12 Sustainability Tips for 2022
Did you know that each GrowBiz newsletter contains an easy-to-implement sustainability tip? They could be useful for your work or home life or both. We’ve compiled 12 of our favourites since this time last year to help us all make a positive change for Earth Day on the 22nd of this month. They’re also sorted into handy categories, so if you’re looking for something specific to spring and summer, know you need to make improvements to food-related waste, or are looking for ideas to make the most of what you have, look no further:
Seasonal Ideas
Wrap up! One of the most effective things we can do to cut the environmental and economic cost of gas or oil heating is still to simply turn it down a couple of degrees and put on an extra layer. This is especially important as cold winter weather turns to milder spring temperatures.
Make the most of the summer weather by drying washing outside instead of in a tumble dryer. And make sure to leave the machine off rather than on standby, as it's otherwise still using energy.
If you’re planning to hold summer parties or BBQs this year then try to avoid single-use plastic. For example, you could ask guests to bring their own knives and forks rather than buying plastic cutlery.
Consider leaving a section of your lawn to grow long this summer in order to provide a small haven for wildlife — especially bees. Similarly, allow weeds such as clover flowers and dandelions to remain undisturbed, as many of them provide pollen and nectar.
Food Sustainability Tips
Use up leftover vegetables by blending them into a soup and putting aside for lunch the next day. Not only will this help prevent food waste, it’s good for you too!
Reduce food waste by planning your meals based on what you already have at home, and then making a shopping list and sticking to it. Try to also choose items with a longer use by date and use your freezer to keep things for longer where you can.
Did you know that many popular teabag brands contain micro-plastics? Switch to loose leaf or biodegradable, plastic free versions instead, whether at home, in the office or as a business premises.
An easy swap to cut down on plastic is to use foil instead of cling film for wrapping your packed lunches — and make sure to put it in the recycling bin when you’re done!
Recycling and Reusing Ideas
If you need to replenish your wardrobe, try browsing through some charity or thrift shops instead of buying new, and make sure to donate or recycle any clothes you don’t need anymore. If you do need to buy new, try to choose garments made from organic, natural and sustainable fibres.
If your business regularly sends out products, ask friends and family to pass on boxes and other packaging materials they receive, rather than throwing them away.
Be alert to opportunities to recycle around the home and office. For example, glass jars can hold pens and paper clips, cereal boxes cut diagonally are good for storing files and papers, and ice cream tubs are useful for tidying larger odds and ends.
To save paper, consider going digital for marketing materials such as brochures. For things that you really need to print, such as business cards, look for eco -friendly options, such as plastic-free and recycled materials.