Climate change
Across the country our family of 15 National Parks have been working hard to help combat climate change.
Some projects are one-offs, like the introduction of an Archimedean Screw to harness hydro power for a remote North York Moors farm. Now the farmer and his family no longer have to rely on an expensive and polluting generator for their electricity.
Others are huge schemes, such as the Moors For The Future project in the Peak District.
Peat is one of the UK's most important carbon stores and the Peak peat bog is being restored to help prevent the release of carbon gases that would otherwise contribute to global warming and climate change.
On a smaller, more practical scale, the Yorkshire Dales National Park's headquarters building offers a blueprint for sustainable office buildings or homes.
It has a ground source heat pump to provide underfloor heating and is extremely well insulated - right down to its hay meadow roof. The folk in Bainbridge allow sheep to graze on their grassy roof but you don't have to try this at home!
From woodfuel to rainwater harvesting and hydro power, we have case studies to inspire you. Click the links to find out more...
Climate change and you
Carbon dioxide (CO2) is one of the main greenhouse gases which causes climate change.
Around 45% of the UK's man-made CO2 emissions come from energy we use every day at home and when we travel, according to the Energy Saving Trust.
By reducing our personal CO2 emissions, we can all play an important part in helping to prevent climate change and get lower energy bills into the bargain.
If you want to generate your own electricity the Energy Saving Trust has more information on:
- Wind turbines
- Wood-fuelled heating
- Hydro electricity
- Ground source heat pumps
- Air source heat pumps
- www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/Generate-your-own-energy
- Advice on energy efficient home insulation, glazing, heating and lighting:
www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/Home-improvements - For biomass boiler systems and information:
www.biomassenergycentre.org.uk - Information on woodland management and woodfuel:
www.highlandbirchwoods.co.uk
www.usewoodfuel.co.uk - Rainwater harvesting systems are detailed here:
www.rainwaterharvesting.co.uk - Measure your carbon footprint here:
www.carbontrust.co.uk - Make your business energy efficient:
www.businesslink.gov.uk/energyefficiency
