10 things you can do
- Minimise car trips. Walk, cycle and catch public transport, especially for short trips. Service your car regularly and check tyre pressure.
- Switch your electricity to Green Power and reduce greenhouse gas emissions with electricity made from accredited and new renewable sources (wind, solar, mini hydro and biomass). Check out www.greenelectricitywatch.org.au for unbiased information.
- Install rainwater tanks and harvest your own water supply for gardens and toilet flushing
- Grow your own food. The biggest single impact you make on the environment is via our industrial food system. Start a veggie patch, plant a fruit tree and munch your way to sustainability
- Take shorter showers (aim for 3-4 minutes). Try the 'Polish' shower — great in summer. Get wet then turn off the water. Lather up then rinse off. You can still spend 20 minutes in the shower, just not with the water running!
- Become a compost convert. By using a compost system, Bokashi Bucket or worm farm you take responsibility for your own waste. Composting also helps to get the absolute best out of your veggie garden (see No. 4)
- Buy less but buy for keeps. Go for durable clothes, appliances and furniture that can be repaired. Avoid trends — appliances should last longer than this season's fashion colours!
- Recycle and encourage businesses to do the same by only purchasing products with recyclable packaging and components etc. If possible buy food in bulk — some shops even allow you to BYO containers!
- Replace your standard light bulbs with compact fluorescent models. Hang on to your old bulbs as spares though. To recycle any light globes contact Barwon Regional Waste Management Group for the latest advice.
- In winter slip into your favourite hoodie and keep the thermostat set between 18-21C. In summer, unleash the thongs, go for ceiling and desk fans but if needed set air conditioners for 24-26C. Open up at night to let the hot air out and cool air in.