Environmentally Friendly

How to be more environmentally friendly

At Cassini Properties Estate and Lettings, we’re big on sustainable living. Where possible we try and use eco-friendly items and urge everyone else to do the same. After all, there’s only one world and we all need to do our bit. We strongly believe that if we all make a few simple life changes the environment would be a far better place. To help you out, we’ve created this simple guide on how to be more environmentally friendly.

1. Recycle and upcycle. Plastic, paper, wood, cardboard, and glass – there are loads of items that can be recycled so start by investing in a recycling bin. Get the kids involved and why not give upcycling a go and see what you could make from old items? Did you know that 80% of water bottles aren’t recycled and it takes 3 times the amount of water in one bottle to produce one?

2. Get modern. Shopping lists, to-do lists, birthday cards, and notes. Stop wasting paper and instead go digital. There’s plenty of apps available and it means you’ll never misplace your weekly shopping list ever again! It may seem small but all the post-it notes add up.

3. Share cars. Not only will you save money on petrol but giving your colleague a lift to work will also reduce the number of cars on the road and therefore decrease carbon emissions.

4. Say no to plastic bags. The government introduced a 5p charge for all carrier bags in an attempt to reduce the amount of plastic being used. However, we say go one step further and buy canvas bags. Not only are they protecting the environment but you can also wash them if they get a bit grubby.

5. Make a compost bin. Use a bin and throw in any biodegradable products, like fruit or vegetable scraps instead of throwing them away. You’ll cut down on rubbish and also create healthy, nutrient-filled soil for your garden.

6. Be wary of your shower. Sure, we all love a long, hot shower but shaving just one minute off your daily shower can save almost a thousand gallons of water every year. It’s good for the planet and you’ll save money on your water bill.

7. Turn lights off. Get into the habit of turning lights off when you leave a room. Again, you’ll notice the difference when it comes to paying your energy bill but also when it comes to saving the planet.

8. Choose eco-friendly appliances. Nowadays there are loads of energy efficient appliances such as dishwashers, washing machines, fridges and even windows. Do your research and remember every little helps.

9. Reduce your purchases. Before buying anything, ask yourself whether you really need it? It’s also a good idea to try and buy used items from charity shops or eBay. We also recommend buying reusable products such as coffee, razors, batteries, and ink.

10. Take part in an eco-Sabbath. One afternoon a week don’t buy anything, don’t use electric, don’t cook, don’t answer your phone and, in general, try not to use any resources.

11. Share and borrow from friends. Before buying anything ask your friends to see if they have it. Books, magazines, newspapers, and movies can all be shared and if you only need some temporarily, ask your loved ones if they own it.

12. Create a tree-free home. Wherever possible create a home without any products made from trees. Use cloth napkins, make your own cards, purchase toilet paper that is made from the highest post-consumer waste content, reuse wrapping paper and envelopes and leave messages on a family whiteboard.

13. Have a mug-to-go. If you head to the local coffee shop every morning before work, carry your own mug to replace the cardboard cups. Some coffee shops will even discount your drink if you bring your own mug.

14. Consider your diet. Switching to an animal-free, vegan diet is a powerful way to help protect our environment, help ensure everyone has enough to eat and improve your health.

15. Urge your friends and family. If we each asked one loved one to improve their habits and daily lifestyle, we would all notice a difference when it comes to the planet.