🌱 Creating new habits

We all have times when we are too busy, tired, stressed or overwhelmed and we need to choose the easiest option.

Sometimes the best option for the environment is too expensive or not available where we are, so we have to do the best we can. Some changes may need to happen over time but here are some simple changes you can make, starting today.

Did you know?

Water Water

Turning the tap off while you are cleaning your teeth

can save 10 litres of water each time Over 60% of fashion textiles are made of plastic.

Leaf Leaf

Without a microfilter

every time we wash a load of synthetic clothing we release 9 million microfibres.

Network Network

4% of global carbon emissions

are from digital compared to 2.6% from aviation and shipping combined.

Reduce your digital carbon footprint

Because computers, mobile phones and tablets don’t have exhaust pipes, we tend to forget that everything we do electronically contributes to climate change, particularly photos and videos.

Data centres use a lot of electricity and get hot so need to be cooled with fans. We can make simple changes without much effort. Send large files via links rather than as large attachments, delete unwanted files, switch to less energy-intensive search engines such as Ecosia, download music and podcasts using WIFI before going out.

Save water

Because we can usually turn on a tap and it can be very rainy at times, it is easy to forget that water is a precious resource.

A jug next to the kitchen sink is a good way of collecting water which would otherwise be wasted when we are running the tap until the water is cold and fresh to drink. This can then be used, for example, for rinsing or soaking dishes or watering plants.

Top Tips

Don’t try to make too many changes at the same time

Pick just one small habit this week, like turning the tap off while brushing your teeth. Master it before moving to the next.

Remember, one lapse does not mean you have failed

Forgot your reusable cup or left a light on? Don’t worry. Sustainability is about consistency over time, not absolute perfection.

Have fun with your changes

Turn energy saving into a friendly household game or a creative upcycling project with friends.

Share ideas with others and on our socials

Inspire your neighbours by posting your favorite green life-hacks using the Village Green tags.

Don’t give up!

Every tiny action adds up across North Yorkshire. Every single choice you make makes a tangible difference.

Reduce microplastic pollution

Tiny pieces of plastic called microplastics are one of the most significant environmental challenges of our time. They are found in even the most remote parts of the world and cause harm to human health and marine life. Microplastics are released into rivers and seas every time we wash clothing and other fabrics made of synthetic fibres. You don’t need to replace your whole wardrobe, instead you can install a microplastic filter on your washing machine.

Climate action does not need to be perfect. Pick one change that works for your life and focus on that first. Small actions repeated over time create meaningful change.