Green Tips Archive

• When buying kitchen appliances, look out for the Energy Efficiency Recommended logo on them

• Avoid excess packaging when shopping: buy in bulk when it is possible

• Collect rainwater in water butts to use for watering plants

• Avoid using pesticides in your garden whenever possible. Find out how Kew is protecting its plant collection by using biological pest control

• Reduce your electricity consumption by changing a few of your light-bulbs into energy-saving ones

• Do not leave electrical appliances standby - save energy by switching them off when not in use

• Stop unwanted mail by contacting the Mailing Preference Service on 08457034599 or register online at mpsonline.org.uk

• Recycle your printer cartridges

• Reduce your paper usage by using both sides of paper when printing or writing

• Recycle your plant waste and use it as compost to improve soil. Avoid using peat in soil improvers, mulches and compost. see our compost recipe below.

• At Christmas - Start collecting materials for gift tags and home-made tree decorations that will make this family event truly unique. Pine cones, berries, empty cotton bobbins and other materials that you would otherwise throw away might all come useful.

• Make full use of the recycling schemes offered by your local council . If you are unsure about what can be recycled in your area, visit www.recyclenow.com for up-to-date, postcode-specific information.

• If using public transport is not an option for you, why not try a car-sharing scheme to lower emissions and fuel consumption. This might even make your journey a more enjoyable one!

• Reduce the amount of energy you use for heating: turn down the thermostat when you go to bed or when you leave home.

• Avoid using plastic bags - instead, take re-usable canvas bags with you when doing the shopping.

To check your carbon footprint visit
Act on CO2