What are EcoTeams?

Global Action Plan's EcoTeams programme helps households to reduce their impact on the environment and to save money. EcoTeams are groups of 6-8 people who meet once a month for approximately 5 months. At each meeting, EcoTeam participants decide together on the environmental actions that they are able and willing to do at home, and share experiences of the actions they have already taken.

MPs on the Environment Audit Committee took the unusual step of visiting an EcoTeam household and taking evidence from participants. The Committee report said:
"We were impressed by the EcoTeams programme which is successfully promoting behavioural change at household level. We recommend the expansion of this programme."

What is involved?
EcoTeam participants meet to discuss choices for shopping, energy, transport and water – and you can try the ideas that appeal to you.  You also monitor how much rubbish and recycling you generate and your domestic use of energy. This shows how small changes can make a big difference to living more sustainably and reducing your bills!

How much time will it take?
About 2 hours a month, including the meetings and measurements.

Does it work?
Yes! Past teams have achieved great environmental savings. Through EcoTeams households have:

• reduced their waste by an average of 20.0%
• increased their recycling as a proportion of total waste by an average of 5.1%
• reduced their electricity consumption by an average of 7.0%
• reduced their gas/ heating energy consumption by an average of 20.8% (seasonally adjusted figures)
• reduced their direct CO₂ emissions by an average of 16.6%
• reduced their water use by an average of 14.9%

Why does it work?
By working in a group, members support each other and share ideas and experiences.  Participants gradually introduce small changes which become good habits.