bills to go green

Perhaps one of the greatest lifestyle changes homeowners could make in their commitment to 10:10 is to reduce gas consumption.

The Guardian states: "If you use gas in your home, it's likely to be the most significant part of your carbon footprint. You need to use less of it, which means doing some or all of the following: [...] getting a new boiler, heating fewer rooms, reducing the temperature on your thermostat, [...] sticking aluminium foil or reflective panels behind radiators."

And the newspaper claims that this can save money through lower gas quotes in the long-term.

Indeed, by following some or all of these simple steps, Britons may find they are well on their way to achieving their 10:10 commitment before the year has even started.