The start of a new year is a perfect time to kick old habits and start some new ones. An excellent New Year’s resolution is to do more for the planet, however, thinking about the natural world can be overtaken by concerns about rising bills and the cost of living.
Did you know that by helping the environment, you could also be helping yourself? These are just a few small actions we can all take that helps to solve big problems.
Change your energy use. From switching to a renewable supplier to turning down your heating and improving your home's energy efficiency, changing your energy use is not only great for the environment but can also help reduce your household bills. Other ways of reducing your energy use include washing clothes at a lower temperature, only filling the kettle with what you need and switching off appliances at the mains.
Conserve water. Using less water saves energy, keeps more water in our ecosystems and means smaller water bills! Small changes such as turning off the tap while you brush your teeth, taking showers instead of baths and using your (full!) dishwasher on an eco-setting can all add up.
Watch what you wash away. What’s going down your plughole? Some cosmetics, soaps and washing-up liquids can be harmful to wildlife with long-lasting effects. Check the label when you buy, as most detergents are clear about whether or not they’re biodegradable. Supermarket own brands often have good products made from natural and environmentally friendly ingredients and can save you money.
Change what you eat and reduce food waste. Buying local produce, eating less meat and reducing your food miles can shrink your carbon footprint. If all of our food came from within 20km of where we live, we could save £1.2 billion every year in environmental costs, while supporting local farmers and businesses. Buying local often means purchasing seasonal produce, which can be tastier… and cheaper!
Reduce, reuse, recycle. Plastic use poses one of the biggest threats to wildlife. One of the best things we can do for the planet is cut down on our reliance on plastic. There are lots of ways to reduce your plastic use; use a reusable coffee cup, a tote bag for shopping, beeswax wraps instead of cling film. If you do use plastic, try to reuse as much as possible. Plastic bags and bottles can be used time and time again. What you can’t reuse, recycle. You might even be familiar with upcycling. Old household items might have more uses than you think. An old boot could be a new planter! A plastic container could be transformed into a mini greenhouse!
Change the way you travel. Reducing vehicle emissions doesn’t just reduce pollution, it can also save you money. Use public transport where possible, consider cycling or walking to the shops instead of driving and paying for petrol and parking. If this isn’t possible, why not car share, open windows instead of using air conditioning or if you’re able, choose a greener car. Changing the way you travel can also have excellent health benefits. Walking and cycling won’t just save you money, it can help keep you fit! Why not ask your workplace to review their expenses or travel policies to incentivise commuting in greener ways? It helps reduce the organisation’s carbon footprint and improve staff wellbeing?
Get outside. Spending time outside has been proven to benefit our physical and mental health. January is often a time when we start feeling pressure to join a gym and get fit, but why not make nature your gym – it’s free! Connecting with nature a little bit each day can make us feel happier and healthier. Ask your schools to teach more lessons outside. PE, Maths, English and Art can all be taught in and using the natural world.
Give greener. When shopping for gifts for loved ones, considering the environmental impact can also save money. Why not send an e-card? Choose recycled and recyclable wrapping paper, create homemade tags from old cards or consider giving homemade gifts. Charity shops can be a treasure trove of unique second-hand gifts. Did you know you can also help the planet while you shop online? By using services like Give As You Live and Amazon Smile, your online shopping at thousands of stores can generate donations for a charity of your choice, without any additional cost to you.
Install a water butt. If you’re lucky enough to have garden space, a water butt can lower the risks of local flooding and reduce bills by conserving the water you already have. They're great for watering the garden, refilling a pond or even washing the car! Rainwater is also better for your plants and ponds as it often has a lower PH. If you don't have a garden, why not encourage your school or workplace to install one on their grounds?
Grow your own. Growing your own vegetables and herbs is a fantastic way to save money and reduce your impact on the planet. You can avoid plastic wrapped products often found in supermarkets and enjoy seasonal, fresh produce. It's not only great for you, it's also great for wildlife and will attract pollinators like bees and butterflies to your garden.
Compost your waste. Instead of sending your green waste to landfill, create your own compost. You'll also be creating a perfect habitat for minibeasts. Using your own compost will increase the organic content in your soil. Mixing it with shop bought (peat-free) compost will improve the soil and reduce the need for chemical controls to deter pests. It will also increase water retention. All you need for a successful compost heap is waste, water and air!
With everything going on in the world, things can feel overwhelming and too big to face as individuals. However, we can share the little ‘hacks’ we’re doing to make our lives more affordable, environmentally conscious and wilder.
Together we can help each other save money, save time and be happier and healthier, all whilst saving the natural world.
Let everyone know the hacks you do as part of your everyday routine to help the natural world. Tell friends and family or share them on social media. Tag us and use #WildLifeHacks Perhaps you’ll inspire others. All the small actions really do add up.
