Mitigation

Mitigation refers to actions that reduce our contribution to the causes of climate change. This means reducing our emissions of greenhouse gases, such as carbon dioxide (CO₂), through energy efficiency and using alternative forms of transport and energy.

It is only by reducing our greenhouse gas emissions that we can minimise human-induced (anthropogenic) climate change. Many of the measures to help reduce emissions may also have other benefits such as saving money and encouraging a more sustainable society.

Mitigation and adaptation are closely related and ideally should be considered together rather than separately. This is not always possible, but it is important that any adaptation actions take account of mitigation, and any mitigation takes account of the need for adaptation.

UKCIP doesn’t help individuals or organisations to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, but there is plenty of relevant information available. See the Related links for more details.