Areas of Action - 8 Things We Can Start Doing Right Now
We are at an important moment. The impacts of human activity are no longer distant warnings — they’re already being felt. Scientists are clear that the choices we make now will shape the future of our climate. The latest report from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change described the situation as a “code red for humanity.”
Heatwaves, wildfires, floods and storms are becoming more frequent and intense in many parts of the world. Some changes are already underway and will take time to reverse. With world leaders meeting at COP26, it’s understandable to feel uncertain or even overwhelmed.
Climate change can bring up a range of emotions. But there is also reason for optimism.
There are practical, meaningful actions we can take — individually and together — that make a real difference. LCWO is here to support our community in West Oxford and beyond to take positive action today.
1. Take Collective Action
Real change happens when we raise our voices together. Be ambitious. Ask politicians and businesses to act now — not later.
- Join and support local groups like LCWO
- Take part in letter-writing campaigns (including our upcoming COP26 campaign)
- Lobby local and national representatives — you can find your MP via TheyWorkForYou
Collective pressure works!
2. Food
Food was one of the first areas of action in our 2019 ‘5 things we can all start doing right now’ campaign (now updated to cover 8 areas), launched in response to the IPCC report in autumn 2018. What we eat is one of the most powerful ways we can make a difference.
Food production accounts for around a quarter of global emissions, with animal products a major contributor. Small changes to our diets can have a big impact.
LCWO supports West Oxford residents in choosing more sustainable, locally sourced food and reducing meat and dairy consumption, in line with guidance from the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.
Take action:
- Eat less meat and dairy
- Choose seasonal, local produce
- Reduce food waste
- Consider climate-friendly options for pets
We also bring people together through practical, community-led projects.
These have included:
- Producing West Oxford Apple Juice using surplus donated apples
- Cookery classes at West Oxford Community Primary School
- Our annual Beet the Waste festival at Tap Social
- The Jam Jar Bank at Hogacre
- Campaigning to keep supermarkets on track
- Sharing seasonal recipes and tips
Together, these projects show how climate action can be practical, creative and community-driven.
Small changes add up — join us and be part of it.
3. Transport
Transport was the second on our “5 Things We Can All Start Doing Right Now” to beat the climate crisis.
LCWO works to promote the use of low carbon means of transport, keep local residents updated on transport planning and air quality, and play an active role in Oxfordshire’s Coalition for Healthy Streets and Active Travel.
Our transport lead is long-time volunteer and coordinating committee member Neville Scivener.
- Walk, cycle or use public transport
- Avoid flying where possible
Get your bike fixed up at our next Repair Café and check out what the Coalition for Healthy Streets and Active Travel is working on. Join a car club like Co-Wheels. Going further afield? seat61.com helps you get all over the world by train!
4. Money
Your money has power. Use it for good.
- Switch to banks and pensions that don’t fund fossil fuels
- Move savings and investments towards climate solutions
Click here for more information and to watch our guide to greening your finances. Explore campaigns like Make My Money Matter. Consider local investment opportunities with Low Carbon Hub and Ethex.
If you switch providers, tell them why — it sends a powerful message!
5. Homes
Make your home as energy efficient as possible.
- Switch to a green energy tariff
- Get a home energy assessment. Heating and powering our homes is the biggest single source of emissions in Oxford. Retrofit with our home energy assessments, carbon-busting workshops and Cosy Homes Oxfordshire.
- Think before you buy - do you really need that new thing? Repair broken items at a Repair Cafe; pass on unwanted items and find new treasures for free at our Bring & Takes; if you really need something you don’t have, could you borrow it from Share Oxford’s Library of Things?
6. Stuff
Buy less. Repair more. Share often.
- Fix broken items at Repair Cafés
- Pass on unwanted goods at Bring & Takes or charity shops
- Borrow from friends or Share Oxford
- Refill where possible and avoid plastic packaging
Small shifts in consumption reduce emissions and save money.
Click here to see our work and further information on reducing waste.
7. Wildlife
Protect and restore the local nature area!
- Plant trees
- Mow less and grow insect-friendly plants
- Create hedgehog holes in fences
- Help care for local green spaces
Explore the West Oxford Tree Trail. Join the West Oxford Naturehood WhatsApp group. Visit Kingfisher Corner and Hogacre Common Eco-Park — you might even spot our local otters.
Our everyday choices also affect global biodiversity. Shopping thoughtfully makes a difference.
8. Feelings
Climate change is emotional — and that’s normal.
When was the last time you talked about how you feel about it? Naming our emotions helps us process them and move towards action. Chances are, others feel the same way.
- Talk to a friend
- Join a climate café or workshop
- Explore the work of the Climate Psychology Alliance
- Discover “Active Hope” through a free online course
Talking about climate change is not separate from action — it’s part of it.