Are you thinking about getting involved in the green movement but have no idea where to start? We get it, we’re not all born with green fingers, but take it from us – every small effort counts. Read on to find out more.

Everyone is talking about green this, organic that and how these small changes help to conserve the environment. They do. But, making a conscious effort to change your lifestyle – even small changes – can make a greater impact.

Whether it’s reducing, re-using or recycling plastics, glass, metals or compositing your scraps or both. These are just a few ways in which you really can make a positive impact on the environment. But, if you’re looking to do a little more, there are many ways in which you can share this passion with family, friends and even your community!

REDUCE, RE-USE, RECYCLE

“It’s only one plastic bottle.” said eight billion people and although we don’t want to sound clichéd, it’s true. The first step to living a greener lifestyle is by reducing the number of materials you use, such as plastics, paper, glass, and metals, and re-using materials that cannot be recycled. You also need to make an effort to recycle. So how do you do this? Firstly, by thinking before you spend on food, clothing, toiletry, and beauty items, and once used ask yourself if the item can be re-used or recycled. If not, dispose of it safely and take a mental note for next time when you are purchasing something you need again.

VOLUNTEER

To volunteer means to help conserve and protect the environment. But, that’s not the only benefit. By volunteering you’ll be taking care of our planet (which we know needs more love), beyond that, volunteering for a cause you are passionate about is a great way to meet like-minded people, make new friends, learn, get creative and maybe even start an eco-friendly organisation of your own!

RIVER CLEAN-UPS

While this may not be the most appealing way to help save our planet or bring environmental change, it’s both incredibly effective and rewarding. Since no one is responsible for cleaning trash from rivers, clean-ups usually only happen when communities get involved. River clean-ups not only clear away disposable items that don’t belong in the environment but also stop unwanted items from entering our oceans. Removing trash makes rivers safer for wildlife and humans by improving water quality while protecting aquatic habitats.

STOPPING POLLUTION ISN’T A SOLUTION

We would all love to ensure that once we are done using an item that it is disposed of correctly. Unfortunately, this isn’t realistic. While many of us care deeply for the environment and may become angered when we see someone littering, we aren’t able to constantly police the streets day or night. While we also don’t want to sit around and wait while our waterways become trash pits – we can all play a part by joining a locally-sponsored recycling facility or organisation to help in any way that you can.

TEACH AND REPEAT

Are you an amateur plant-based chef? Someone who loves to hunt for niche, vintage clothing items? Maybe you’re more on the creative side and know how to transform old fashion items into trendy new pieces? Maybe you’re good at DIY? If any of the above apply to you, you could also turn these talents into an eco-friendly cause and share it with the world! Organisations, charities, and schools are always looking for teachers – especially volunteer teachers. If that sounds too daunting, you could always start with a small group of friends and family or co-workers!

PLANT TREES

Our lives depend on trees, without them, we cannot breathe. But that’s not the only benefit. They also help to offset carbon emissions, decrease soil erosion, and provide food and habitat for wildlife. So, if you are given the opportunity, try and encourage those around you to plant and look after the trees in your area.

GROW A COMMUNITY GARDEN

Community gardens are a shared space where people can get together to plant and grow all sorts of plants, flowers, fruits, vegetables, and herbs. Not only will this get communities together, but they also absorb carbon, support pollinator habitats, and reduce carbon emissions!

Whatever you choose to do, always remember that every little bit you do helps to make a positive impact on the environment.