5 super easy ways to make your home more eco-friendly
Spending more time at home has made me want to do a different kind of spring clean: one that's good for the planet, wallet-friendly and works for anyone.
Looking for something to do at home? It's nothing fancy so don't get your hopes up, but it's something easy, it makes the planet a greener place and will make you feel great.
With so many ways to be eco-friendly, the task can seem daunting. So here are a few things that you can do to reduce your footprint with minimal effort.
1. Say no to cutlery when ordering takeout
Have you found yourself ordering in more often lately? You can opt out of receiving cutlery on delivery apps such as Deliveroo and Easi. It's a small change on your end, but collectively can make a huge difference in the production of these materials. If you can't opt out, try leaving a note with your order.
2. Invest in a nice, comfortable face mask
Wearing masks has become the norm and probably isn't going away any time soon with increased regulations. That said, have you noticed all the disposable masks in the gutters and waterways? For just a few dollars, you can buy a reusable mask that doesn't end up in the landfill after a few uses.
This is a useful tip from Amy, one of our green experts.
"When you do wear disposable masks (because sometimes they're unavoidable) – make sure you snip the loops before disposing of them. This helps stop wildlife from getting tangled up in them."
Amy Bradney-George
Editor, Finder Green contributor
3. Recycle your soft plastics at a Woolies or Coles
Recycling can be very confusing, but here's a simple rule to follow when it comes to soft plastics (things like chip packets, bread bags and delivery satchels). If you can scrunch the plastic into a ball with your fist, it can be recycled! Or you can visit REDcycle's website to double check.
Collect all of your soft plastics and recycle them at your local Woolworths or Coles (not in your normal recycle bin). Little effort, big reward for the soul.
"You can take it a step further. If you use plastic bags for fruit and veg, reuse the same bag each time you shop (I do this for salad leaves, for example)" – Amy
4. Make sure your dog's poop bags are compostable
I'm a dog owner so this is a big one for me. Considering your dog can go a few times a day, it's important to make sure that you: 1) pick up after your dog, 2) use compostable or biodegradable bags.
If the packet says the bags are made from cornstarch, you're on the right track. To make it even better, check to see that the bags are made of other natural materials. This way, it can decompose and leave minimal impact on the environment.
5. Choose a green company
Admittedly, this one is not always as easy as the rest, but still totally doable!
Think about your household bills; energy bills, home insurance, car insurance, phone bill, etc. A lot of companies in these spaces support green initiatives or even have completely green options you can swap to. So if you have the time, switching your bills to a greener company is a great way to have an impact.
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