Climate change is undeniably a hot topic these days, and it’s important for us all to do our best to live in a more environmentally friendly way. This might seem like a daunting task, but there are lots of small changes we can make that together will result in a big difference, reducing your carbon footprint and helping the planet. Not sure where to begin? Here are some top tips for how you can do your part.
Shop consciously
What you choose to spend your money on has more impact on the environment than you might realize. For example, the fashion industry is very resource-intensive, but you can make your wardrobe greener by either shopping at secondhand stores or spending a bit more money on clothes that will last for many years. Meanwhile, when shopping for food, try to purchase locally grown, seasonal produce in order to reduce the carbon footprint of your meals. Another top tip is to always bring reusable items such as water bottles, coffee cups, tote bags, and metal straws with you when you go out so that you don’t generate as much waste. You can also reduce the amount of packaging you use by switching to shampoo and conditioner bars instead of bottles and opting for loose fruit and veg rather than those wrapped in plastic. Finally, you can show your support for local environmental charities by choosing to shop in their stores or to donate money when you see a collection tin.
Reduce energy usage
Cutting down the amount of gas and electricity you use at home is not only good for the environment, but it can also save you money on your utility bills. Some top tips include lowering the thermostat by one degree in winter, switching off your electronics at the wall when you’re not using them, and only boiling the amount of water that you need in the kettle or saucepan. Pick an eco-cycle when you use your washing machine or dishwasher and try to only run these appliances when you have a full load. If they need replacing, be sure to choose an energy-efficient model too. For those who own their own homes, it might also be worth considering investing in insulation so that your property retains more heat or even thinking about getting solar panels.
Save water
Water is a precious resource, so we should take care to conserve it. You can do this by taking showers instead of baths, turning off the tap when brushing your teeth, and keeping a jug of water in the fridge so that you don’t have to run the tap until the water is cold enough for you to drink. Other options include purchasing an aerated showerhead that uses less water without losing pressure or adding a device to the cistern of your toilets to save water with every flush. If you have a garden or other outside space, you could consider getting a water butt to catch rainwater that you can then use to wash your car or water the plants.
