That's one of the key takeaway messages in the Chancellor's Spring Statement this week. As the government introduces its Future Homes Standard, requiring that all new-build properties use low-carbon heating and become more energy efficient. Other headlines included the expansion of the Affordable Homes Guarantee Scheme by up to £3 billion. Which will enable housing associations to build an extra 30,000 new homes through the scheme.

Want to do your bit for the environment, but not sure if you have the time or money to make a difference? Well, with a quarter of the UK’s carbon emissions produced by energy in the home, there are some surprisingly simple things you could do that will make a difference.