2 – Reduce plastic usage
Scientists very recently discovered microplastics 11,000 metres below sea level in the Mariana Trench, the deepest known point in our oceans. To put that into perspective, Mount Everest’s summit is 8,850 metres above sea level, so these plastics are being found two kilometres deeper in the ocean than Everest is high. Microplastics have also been found in our tap water, inside the stomachs of a third of all fish caught in UK waters, in 90% of table salt, and in human organs.
We as a society have taken some very positive steps in reducing plastic usage, with plastic microbeads now banned in the UK, the carrier bag charge now in full force, and a ban on many single-use plastics in effect.
However, there is still more we can all do:
Use reusable water bottles or coffee flasks
Stop using straws, or invest in a reusable straw if you really need one
Reuse plastic bags or use paper bags, canvas bags, tote bags, or bags for life
Buy loose fruit and veg instead of pre-packaged alternatives
Try to use bars of soap instead of bottles – this can also be done with shampoo and conditioner bars from certain retailers, although these may be more expensive
Refill printer ink instead of buying new cartridges each time
Say no to disposable cutlery.
3 – Use eco-friendly products or services
Where possible, try to use environmentally conscious services.
Many companies are now going green, and that doesn’t just apply to retailers. Many services are going green, too. As mentioned, here at Shred Station, we offer environmentally friendly shredding services. Numerous cleaning companies are also going eco-friendly, and many offices are switching to solar power.
There is also the option of opting for environmentally responsible brands. This goes for everything from cars to clothes, to cosmetics and paper!
4 – Reduce energy consumption
This is an obvious one that you will probably have heard many times. It is nonetheless still very important.
You can reduce energy consumption by:
Putting on a warm jumper and thick socks instead of turning up the thermostat
Turn TVs off instead of leaving them on standby
Shut off running water when brushing your teeth
Turn off the lights when leaving the room
Use energy-efficient light bulbs
Turn off lights when leaving the workplace at night – this is something that many high-street stores have started doing after facing criticism when leaving store lights on at night.
Conserving electrical energy helps to lessen pollution, reduce greenhouse gases, and can even save you some money too.
5 – Challenge your local MP or Council
If you feel like not enough is being done in your local area to promote going green, challenge your local MP. Our politicians are best positioned to make meaningful changes in our local area, so do not hesitate to contact them to express any changes you think could be made.
To find out who your MP is and how you can contact them, click here and enter your postcode. Alternatively, you can contact your local council by following this link, entering your postcode, and clicking on the link to their website.
6 – Spread the word
Encouraging others to protect the environment is imperative, as we must get everyone on board to make significant positive change. Talk to friends, family, and your employer to see what you can all do together to help the environment. If everyone does a little, it can go a long way.
