You don’t need to be a political or social power to make the world a better place. If everyone made small changes to their every day lives we could all be part of the solution.
“The greatest threat to our planet is the belief that someone else will save it.” – Robert Swan.
1) Buy recycled.
Make a choice and let companies know there is a demand for recycled products, this can be paper, kitchen roll and toilet roll. If you see a product that has been made of reused material buy it over new. It isn’t just paper that can be recycled and reused but plastic too. If you see a tote bag made of plastic bottles buy it. Use it for your shopping and send a message we want to be part of a greater change.
2) Insulate your home.
This doesn’t have to be a costly investment. This can be draught excluders, strips can be bought cheaply at DIY stores or you can look at more decorative options such as cushions. It is also worth checking that your windows and floors don’t have gaps, if they do these can be easily sealed. Window dressings such as curtains and blinds can also exclude draught but one of the most effective ways to keep the cold out is double glazing windows. If you don’t already have double glazing it is an investment worth looking into. It could save you hundreds of pounds of dollars on your annual heating bill.
3) Energy efficient light bulbs.
There really is very little reason not to make the switch. Energy efficient bulbs use less energy and last longer. This small change could help in battling environmental issues such and greenhouse gas emissions and waste reduction.
4) Create your own compost.
Most council areas do have food and garden waste bins now which is great for the local environment and beyond. But by composting you can benefit your own garden and green spaces directly as composting improves soil quality. Nutrients like carbon and nitrogen are used by plants for growth and contribute to the process of photosynthesis. Compost also aids water retention in the soil for plants to use. Given recent heatwaves this is invaluable. Composting also helps clean up contaminated soil by adding microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi. They introduce air into the soil which speeds up the process of composting.
5) Smart living.
Some of these things we may already do without even noticing but if not they are simple changes.
- Turn off your switches.
- Recycle and reduce your waste contribution.
- Only cook what you need or use leftovers.
- Don’t leave the tap on when you aren’t using it.
- Only refill your kettle for cups needed.
- Use a blanket or put on a hoodie if the heating doesn’t need to go on.
- Cook intelligently – pan lids and keeping the oven door closed. This is energy escaping.
- Not quite in the home but limiting your miles. Do you really need to drive around the corner to the local shop?
So what will be your One Change Now that will change the world?