There’s been a lot of talk about living a more sustainable life recently – including a massive debate on plastic straws in our office recently. Not only can we help the environment but we can also improve our health in the process, seems like a no brainer? – So I thought I’d have a look about some small changes we can all make that will help make a big difference.
- Swap driving for walking
In 2018 I’ve vowed to start walking more. Although not practical for everyone, if you can take a stroll to work, or down to the shops, it’s a great way to not only improve your health but also have a positive step on the environment. Fewer gas-guzzling cars on the roads has to be a good thing. Also a massive bonus in your wallet!
- Switch from petrol to electric
If you don’t live in a city like me, or walking just isn’t an option then you might need to use your car. But how about switching to a hybrid car or even go fully electric? With charging points continuing to pop up everywhere it’s becoming increasingly viable to make that switch and sites like NewMotion charge point make things event easier.
- Switch from disposable to reusable cups
The amount of disposable cups we use for coffee or even water is crazy. With moves being made by the government to tax cups we now have a financial as well as a environmental motivation to make a move away from single use plastic. Plus you can get some really cool reusable coffee cups – like my Keep Cup here which I love!
- Swap your bath for a shower
The average bath uses around 80 litres of water, while a short shower uses around a third of that amount while getting you just as clean. Watch out if you have a power shower though, as they can use even more water than a bath, according to Water Wise. Try timing your showers to keep them short to limit the amount of water used. And if you do have a long soak, consider reusing the bathwater to water plants.
- Swap your cleaning products
Bleach and other disinfectants you buy in the supermarket do the job but can contain some pretty nasty stuff, and come in plastic bottles which can’t always be recycled. Why not do what Granny used to, and make your own? A bit of baking soda, vinegar and old newspaper won’t cost you much either. Look for ideas online.
Do you have any other tips for living a more environmentally friendly life? Feel free to hit me up I’m keen to learn more.