News
Tuesday 19 December 2006
Changeworks' Top Ten Tips For A Sustainable Festive Season
The festive season is a time for celebration … and, almost inevitably, a spot of overindulgence. As a result, many of us will use a lot more energy (and we don’t mean during those last-minute trips to the shops) and produce a lot more waste than usual.
By following some of Changeworks’ top tips, you can have a great time over the festive period and do your bit for the environment.
Season’s greetings!
1. The presents
There are loads of solar-powered toys and cool wind-up gadgets around, so why not think about these as presents for kids - of all ages! Using re-chargeable batteries will help to reduce the number of single use batteries going to landfill and could save you money in the long-term. Charity shops can be superb places to find an unusual or individual gift for that special someone …
2. The wrapping
You’ve got the presents, so why not wrap them using smart paper gift bags or recycled wrapping paper, rather than the shiny, metallic variety? Tie up presents with funky ribbon, minimalist string or natural raffia – no sticky tape means you can save the paper and use it again.
3. The tree
Choose a living tree that can be planted out after the festive season and used again. If your tree doesn't have roots, you will be able to recycle it, in most areas, using your kerbside recycling service or you can take it to a Community Recycling Centre. Use Light Emitting Diode (LED) lights to decorate your tree and your home. They use less energy than traditional Christmas lights and last longer.
4. The cards
If you have access to a computer, why not send an electronic card to friends and family via the Internet? Visit www.wasteawarescotland.org.uk for more information about e-cards. Recycle any cards you receive through the Woodland Trust Christmas Card Recycling Scheme by taking them to Tesco, WH Smith or TKMaxx between 2 – 31 January 2007.
5. The grub
Support your local economy by shopping for your festive food at your nearest farmers’ market. Local products tend to have less packaging and are not transported long distances. Try to choose unwrapped fruit and vegetables, to cut down on unnecessary packaging.
6. The lunch
Cook with lids on pans and match ring size to saucepan size to save energy. Call FREEPHONE 0800 512 012 for energy efficiency advice. Compost your vegetable peelings, and by next Christmas, you’ll have FREE nutritious compost to help make your garden grow. Contact Changeworks on: 0131 555 4010 to find out how to get a compost bin for just £6.
7. The party
Avoid disposable plates, cutlery and napkins and use real ones instead, which reduce waste and look smart. Hire extra glasses, rather than buying new ones. Visit: www.sort-it.org.uk for details. Put leftovers in reusable containers, rather than wrapping them in foil or plastic film, and recycle your empty bottles and jars. Wait until you have a full load before using your washing machine and try to use a lower washing temperature (between 30 - 40°C).
8. The unwanted gift
Take any unwanted presents to your local charity shop. For information about your nearest shop, ask Changeworks for a FREE Edinburgh Charity Map. Outside Edinburgh, click on www.sort-it.org.uk to look up charity shops in your area.
9. The sales
Remember to take reusable bags – made of cotton or jute, or reuse old plastic bags, when you venture out to the shops. Many supermarkets now have plastic bag recycling facilities, so you can recycle bags when they are no longer fit for use.
10. The travel
Try to use public transport, where possible, when travelling during the festive season. And why not make a New Year’s Resolution to lead a more sustainable life … by booking at least one holiday in Scotland, rather than flying abroad.
To find out more contact Changeworks on 0131 555 4010 or visit the Changeworks website at: www.changeworks.org.uk
For more information please contact:
Helen Peacock
Marketing and Communications Manager
Changeworks
T: 0131 555 4010
E: hpeacock@changeworks.org.uk
www.changeworks.org.uk
Notes to Editors:
1. Changeworks exists to improve quality of life and to protect the environment. We work with passion, integrity and in collaboration to develop and deliver innovative projects and businesses in energy, waste prevention and transport that inspire and empower people and communities to make a difference.
2. CHANGEWORKS Resources for Life Ltd. is a company registered as a charity in Scotland and limited by guarantee. Charity No. SC015144. Company No. SC103904. Registered Office: 36 Newhaven Road, Edinburgh EH6 5PY. VAT Reg. No. 703521966.
