Climate change is a global challenge that requires collective effort, making small changes in our daily lives can have a big impact. Everyone can do something!
Start with small, achievable changes
- Reduce, reuse, recycle – Only buy what you really need, plan meals, shop locally and remember to bring your own bags. Carrying a reusable coffee cup/refillable water bottle is a great way to cut out single use plastics, using Brumicup is also a great option. A lot of us already recycle at home but did you know you can also recycle soft plastics like frozen food bags and other flexible food packaging at most supermarkets?
- Going completely zero-waste can feel overwhelming but focusing on one part of your home at a time can help. For example, in the kitchen you could try re-usable food wraps and switching to plastic free, compostable washing up sponges.
- Reduce food waste – Planning your meals, only buying what you really need and eating leftovers can significantly reduce your food waste. We recommend visiting our friends at Change Kitchen in Balsall Heath, reducing food waste, cooking up change and supporting communities across the city. Try using apps like Too Good To Go, this enables you to try new things from local cafes or restaurants, save money, reduce waste and help the environment at the same time.
- Shop sustainably – Buy LESS and buy BETTER. Charity shops, eBay, Vinted and Depop are great options. Choose to shop fair trade and sustainably whenever possible, checking for ethical labelling and using local, zero waste, plastic and packaging free shops like Clean Kilo are all good options.
Help Nature to Thrive
- Try and get outside more often – we encourage you to explore locally and really take notice of nature on your doorstep. Use our 69wards maps and visit a local greenspace, find hidden gems and see your neighbourhood differently. Together we can create a world we all want to live in, when you go for a walk pick up any litter you see along the way. This will help to improve the area for both people and wildlife. Check out the ‘goodgym’ – and connect with your community and get fit by doing good.
- Taking up gardening is good for your mental and physical health, planting flowers for bee’s, creating a bug hotel or introducing bird feeders will help wildlife and improve biodiversity. If you don’t have a garden why find out what’s happening at your local greenspace or community garden. On our website you can information about our outdoor learning sessions for families and children and have resources available if you are interested in setting up a community garden.
- Follow us on social media – @ecobirmingham to stay motivated and for more information about living sustainably, our projects and events.