THERE is huge interest in climate change at the moment, but not in taking the small steps necessary to make a difference. I am extremely passionate about the environment, especially being a parent. I really want a decent sustainable world for my kids and their kids to grow up in, that may sound dramatic, but it's true.

In terms of Ireland's CO 2emissions, the major penalty bearer here is fuel. Electricity is the biggest culprit . . . because of the burning of fuel and the inefficient means by which it's distributed . . . yet so many people are installing electrical heaters, why?

We really have to become aware of the amount of heating and type of fuel we use. To reduce demand, simply tackle behavioural changes. How often do you have your heating on? At what temperature? Even if you just wear a light jumper, you can save an enormous amount of CO 2 emissions.

You can install thermostatic valves on radiators which will maintain the heat at a chosen temperature. When the room reaches that, the radiator turns off. Most houses only have one thermostat in the hallway that's too high at 250 for example. Since it's probably the coldest area in the house, other rooms will be too hot. Something as straightforward as thick curtains in winter will save money.

The second thing is to increase insulation; even 10 inches in your attic space will save a fortune. Another important factor is air infiltration. Use draught protectors behind doors, make sure windows aren't old and leaky.

About a third of all energy is used in space heating. Another 25% goes on water heating; combined, that's over half at around 58%.

Lighting amounts to another 5% (tackle this with energy-ef"cient bulbs). Household appliances make up for another 29%. So make sure to look at the energy rating when buying a new fridge. Crucially, turn everything off before you go to bed.

By changing your behaviour around all of these issues, you could reduce your CO 2emissions by 40% quite easily. So it is nonsense that being green has to be costly and obscene. Conversely, if you do have more cash and can apply even more complex measures, you can decrease emissions by up to another 30%. It could make a spectacular difference.

I think, culturally, change is starting to have an impact. You really begin to see it when it hits the consumer world. Some DIY stores are now promoting sustainable energy products.

We are currently involved in an affordable housing scheme for Dublin City Council that is using green materials and solar panels thanks to a grant from Sustainable Energy Ireland. In the apartments, all balconies are south facing so you get great sun all day. There are sliding glass screens that can be shut off in winter but will capture much more heat and light. We are going to use ef"cient condensing gas boilers used in combination with solar thermal panels for heating water . . . this means residents will not get a gas bill as standard, but a 'hot water usage bill' making it much cheaper.

In the future, tackling CO 2head on will mean a real shift towards renewable energy, wind, solar, etc. In the meantime, the changes that should be taking place are so minor as to be galling.

Sean Harrington is one of a number of architects in the upcoming 'Simon Open Door' campaign. On Saturday 28 April, members of the public will be given the opportunity of a one hour consultation with a RIAI architect in return for a 60 donation to Simon Communities of Ireland. To book, visit www. simonopendoor. ie.