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Want to up your eco-credentials? Saving the planet doesn’t have to cost the earth
Making sure you’re doing your bit for the environment may seem daunting. “While it’s true that, if you have the means to do so, converting home-heating systems from gas to heat pumps are important steps, there are many effective ways people can reduce their environmental footprint without a big outlay,” says Clare Oxborrow, senior sustainability analyst at Friends of the Earth (friendsoftheearth. uk). “From reducing food waste and recycling, to buying less stuff and choosing sustainable businesses, these steps can cut harmful carbon emissions.” Here’s some expert advice on how you can help the planet –and conserve your cash.
Save up your washing
When it comes to washing up, a fully loaded dishwasher can be more water efficient than washing by hand. Likewise, we should wash clothes less and, when we do, keep the temperature on your washing machine to 30°C to save on bills. One less load per week could save £8 a year according to the Energy Saving Trust. Instead of tossing a top with a stain in the machine try and spot-clean it first, or steal a trick from wardrobe professionals in the entertainment industry and neutralise body odour smells by spritzing with vodka to keep clothes fresh.
Buy second-hand or rent
Peruse charity shops for bargains. Research showed the environmental impact of reusing textiles is 70 times lower, even accounting for global exports for reuse, including transport emissions. When it comes to items like power tools or gadgets, not everything needs to be bought – either new or refurbished. Projects such as the Library of Things (libraryofthings.co.uk) are tool libraries where you can get drills, camping equipment and more, helping you save money.
