Top tips for a Sustainable Summer

The Energy and Sustainability Team have pulled together some simple tips to help you stay cool, save energy and cut waste this summer - whether you're in the office or dreaming of your next holiday.

The Energy and Sustainability Team have pulled together some simple tips to help you stay cool, save energy and cut waste this summer - whether you're in the office or dreaming of your next holiday.

Keeping cool in the office and at home

In the office, start with the basics before turning to air conditioning:

• open windows early in the morning or later in the day to let cooler air in and close them during the hottest hours to keep heat out
• blinds are your best friend - especially on south-facing windows, which get the most sun. Closing them at the right time can make a big difference to how warm the space feels
• if you need to, use a fan to stay comfortable and keep air conditioning as a last option

Air conditioning must work much harder when windows are open, whether in the office, at home or even in the car. Even a small change can make a big difference - setting the temperature just 1 degrees Celsius lower can increase energy use by up to 10%, so choosing a sensible setting helps keep you cool while reducing wasted energy.

At home, before reaching for fans or air conditioning, use simple methods to keep your home comfortable:

• open windows early in the morning or later in the evening to let cooler air in and keep them closed during the hottest parts of the day to trap that cool air inside
• blinds and curtains make a big difference - especially on sunny windows. Keeping them closed during peak sunlight can stop rooms from overheating in the first place
• fans are a great lower-energy option and much cheaper to run than air conditioning. If you do use AC, keep it at a moderate temperature - lower settings can quickly increase energy use

Tip: Dress for the weather - lighter clothing indoors can reduce the need for extra cooling and layers allow you to adjust your comfort easily.

Thinking about wasted energy

Most wasted energy comes from everyday habits. Equipment left on overnight, or on standby, still uses electricity, even if it looks ‘off’. Turning things off properly at the end of the day helps reduce this.

Using natural daylight instead of lights is an easy win - and much nicer to work in.

Appliances like kettles and microwaves can still draw power when plugged in, so unplugging them when not in use helps cut ‘phantom’ energy use. Some council building now have Zip Taps installed, providing instant near-boiling and chilled water, so make use of these instead of repeatedly boiling kettles to save energy.

Think about hidden energy waste too! Even when digital devices are not in use, they can still draw power. Switching appliances off properly helps avoid wasted energy. Appliances can also add unwanted heat - try to avoid using ovens and heavy cooking appliances during the hottest times. Switch to lighter meals or use these appliances in the evening instead.

Summer is the perfect time to cut back on electricity use in the office and at home.

Quick fact: Standby power can make up around 10% of office energy use. And remember… the fridge door isn’t a viewing window!

Using water wisely

Water use increases in summer, but small changes make a big difference. Refillable bottles are a great alternative to single-use plastics and help cut waste. Remember reusable water bottles aren't just eco-friendly, they are a great fashion accessory to stand out in a crowd!

Only run taps when you need them - water cools almost instantly, so letting it run wastes both water and energy. If you notice a dripping tap, report it straight away as it can waste a surprising amount over time.

At home, taking shorter showers or turning off the tap when brushing your teeth can make a noticeable difference over time.

In the garden, watering plants early in the morning or later in the evening helps reduce evaporation and keeps plants healthier. Using a watering can instead of a hose also helps limit how much water is used.

Cutting down waste

Summer often means more drinks, takeaways, and packaging - but it doesn’t have to mean more waste. Planning meals ahead helps reduce food waste - particularly important in warmer weather when food spoils more quickly.

Choosing local, seasonal foods not only supports local producers, but also reduces the environmental impact of transport and storage.

Choosing reusable bottles, lunch containers, and cutlery can really reduce single-use plastics. Recycling properly is just as important - make sure items go in the right bins so they can actually be reused.

When it comes to saving energy, making the most of natural light means you can avoid switching lights on during the day. Air drying clothes at home outside instead of using a tumble dryer saves energy and keeps your home cooler too.

Travelling smart - the greener way

How you travel can make a big difference to your summer impact. Where possible, consider lower-carbon options like trains or buses instead of flying - especially for UK trips or shorter journeys.

If flying is needed, choosing direct flights helps reduce emissions compared to multiple connections. Packing light can also help, as heavier luggage increases fuel use (and saves you dragging it around too).

Using energy wisely on holiday

Holiday accommodation often includes everything you need - but it's still worth being mindful. Turning off lights, chargers, and appliances when going out its an easy way to reduce unnecessary energy use.

Even small actions add up when many people are doing the same things across hotels, resorts, and holiday parks.

Quick fact: Hotel energy use can be significantly reduced when guests switch off lights and AC when leaving rooms.

Using water carefully on holiday

In many holiday destinations - especially abroad - water can be a limited resource, particularly during hot summer months.

Taking shorter showers and reusing towels can help reduce water waste. Being mindful of water use is even more important in areas that experience drought or high visitor numbers.

Reusable water bottles are just as useful on holiday - keeping you hydrated while cutting down on plastic waste.

Published June 05, 2026