We should all be making an effort to help the planet, it should not just be left to a small group of individuals to do all the work on our behalf. Being environmentally friendly is becoming more important than ever before, and it is important that we all do out bit – although it can be difficult to know what to do or where to start. Here are some following ways in which we can help to save our planet and make it a better place for all to enjoy.
What can you do to help?
Try to bike or walk – One of the easiest ways to reduce your carbon footprint is to bike or walk wherever possible. When you do need to use a car, considering sharing with other people to cut down emissions, but also save yourself a bit of money! If you have the funds, it is a great idea to invest in a hybrid or electric car – to reduce your carbon footprint further. Many businesses are even beginning to encouraged eco-friendly transport, with cycle to work or car share schemes coming into place across the country.
Use the FIFO (first in, first out) method when buying food – Not everyone has heard of this method, however once you start implanting it you will see a big difference in the amount of food waste that you produce! Try to use ingredients and products that you bought first, to ensure they are used before they go out of date, this can also prevent you buying unnecessary food that you don’t need.
Recycle old clothes/furniture/materials – Instead of sending anything you no longer want to landfill, consider donating to a charity shop or re selling them online on Depop or Vinted. Not only could this get you a bit of extra cash, it can be a great way to do your bit for the environment. You never know – you will probably be surprised at how much everything you were going to chuck away is worth!
Buy from charity shops rather than fast fashion stores – A recent study conducted by women’s T-Shirt retailer Damart found that only 20% of us consider sustainability when purchasing fashion items. Try to buy second hand clothing, as not only can this be cheaper it can also support a charity or local community.
Always take your own bag – Many of us have a cupboard at home full of bags that we no longer need or will every use again. With the government introducing a minimum 10p levy for carrier bags, it can not only save the environment but also you a bit of money as well! Invest in a reusable bag that can be folded away into your handbag until you need it – this way you are never caught out and have to pay for a bag again!
Cut down on electricity – One of the main ways that you can save the environment is by reducing the amount of energy that you use. This could include anything from having eco-friendly energy sources installed at your home such as solar panels or underground pumps to reduce your carbon footprint – to making a conscious effort to turn off any unused appliances such as lights or hair straighteners when you have done using them.