The health, social and economic crisis caused by coronavirus is monopolising the headlines, but the climate emergency is still one of the great challenges facing us and we have to keep combating it and adapting to it. This means that small actions and more sustainable everyday habits that make it possible to transition towards another model that is healthier and more equitable for everyone are really important.
Now that we have to spend so much time at home, we need to reflect on the environmental, social and economic consequences of our lifestyles and then act in an aware and responsible way.
In the current Climate Emergency, citizen action is vital and every day counts. We therefore encourage you to make the best of the fight against the coronavirus in order to achieve a city that is better for everyone, a city that is more resilient and prepared for the big challenges of this century.
People first. Now more than ever.
- Make sure that vulnerable people around you are okay during the confinement period, and when it is over, continue to look out for them during other difficult moments, such as any future heatwaves. Info: "Radars" Project.
- Take advantage of these days at home to take a look at your electricity and gas bills, and get advice on how to save energy through small actions. Here is some advice.
Energy Advice Points (PAE) continue to provide services online and over the phone, to ensure citizens’ energy rights during the confinement caused by the coronavirus outbreak. If your water, electricity or gas supply has been cut off or you want to find out how to reduce your bills, you can contact the PAE’s services. Info: PAES.
- Assess the possibility of generating power at home (Get information, apply for grants, install renewable energy sources or reflectors on your roof, etc.). Info: Guide to self-consumption
Starting at home now we are home for such a long time
- Get information on possible steps you can start taking now to renovate and insulate your home. Info: Renovation grants. On the Barcelona Energy website, there are various resources and materials where you can find out how renovating can reduce your energy consumption.
- Sign up for green energy now that you are at home more. Opting for renewable energies is a big step towards being less energy dependent and more sustainable. Take positive action towards a fairer and more sustainable future. Info: Barcelona Energia.
- If you have access, the tools and the time, use confinement to make a green roof on your terrace. Info: Living roof terraces and green roofs.
Transforming communal areas. For a sustainable and healthier city.
- Take care of plants more than ever and enjoy the animals that they attract. During these days with less noise and pollution, we can rediscover the fauna that our streets attract. Info: Naturalising green spaces.
- Why not try and make your own vegetable garden at home, following the appropriate safety measures. Info: Agropolis.
- Now we’re spending more time at home, we may find we consume more water. Be aware of this and try to save this precious resource as much as possible. Info: Measures to save water in the home.
Climate economy. Transitioning towards a more resilent economic model.
- During confinement, buy what you need and don't stockpile food. Organise your meals and avoid wasting food. Consuming responsibly is still the most sustainable option. Info: OMIC (Municipal Consumer Information Office).
- Think how you can reduce the waste you generate, and if it is more difficult to buy things without packaging, choose large packets that are easy to recycle and continue to bring your own shopping baskets and trolleys, as you have been doing. Info: Zero Waste Strategy.
- Repairing, reusing and recycling are still the three Rs that you can carry out at home, especially repairing, as you almost certainly have more time on your hands at the moment. And if you are willing and able, learn how to make compost at home with organic waste, which you probably have more of now. Info: Waste generation and prevention.
- Buy local, ecological products and eat less meat. Although we are cooking more meals at home than before, you should choose local products and not eat too many meat products. Info: Food Sovereignty Promotion Strategy.
Collective construction. We can do it if we do it together
- Find out about climate change and the consequences it will have for the city. On the Barcelona for Climate website, there are studies about the most important challenges the city will have to face because of climate change and the effects that this will have on city infrastructures and people's lives.
- Find out about the citizen projects aimed at combating climate change, and when you can, get involved in one or promote new ones. Info: Citizen projects.
- There are many people speaking about the climate crisis, and now we can watch and listen to them during our confinement. Some suggestions: