Take it off!

In 2005, Japan launched a brilliant campaign called 'Cool Biz', which encourages workers to dress down in summer to reduce air-conditioning use and greenhouse gas emissions. The dress code advises people to ditch their ties and jackets, and wear pants made from materials that breathe and absorb moisture.

It seems this idea is catching on. This year, the United Nations encouraged its New York staff to swap their business suits for lighter clothing. As well as save a ridiculous amount of money, turning the thermostats up 5 degrees to 77 Farenheit during warmer months will also benefit the environment. About 4400 million pounds of steam – equivalent to several hundred tons of carbon dioxide – would be saved by reducing air conditioning at the UN's landmark Manhattan building.