New data analysis reveals that the carbon emissions resulting from six key consumer spending categories in the UK fell by almost a third during the national lockdown, with year-on-year emissions remaining much lower than in 2019. Analysis of Lloyds Banking Group’s consumer spending data by the Carbon Trust across six key spending categories shows estimated carbon emissions fell by 4.3 million tonnes of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO₂e) over the height of the national lockdown. This was a drop of 27% compared to the same period in 2019 for the areas reviewed. The connection between how we spend our money and the impact this has on carbon emissions ‘is clear’, according to the Carbon Trust.
The analysis focused on the carbon equivalent of six key spending categories that demonstrate changing consumer behaviour: food and drink, fuel, commuting, airlines, electrical stores and clothing stores. By the 16 August, overall carbon emissions across the six categories were still 14% lower than they were by the same time last year, equivalent to 4.79 million tonnes less CO₂e: nearing the yearly carbon emissions of the entire city of Nottingham. The unprecedented disruption to travel and commuting was the key factor behind the fall in carbon emissions, according to the analysis, with many businesses required to close and people spending significantly less.
The data comes as new research by YouGov suggests that following the national lockdown, UK consumers want to play an ‘active role’ in staging their own mini-green recovery at home. Over a third of UK adults (34%) are more likely to take action to reduce their carbon footprint following the lockdown being eased, most commonly by changing the way they travel and shop.
Source: Circular Online
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