Go car free: Most of us know that there are a large number of lovely BBOWT nature reserves right here in Oxfordshire. Piling into the car and heading to the countryside for the day is one of my favourite activities. Next time, however, I think I’ll try going car-free . . .

Many of the things that we do every day – such as driving cars – contribute to climate change. If you are as keen as I am to see that our local environment is preserved for future generations, then why not do your bit by taking care of our climate and going car-free? And World Car Free Day on September 22 is a great time to start.

Political animal: World leaders are gathering in Copenhagen, Denmark, this December for a UN conference on climate change. The discussions they have will largely determine national strategies for combating climate change. But it’s not all about big decisions – as one famous advert suggests, every little helps.

Show politicians that you’re serious about climate change by making small changes to your lifestyle that reduce the carbon you produce, like going car-free for a day.

As a voter and consumer you have more power than you think. Besides, going car-free is liberating; you won't have to worry about parking, or stopping for expensive petrol.

Being green is easy: Ready to leave your carbon footprint behind you and go car-free? Hoof it to your nearest nature reserve and enjoy the beauty around you – beauty that you are helping to protect.

There are plenty of BBOWT nature reserves in Oxfordshire that are accessible by public transport. CS Lewis in Risinghurst, Iffley Meadows, by Donnington Bridge, and Abbey Fishponds, in Abingdon, to name just a few. As autumn approaches, look out for golden leaves, weird fungi and scurrying mammals stocking up for the winter.

Or simply enjoy the peace and quiet of your local nature reserve.

For the true eco-warriors among you, why not take it a step further? Have a car-free day once a week for the rest of the year!

You’ll see how easy it is to reduce your carbon footprint and it can also be enjoyable.

Think of those relaxing walks in the woods you could take, or the longer treks around the Oxfordshire countryside you could plan . . .

Hitting home: Climate change is a subject that is especially close to home for many Oxfordshire residents. The rate of flooding has increased over the last ten years with devastating effects on people and wildlife. So it seems more important now than ever before, to take climate change seriously and do our bit to help the planet.

To find out more about the nature reserves on your doorstep, or longer walks you can enjoy in the Oxfordshire countryside, visit www.bbowt.org.uk or call 01865 775476.