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It might feel as if the battle against climate change, environmental pollution and preservation of the world’s wildlife is too big a challenge for any one person to take on, but if we all make a few small changes, we can make a big difference.
While setting large and lofty New Year’s resolutions can be a great way to give yourself the motivation to achieve a goal (my 2018 resolution is what led me to launch my eco store Banish!), small changes are usually the easiest to implement into our daily lives – and maintain.
Here are five simple ideas to you make 2020 more eco-friendly.
1. Go meat-free for a day
According to researchers from Oxford, meat, dairy, egg and fish farming use 83% of the world’s farmland, yet provide only 18% of the world’s calories. Going meat-free for one day each week is a simple way to slash your ecological footprint. Check out our vegetarian recipes for a delicious dose of inspiration.
2. Break up with single-use
50% of the plastic that the average Australian purchases is used just once before it is thrown away. In 2020, it’s well and truly time to say no to single-use. It’s all about being organised, so grab your reusable coffee cup (or leave an extra at work for the *compulsory* office coffee run), don’t leave the house without a tote bag and keep your reusable water bottle with you at all times! Plus, breaking up with single-use plastic can save you up to $800 a year.
3. Mend, repair and borrow
A whopping 6,000kg of clothes is thrown out every 10 minutes in Australia. Before you hit the shops, delve into the depths of your wardrobe. Can you repair or mend a piece of clothing rather than buying new? Need a new outfit for a flashy event? Why not borrow something from a friend? This simple mindset will save your pocket and our planet.
4. Cut down on food waste
The average household throws away a staggering 20% of their food, or 1 in 5 shopping bags! Before you head to the supermarket, do a fridge audit so you don’t buy double, and use your old food before buying new. If your veggies are looking a little sad, roast them, freeze them or make a batch of this veggie stock.
5. Use less water
Water is one of our most precious resources – so use it wisely! Turn off the tap when you’re brushing your teeth, pop a bucket or watering can at the bottom of your shower to water your garden and cut down your shower by just 60 seconds to save 11L of water.
See more great ideas and products on the Banish Instagram
You might also like:
How to make your own compost bin
How to have a plastic-free grocery shop
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