With the COVID-19 pandemic still drastically changing everyone’s lives in ways we never could have expected, you’d be forgiven for being a little caught up in it. Unfortunately, this isn’t the only severe global issue threatening humanity. Climate change is still a growing problem and needs action from all of us.
So, how can you make sure you’re doing your bit to save the planet while in self-isolation? Here are our top five ways.
1. In the garden
We’ve already covered this one but essentially some of the most environmentally-friendly things you can do are in your own backyard - literally! If you’re lucky enough to have some sort of outdoor space in your home, there’s so much you can do for the planet through gardening, growing and (of course) composting. As we’ve covered ,,here, it might also help cut down on the dreaded grocery runs.
2. In the kitchen
Moving inside, you may not have a garden but you probably have some sort of kitchen that you’re also probably using a lot more since eating out is no longer an option. This is a perfect chance to learn how to minimise your food waste through creative cooking. Wastage of food is one of the most avoidable contributors to climate change and over half of it can be prevented by simply using up what you buy.
While you’re adding new recipes to your repertoire as well, try learning some meatless options. A full vegetarian lifestyle has half the carbon footprint of a meat consumer but even just a few days a week of pro-plant meals makes a difference.
3. Power down
You’ve probably already done some corona-cleaning, getting on to all the household chores you’ve been putting off for too long. While getting into those nooks and crannies, use it as an opportunity to de-power your house. Plugged in, switched on but not-in-use appliances make up around 20% of household electricity so you'll be saving the environment and your wallet.
4. Exercising and essentials
If you’re adhering to social distancing guidelines (and you should be) most of your few outings are going to be to the grocery store or for a jog. Why not combine the two?
With a lot more free time, if you live near enough to your essential services stores, see if you can leave the car at home in preference of a more carbon-neutral transportation alternative. If you combine it with your workout, that’ll definitely be a solid arms day!
5. Don't buy, don't bin
Two of the most important individual actions you can take against climate change are minimising both consumption and waste. Take this time to try and detox from non-essential purchases, no matter how tempting those online sales might look. What’s more, when you do absolutely need something, oftentimes a viable alternative can be upcycled from all the clutter you’ve been meaning to throw out for years.
These sorts of DIY and craft projects are also an excellent way to stave off boredom so, in such trying times, Pinterest is your friend.
By simply doing a few of these things, you can be a humanity hero, solving two global challenges at the same time!
Now, it goes without saying that our favourite of these is getting a compost set-up but if you’re not sure how to, check out the rest of our posts ,,here. Make sure to stay up to date on our socials as well (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and LinkedIn) for the best green, clean, compost content!