“Most of us are aware of the impact of our daily lives on the environment, but it can be hard to know how to start making things better” says Reigate estate agent, Robert Leech. And with “green” cleaning products usually costing considerably more than the more mainstream labels, looking after our planet can also seem like an expensive option. Happily, there are lots of ways to go green without breaking the bank, and here are some of the best:
Say no to the unnecessar
We live in a world where we collect a lot of stuff we don’t really need, and expect companies to tempt us with freebies. One of the best – and cheapest -ways to look after the environment is to change the way we think about the material goods we bring into our homes. Sure, putting all the plastics and extra cardboard in the right recycling bin will help a little, but imagine how we could change the planet if we simply said no to things we don’t need.
Get more exercise
The UK’s population is becoming increasingly obese, and it’s no surprise when you consider how easy it is for most of us to just jump in the car instead of using our legs. Every time we start our engines we’re polluting the environment, so it’s a good idea to leave the car at home a couple of times a week and walk instead. It’ll do wonders for your physical and mental health, help you see more of the world and significantly reduce your carbon footprint.
Use water more sparingly
Nothing beats a good soak in the bath after a long, stressful day at work, but all that hot water is not so good for the environment. Cut your baths down if you can, choosing showers instead. “Better still, switch to a low-flow showerhead to reduce your water consumption even more” suggests M&M Property. Handwashing instead of using the dishwasher will also help you become greener, as will using your washing machine more frugally – only run full loads and keep the super hot cycles to really heavily soiled items.
Save the bees
The bee population is declining at an alarming rate, and it’s serious for all of us. Look after them by creating a wildlife garden in your outdoor space – not only will you be doing your bit for the planet but it will be a vibrant, sweet smelling haven you can enjoy too. Plants loved by bees include honeysuckle, orange blossom, foxgloves, borage, alium, hyacinths, cosmos daisies and much more.
Switch off
Being constantly connected to our mobile devices isn’t just bad for our health, it’s ruining the environment too. Phone chargers take up huge amounts of energy, and most electrical devices are sucking up the currents even when they’re not being used. “Smart surge protectors help minimise the amount of power electrical devices use, in turn helping to lower bills” suggests Robert Holmes. “And every once in a while, switch off your mobile altogether – the peace and quiet will be bliss!”
