1. Save Energy
Reduce carbon emissions through small everyday acts like switching off and unplugging whenever something is not being used. Rethink how you do household chores, like only doing laundry on a full load and drying it under the sun rather than in the dryer. Opt for energy-efficient and climate-friendly appliances. If you qualify, make use of the government’s Climate Friendly Households Programme to purchase climate-friendly household goods like shower fittings and LED lights. Maintain your appliances so they work better not harder. Cleaning or replacing HVAC filters in your air conditioner every three months ensures it uses energy more efficiently.
2. Reduce Waste
- Find ways to reuse. Like reusing water from washing fruits and vegetables to water the plants or clean the toilet, and saving vegetable peelings for vermicompost.
- Consider all the goods and groceries you frequently cycle through and find more sustainable alternatives that use less packaging, create less waste, and are biodegradable.
- Switch from bottled body wash and bottled shampoo to soap bars and shampoo bars; buy loose tea leaves rather than single-use tea-bags; use washable cloths instead of paper napkins and paper towels; choose biodegradable bamboo toothbrush over plastic toothbrush; stop lining bins with plastic bags and instead wash and rinse the bins.
- Make your own multi-purpose cleaning solution using vinegar, lemon, baking soda and water—this reduces plastic packaging and environmental harm cause by the manufacture, use, and disposal of toxic chemicals in cleaners.
- Opt for paperless bills and letters.
- Choose to repair rather than replace. If you do replace or add, buy used or second-hand.
3. Go Local
- Buy household goods and groceries that are grown, produced or manufactured locally or regionally. This reduces carbon footprint created during transport. It also helps the local and regional economy grow and thrive.
- Up your self-sufficiency by growing your own produce and learning to make what you need.
4. Look For Certified Products
- For wood, paper and other forest products, choose those certified by Forest Stewardship Council.
- For textile and leather, choose those certified by Oeko-Tex.
- Beware of greenwashing.
5. Advocate
- Start a conversation with your children, family and friends about climate change.
