Here is a list of simple actions that can help the planet while keeping costs low.
- Turn appliances off at the socket.
- Close your curtains and blinds at night.
- Buy thermal curtains or line your own curtains.
- Use radiator reflectors which reflect heat back into the room.
- Buy an electric blanket or electric pad to heat up people rather than the whole room.
In the kitchen
- Use ‘eco’ mode on dishwashers and washing machines.
- Make sure that your appliances are full before use.
- Turn down the heat on your washing machine.
- Dry your clothes outside or on a heated airer rather than using a dryer.
- Only boil as much water as you need in the kettle.
- Use a lid to cover pots and pans as the water will boil faster and use less energy to heat your food.
- Try to batch cook when possible and freeze the leftovers.
- Consider using an air fryer, these are cost and energy efficient.
- When buying new appliances try and get the highest energy efficiency rated product that you can afford.
In the bedroom
- Leave a gap between your radiators and your furniture to allow the heat to circulate better rather than heating your furniture.
- Add extra blankets or duvets onto your bed.
- Close your curtains when the sun sets to keep the heat inside of your room.
- Use draught proof tape around your windows and doors.
- Use a draught excluder for your doors (or a rolled-up towel).
- Consider getting double glazing for your windows.
In the bathroom
- Try to take shorter showers.
- Turn off the tap when you are brushing your teeth.
- Take fewer baths.
- Try some water saving devices such as low flow tap fittings to use less water and energy.
- Swap to an energy efficient shower head.
- Install an electric towel rail which can be turned on and off.
- Clean glass surfaces with white wine vinegar rather than chemical sprays.
Refill shops in Gloucestershire
Refill shops are a great way to reduce plastic packaging and reduce the amount of waste going to landfill. It is a more sustainable way to buy cupboard essentials and more. Here are some places where refill shops can be found in Gloucestershire.
