1. Learn a simple repair
Learning a quick and easy repair is a great way to get more use out of your items and avoid throwing them away. This could be a sewing repair such as stitching up a hole or sewing on a button, an electronic repair such as replacing a fuse, and many more. Once you have mastered the skill, why not pass your knowledge on to someone else?
2. Try eating a plant-based meal a couple of times a week
We know that fully plant-based diets aren’t for everyone but even cutting out meat once or twice a week can make a big environmental impact. You could try following our recipes for a delicious and easy tofu stir fry!
3. Bring your own bag to the shops
Bringing your own bag is a simple swap that most of us have already made but can often be forgotten about. Make sure you have some in your car boot before you head out – you could try writing a reminder at the top of your shopping list if you often forget.
4. Check your local recycling guidelines
It is important to be up to date with your councils recycling guidelines to make sure you are not missing recyclable items and not contaminating recycling streams with things that can’t be recycled. It only takes a minute to check before you bin – see below for your councils’ guidelines.
Barnsley: https://www.barnsley.gov.uk/services/bins-rubbish-and-recycling/what-goes-in-your-bins/
Doncaster: https://www.doncaster.gov.uk/services/bins-recycling-waste/a-z-of-recycling
Rotherham: https://www.rotherham.gov.uk/rubbish-recycling/goes-bin/1
Sheffield: https://www.sheffield.gov.uk/bins-waste-recycling/about-your-bins/houses
5. Wear something you haven’t worn in a while
Many of us have items of clothing hiding at the back of our wardrobe that barely see the light of day! Try pulling out some pieces that you haven’t worn in a while and styling them in a different way. If you can’t find a way to wear them, maybe it’s time to donate or sell them.
6. Buy loose produce
Buying loose produce not only saves on plastic waste but also saves you money. It means you’re only paying for the fruit and veg that you actually need. This also means less food ends up in the bin!
7. Take some old electricals to a recycling point
Most of us will have some old cables, remotes or devices laying around that no longer work. Take these down to a recycling point local to you so the materials can be transformed into something new!
8. Plan a meal using your leftovers
Using your leftovers is an easy way to make a quick lunch or dinner and saves your food from going in the bin. Try popping it in a reusable container to reheat the next day.
9. Check out your local market
Local markets are a great way to support small businesses. They often sell a wide range of hand crafted items and local produce, supporting smaller-scale sustainable shopping practices.
10. Try refillable cleaning products
Cleaning and hygiene products often come in plastic packaging that can be difficult to recycle. Instead of buying new trigger and pump bottles each time the product runs out, why not switch to a refill? This minimises the packaging waste and often saves you money too!