Spring is traditionally the planting season, when farmers and gardeners begin planting, with the view to enjoying the fruits of the labour in September/October. The actions taken today, will determine the outcome in the future.
Similarly, the impact of the actions taken today on the environment will only be visible in the future. There are many papers, research and news around the climate crisis and the challenges we face. Here at envoPAP, we prefer to focus on what we can each individually do to support the environment, and more importantly, how we can benefit (financially) from it.
We asked some of our colleagues, friends and partners what they are doing to save the environment and money. A collection of some of the more practical changes they have made are summarised below.
With energy prices at record highs, reducing energy consumption has a direct impact on the bills. Turning off lights when we leave a room, unplugging electronics when they are not in use, and using energy-efficient light bulbs can all help to reduce our energy bills while also helping to save the planet.
Another simple way to live sustainably is by reducing our water usage. Fixing leaks, taking shorter showers, and using drought-resistant plants in our gardens are all ways that we can reduce our water consumption and save money on our water bills.
It’s also important to think about sustainability when making bigger purchases. When buying a new car, consider a hybrid or electric vehicle. When purchasing appliances, look for energy-efficient models. By making sustainable choices when buying that once a decade big-ticket items, we can save money in the long run whilst reducing our environmental impact.
Other simple actions that we can take to reduce our environmental impact and save money at the same time include carrying a reusable water bottle with you when you go out instead of buying bottled water, or bringing your own bags to the grocery store instead of buying disposable plastic bags. These small actions can add up to make a big financial difference.
Finally we want to share one of the most inspiring stories of sustainability. Nobel price winner Wangari Maathai was a Kenyan environmental activist who founded the Green Belt Movement, which has planted over 50 million trees. A simple act that was borne out of her belief that planting trees was a way to empower women and improve the environment. Her legacy lives on, and is a reminder that small actions by one person can make a difference and inspire change.
Living sustainably doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. By making small changes in our daily lives and being mindful of our environmental impact when making purchases, we can all contribute to a more sustainable future. So let’s take action this Spring and plant the sustainable seeds of the future. Our environment and our pockets will thank us (particularly when it is time to pay for that much enjoyed Easter holiday!)
For all of us at envoPAP, we wish you a very Happy and sustainable Easter break.
