Everything, from the food we eat to the clothes we buy, has a carbon footprint attached to it. That means all of the emissions which added up in the processes that went into making and shipping the final product to you or the shop where you bought it.
There are things we can all do to minimise our impact on the environment. If you’re new to this, perhaps pick one or two things to start with and try to stick to them. You can always do more later.
Reduce – the amount of the earth’s resources that you use
Did you know that the fashion industry is responsible for more carbon emissions than aeroplanes?
- Take the #SecondHandFirst pledge – when you do buy new clothes, consider second-hand websites, charity shops.
- If you are buying new clothes, you can also check whether the retailer follows good sustainable practices. Download the Good On You app to check the credentials of brands.
Kick the single-use plastic problem:
- Try a refillable water bottle – the Mayor of London has installed water fountains around the capital, including one in Willesden Green and thousands of cafes, shops and businesses offer free tap water on request
- Use a bag for life when shopping
- Cut down on plastic bottles – shampoo bars and bar soaps are a great alternative to bottles
Eat more vegetables:
- Farming animals to eat can be very carbon-intensive. Try eating meat on fewer days a week, or not at all.
Reuse – don’t just bin it, could you use it for something else?
- There are lots of creative ways to re-use furniture, electrical items and more by learning to upcycle.
Repair - do you really need to buy a replacement or could you fix it?
- Learn how to extend the life of your clothes by repairing them – check West London Waste’s website for tips and upcoming workshops
- Find out if electrical items can be repaired. The manufacturer will have a list of approved repair centres or find your nearest local repair shop.