Vigilant individuals/households concerned with the serious impact of environmental degradation and climate change are striving to make their own lives more sustainable. Efforts range from simply making more sustainable consumption/waste management choices e.g. buying ethically-sound, local-produced or organic products, to totally renovating and reconfiguring their homes and lifestyles to become more sustainable. These choices have been made much easier with the many incentives that the government has provided to ensure a smooth transition to sustainable development.
Although many of these incentives are still in the making, some have already stimulated sustainable lifestyles. The cycle-to-work scheme in the U.K encourages sustainable commuting through a tax-break scheme which provides discounts on the prices of bicycles and its accessories. Additionally, reforms made in relation to planning permission for renewable energy attachments, e.g. windmills and solar panels have made it easier for individuals to incorporate sustainability into their homes. Those who choose to renovate their homes to incorporate sustainable design and construction directives will also be rewarded with higher price evaluations and increased demand in the future. The UK Government is also currently working on a tax break system to help promote water-efficient and energy efficient household equipment.
To get some advice on living sustainable lifestyles and find out about the government-backed incentives on offer, please follow the appropriate links below: