- Store food in re-sealable containers rather than in cling wrap or aluminium foil. And do the same if you’re making school packed lunches and picnics.
- Avoid disposable items: Use old tea towels and clothing instead of disposable cloths, wipes and dusters.
- Don’t just switch the TV and DVD to standby, switch to off!
- Use long-lasting low energy light bulbs. They’re more expensive to buy initially, but they save money in the long run as they use a lot less energy.
- Use rechargeable rather than disposable batteries. In the long run it works out cheaper and you’re reducing the impact of toxic chemicals on the environment.
- Try to use washable real nappies instead of expensive disposable nappies.
- Eating as a family or in a group reduces the generation of waste. When cooking individually, more waste is likely to be generated as more separate packets are used up. It also wastes energy to heat up the whole oven for one portion.
- Use the microwave - cooking a potato in a microwave oven uses around twenty times less energy than doing so in the oven.
- Most people use too much detergent in their washing machine - but using more doesn't make things cleaner. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the advised measured amount. The less you use the less often you will have to buy more.
- Try ordering vegetables through a delivered box scheme. This will support local farmers and you’ll receive fresh in-season vegetables.
