Walking on Sunshine: How to Reduce your Carbon Footprint One Step at a Time

When we think of reducing our carbon footprints, a certain 80s tune comes to mind:

“… But I would walk five hundred miles
And I would walk five hundred more
Just to be the man who walked a thousand
Miles to fall down at your door…”

‘I’m Gonna Be (500 Miles)’ was released in 1988 by The Proclaimers and now has more than 730,000,000 listens on Spotify, but what does this song have to do with reducing your carbon footprint?

Walking (or cycling) to work is listed as one of the top ways to cut carbon emissions in 2024, alongside using less water, switching to renewables, adopting a plant-based diet, insulating your home, turning off lights and going digital.

As well as being cheap and cheerful, walking for 20 minutes per day can reduce your risk of premature death by a third… all by simply lowering your blood pressure and strengthening your muscles!

If you feel like you’ve talked the (eco-friendly) talk, but don’t know how to start walking the (eco-friendly) walk, keep reading to check out our top tips:

Tip 1: Gear Up

There’s nothing like a good ole pair of trainers or comfy walking boots to make you feel like you’re walking on sunshine… and don’t forget your reusable water bottle!

Tip 2: Full Speed Ahead

Studies show that a brisk walk (about 3mph) is healthier than a stroll or a leisurely mooch. You can tell you’re walking briskly if you can still talk, but you’re too out of breath to sing.

Tip 3: Music To Your Ears

Whilst you’re walking, why not blast some of your favourite tunes or get distracted by a fascinating podcast? Not only will this help you find your rhythm, but it can also take your mind off all the calories you’re burning.

Tip 4: Account For Accountability

Download a walking app, like Active 10 from the NHS, or ask a loved one to hold you accountable for your walks if you find yourself struggling with willpower. Guilt works wonders!

Tip 5: Creature of Habit

The single best way to walk more is to integrate it into your daily routine! Think about whether you can walk to the shops, to work or to school? Can you take the stairs instead of using the lift? Can you schedule a regular walk with a friend?

To promote all of the wondrous environmental, economic and medical benefits of walking, Sustainable Mode is supporting Walk to Work Day on 5^th April. By providing simple incentives for employees (plant-based cupcake anyone?), organisations can use this fun event to help cut carbon emissions one step at a time. Walking on sunshine never felt better!