Greener living tips
Save energy
Appliances that are left on standby still use electricity. So make a habit of switching TVs, computers and mobile phone chargers off at the plug. It’ll save energy and lower your electricity bill.
Energy saving light bulbs could save you up to £60 in electricity over their lifetime but remember to switch them off when you leave a room.
You can also save energy by changing your heating timer so you’re not heating an empty home, and turning off the radiators in rooms that aren’t being used. Plus, if you lower your thermostat by just 1 degree, you could save up to 10% on your heating bills.
Save water
Fix a dripping tap – it could save a massive 90 litres of water per week.
Only fill the kettle with as much water as you need and wait until you have a full load before switching on your dishwasher or your washing machine – these will save electricity too.
You can also try placing a brick (pop
it in a plastic bag first!) in your toilet cistern. You'll use less water every time you flush.
And this one’s really simple – just turn
the tap off while brushing your teeth.
Recycle your own water
Whenever you run the hot tap, there’s always a bit of cold comes through first. Rather than wasting this water, why not
use it to water plants?
Try washing your fruit and vegetables in a bowl rather than under a running tap. You can use the water in the home and garden too.
But you don’t have to stop there. Up to 60% of household waste can be recycled – find out about schemes in your area.