Why does this matter?

It might not seem that there’s an instant link between wellbeing and net zero but our environment has a huge part to play in our general wellbeing. Recent studies show that, particularly for younger people, anxiety about climate change and the depletion of the world’s resources negatively impacts their mental health and wellbeing. 

In this series of blogs, our Net Zero coordinator, Frances, shares some of her thoughts about how we can all become a little more environmentally friendly.

Step Up To Net Zero

Hi there, my name is Frances, you may have seen my staff profile on Healing for the Heart’s social media recently. I am a Step up to Net Zero Coordinator. I am working with Healing for the Heart to develop and implement environmentally sustainable practices within the organisation.

Did you know that Glasgow City Council has committed to becoming Net Zero by 2030?

The UK government aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 68% by 2030 and to become Net Zero by 2050. Net Zero basically means reducing our greenhouse gas emissions as much as possible and them removing the rest that is still emitted into the atmosphere.

This is in line with the Paris Agreement which is a legally binding international treaty on climate change. The goal of the Paris Agreement is to limit global warming to 1.5°C (max 2°C) as this will prevent the worst effects of climate change. As of 2022 the Earth’s temperature has already risen by 1.1°C compared to pre-industrial levels.

How can we achieve Net Zero?

Moving from fossil fuels to renewable energy, diverting waste from landfill, reducing energy usage, and stopping deforestation are just a few of the many ways we can reduce our global emissions. Then there are things we can do to remove carbon from the atmosphere. For example, planting trees, mangroves or kelp forests as well as new technologies that are being developed to suck carbon out the atmosphere and store it permanently underground.

As a Step Up to Net Zero Coordinator at Healing for Heart my role is to create net zero capacity, build on existing circular practices and reduce waste. Over the next few weeks I will be sharing more about my work and Healing for the Heart’s circular practices.

I will also provide you with tips, and ideas, for changes you can make in your own home or business.