We currently use up nature's resources 1.7 times faster than the planet can regenerate them. The message is clear: something needs to change. But while most people are all for greener policies – from the plastic bag charge to the banning of microbeads in cosmetics – many of us don't know where to start at home. With that in mind, here are a few simple household swaps you can make right now to lessen your strain on the planet…
A simple way to bring less plastic into your home is to purchase loose produce instead of the packaged kind. In fact, it’s such a green idea that many retailers have plastic-free initiatives, allowing customers to use their own packaging. Check out your local greengrocers or farmers' market too for reasonably priced, and often local, options. Or failing that – you could even have a go at growing your own.
A plastic bag takes around 500 years to break down and as it does it releases plastic particles, which contaminate soil and waterways and enter the food web. Plus – they cost money now! Swap it out for a sturdy reusable bag instead which will last for many years and over time save you money too.
Disposable plastic clingfilm is bad news for the environment, but it's a convenient kitchen tool many of us rely on. Fortunately, there is now a green alternative for wrapping up leftovers – beeswax wrap. Made from organic cotton, beeswax and jojoba oil this wrap will last up to a year and once it's at the end of its life? Stick it in the compost bin!
In the UK we throw away 2.5 billion takeaway coffee cups every single year. And 99.75% of them are not recycled as their plastic and paper lining can only be processed at a few specialist plants. Say no to single-use plastic and get yourself a reusable coffee cup instead. Some coffee shops will even give you a discount for using one. Win win!
Around 17% of Britons own a coffee pod machine. But these convenient hits of caffeine are difficult to recycle – one German city has even banned them from all state-run buildings in a bid to reduce waste. Buy eco compostable pods instead or swap your pod out for a good old-fashioned cafetière.
It’s thought that 3.6 billion toothbrushes are used every year globally and a staggering 80% of them end up in the sea. Swapping your toothbrush may seem like a drop in the ocean, but when you consider the average person goes through 300 in a lifetime you can see how it would quickly add up.
Here in the UK, we consume 36 billion cups of tea every year! And a whopping 96% of us choose bags over leaves – but unfortunately many bags contain plastic as it helps stop them falling apart. If you love your morning cuppa, buy plastic-free organic teabags. Or why not try loose leaf tea and a strainer instead? You’ll be doing your bit for the environment, plus experts say it tastes better.
A harrowing video of a turtle with a straw stuck up his nose highlighted just how dangerous single-use plastic is for marine life. If you’re an avid straw user, pick a sturdy steel straw that you can use for years to come.
Most baking paper is coated with silicone to help make it nonstick, plus once it’s been stained with food it can’t be recycled. If you do a lot of baking, why not invest in some reusable baking liners? This one from Lakeland will last for five or more years, plus it's dishwasher safe and can be cut to size.
Would you believe the luxe-looking duvet on the right is actually made from recycled plastic bottles? But don’t worry, it won’t feel like you’re getting into bed in a plastic recycling bin – the material has been spun and blown to 'simulate the hand feel and warmth of natural down'.
Many people think dirty kitchen roll is recyclable – it isn’t! Banish kitchen roll in your kitchen and opt for reusable bamboo towels instead. These ones from Ecoegg are made from organic, sustainably sourced bamboo and can be washed and reused 85 times. There are 20 sheets in a roll meaning one pack will last 1,700 uses.
Research has found regular exposure to powerful cleaning products could increase your chances of developing chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) by nearly a third. You could have a go at making your own cleaning products (but be sure to research them thoroughly to make sure they are safe) or for a quick swap simply stock up on eco versions of your favourite products – some popular eco brands include Method, Dr Bronner’s and Ecover.
Britons spend over £2 billion on cut flowers per year. But while they might be a nice romantic gesture, they are a nightmare for the environment. First, they have to be watered and grown, then transported to the UK (90% are imported) and finally preserved in a refrigerator. Not to mention the lashings of cellphone they usually come wrapped in. Go for a real plant instead – not only will you be doing your bit for the planet, but they help remove airborne pollutants too.
Air fresheners might make your home smell nice, but they can also trigger allergy symptoms as well as worsen existing allergies and asthma. Not cool. They also don’t tend to get rid of odours, just cover them up. To get a naturally fresh smelling home keep on top of cleaning and give it a daily blast of fresh outdoor air.
Next time you need something for your house, such as a piece of furniture, consider whether you could buy it second-hand or vintage. As these products already exist, it’s less of a strain on the environment and they could be prime for some upcycling.
If you do a lot of cooking from scratch or eat plenty of fruit and vegetables, it could be worth investing in a compost bin. Simply chuck your vegetable peel and egg shells etc. in the compost bin instead of your regular bin and you’ll not only reduce waste but save money on compost, too.
READ NEXT: Incredible Earthships: Off-grid homes you've got to see