In today’s world, we have grown to think it’s ok to just throw everything and anything away. Manufacturers have led us to believe that we need the newest piece of technology and the in-season fashion item. But this really isn’t the case. We need to remember that the newest TV, or the newest pair of shoes, are not going to bring our future generations happiness. Joining in with this fast fashion society will only cause harm to our children and their children.
Here’s a short list on how you can improve your stamp on the planet!
1. Use tap water instead of bottled water
In the UK, we are lucky that we can drink straight from our taps. The water that comes out of our taps is of the highest quality. All drinking water, whether it is from bottles or tap, must have the same quality standard according to Water UK. There is nothing harmful in tap water so you don’t even need to filter it. But some people like to reduce the chlorine taste. Did you know that 15 Million plastic bottles are used daily? Buy a reusable bottle and top it up with tap water!
2. Buy second hand
Buying second hand not only helps with manufacturing demands but keeps goods out of landfill. We live in a throwaway society where over 430,000 tonnes of clothing is thrown away every year in the UK. If people used second hand shops then less goes to landfill and the money stays in the community. It also helps your bank account as you can pick up some absolute bargains!
3. Use public transport
The obvious reason for taking the bus or train is the environmental factor. If more people took public transport, then there would obviously be less cars on the road. It has also been proven that it helps reduce stress as you spend more time outside and walking. Another way of reducing the number of cars on the road is to car share, I have known companies to offer rewards to people that car share to try and help with decreasing pollution in their local towns.
4. Use a reusable coffee mug
Everyone loves a hot drink when on the go, especially in the colder months. But we do not need to use a paper cup with every drink that we have. In the UK 2.5 billion paper cups are thrown away each year and a high percentage cannot be recycled! This is a ridiculous amount and one that must be reduced now! Starbucks offer a 25p discount if you use your own mug.
5. Buy eco-friendly clothing
Organic cotton is not only better for your skin, but it’s better for the health of the cotton farmers and health of the environment. Conventional cotton uses toxic chemical fertilisers whereas organic cotton is grown without using these chemicals. Eco Badger is a new clothing line which supplies eco-friendly items to all ages with the future of the planet in mind. When you shop with this company you are also able to return clothing once it has been worn out in return for store credit. The item is then recycled.
*This is a wonderful guest post from Kelly who runs Eco Badger clothing.