This survey dataset analyses the ‘carbon capability’ of a representative sample of the UK population (n = 2001). The focus is on attitudes and behaviours, as well as norms and structural factors which enable and constrain individuals’ ability to lead low-carbon lifestyles. The sample is representative of age, gender, region, education and ethnicity. Participants responded to questions spanning the main components of household-level carbon footprints: energy use, transportation, food and diet, and shopping habits. The survey was designed to enable the calculation of individual-level carbon footprints. Questions on the role of influence and citizenship with respect to climate change are also included.