Research has revealed carbon emissions plunged 19% during the pandemic in the South East - and that it could fuel permanent changes to shopping and travel habits.

Spearheading the drop was the work from home order - and restrictions of domestic and international travel.

According to the research, compiled by the Lloyds Banking Group in partnership with the Carbon Trust, emissions from commuting fell 71% while fuel emissions fell by 23% on pre-pandemic levels.

International travel restrictions saw carbon from airlines dip by an unprecedented 76%.

And as the latest phases of the roadmap out of lockdown sweeps in - with non-essential retail able to open as of Monday - the survey finds enormous public support to ensure the environment is top priority in the post pandemic recovery, according to 67% of those quizzed.

Michelle Blayney, group ambassador for the South East at Lloyds Banking Group, said: “What’s clear from our research is that many people see the environment as a top priority for the country and will continue to look for ways to cut their carbon footprint after restrictions lift."

Myles McCarthy, director at the Carbon Trust, added: “It is encouraging to see that the environment remains top of mind for two-thirds of people in post pandemic recovery. Lockdown has disrupted our lives in many aspects, challenging people from turning aspirations into action, while encouraging more sustainable habits like homeworking and local shopping.

“As lockdown eases, and in the run-up to COP26, it is time for consumers, citizens, businesses and governments to come together and build the enabling environment that will help turn climate ambitions into long-term impact.”

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