something for the weekend...... 35 ideas for actions
If you missed the orignal 'something for the weekend ... action' posts on social media last year here's another chance -
they are good ideas for any day of the week.
'Something for the weekend ... ' is a series of actions that gave ideas on how we can all do one small thing starting over the weekend that would help us reduce our waste through for example refuse, reuse actions plus making your lives more sustainable through things like choosing green energy, not buying new and much more.
DOWNLOAD ACTIONS
Take a look below for all the actios and click the link to download the information for each action.
Action #1: A 2 minute challenge, to challenge!
Action #2: Be prepared, switch that cup!
Action#3: Use your vote!
Action #4: Make do and mend.
Action #5: Inspire and be inspired; get involved, volunteer!
Action #6: Pre-empt, pack and pick up.
Action #7: Don’t panic; don’t be alone; do share and do what you can.
Action #8: Grow your own naked cucumber....and more!
Action #9: Use your existing waste to reduce your future waste!
Action #10: Get on your bike!
Action #11: Wastebust your water.
Action #12: Just pick it up.
Action #13: Celebrate and encourage.
Action #14: Stop cleaning fish to death.
Action #15: Batteries and more: be kerbside ready.
Action #16: Reduce harmful waste in our indoor air.
Action #17: Sharing the load; show NO DIFFERENCE.
Action #18: Keep pushing for change to plug the plastic source.
Action #19: Ditch the plastic water bombs.
Action #20: Review and Recycle right.
Action #21: Put the date in your diary - join us on SUNDAY 29th SEPTEMBER from 11am - 4pm.
Action #22: Think about lunch boxes.
Action #23: Take part in second hand September; and beyond.
Action #24: ❤ your old bags.
Action #25: Getting your workplace greener.
Action #26: Help us to help you and the wider community. Spread the word about the Eco Fayre.
Action #27: What to do about white goods.
Action #28: Avoid sending textiles to landfill.
Action #29: Styrofoam swaps and more. Tackling the takeaway container.
Action #30: Home growing from food waste and more.
Action #32: Review your food waste.
Action #33: Time for tea - like they used to.
Action #34: Keep the cold out and (green) energy in.
Action #35: Keep going. Keep wastebusting.
READ THE ACTIONS
Something for the weekend…..action #1: A 2 minute challenge, to challenge!
The impact of political mass cannot be ignored. But you don’t always have to wait on a group or party; challenging the norm does not mean face to face confrontation or expertly prepared emails. You, as an individual, have the power to influence change; and even the busiest of us CAN make the time.
If you are reading this post, you have a sense of passion for change. You are already on Facebook. You have the freedom to comment. In the time it takes to scroll through your newsfeed after reading this post to find a next point of interest, or made a comment on it, you could have clicked ‘Message’ on your local supermarket Facebook page, written your concerns relating to their environmental impact and SENT! BOOM - DONE!
This might seem like a small gesture - but there are over 300 of us in this Group now. Imagine if Aldi received that many messages just from us this weekend? What if every chain supermarket on the Grove heard from each of us? It doesn’t have to be long, just a few sentences to voice your point or ask your question.
Let us know who you message - what was their reply? Is it what you expected? What could your next step be?
Something for the weekend…..action #2: Be prepared, switch that cup!
There are an abundance of reusable cups, flasks and similar vessels available to buy in shops and cafes on our very own highstreet.
Some cafes offer a small discount, to encourage people to bring in their own cup.
So all we need to do is be prepared and remember to take ours with us when we walk out our front door - even if you don't plan to get a take away drink. You might change your mind!
However, what if you end up stopping somewhere for a drink that doesn't actively encourage the same positive action?
Some of us may enjoy this opportunity to ask, inspire and promote better habits. But what if you don't feel as confident asking staff to use your own cup? Do you suddenly feel self conscious, anxious; not wanting to cause a fuss or worry about the staff reaction to your (albeit positively proactive) request?
Then close your eyes, take a breath and remind yourself of this:
The myth:
We all know the score about plastic and polystyrene cups....and we have posted recently about those made of 'compostable' material...but...did you realise the idea that all paper cups will safely biodegrade or be recycled is not necessarily true.
Most paper coffee cups are coated with a plastic resin for durability; and unless washed, will be contaminated with whatever beverage they were used for. Therefore they cannot be separated out in a standard recycling mill. Only two factories in the UK currently have this separating facility.*
So an exceptionally small proportion of 'paper' cup recycling actually goes on. Approx 1 in 400, in fact.**
The figures:
"In 2011, a Which? Report found that 2.5 billion disposable coffee cups are used each year in the UK. However, as the coffee shop industry has grown considerably since then, this figure is likely to be an underestimate of usage now. Based on the estimate that the UK currently uses 2.5 billion disposable cups, by 2025 coffee shop growth will see the UK using approximately 3.75 billion disposable cups per year. However, Eunomia Research and Consulting have suggested that the UK may already use as many as 5 billion coffee cups per year."**
So. If we all share the same habit - we won't feel singled out; using our own reusable cup will be the norm; and our environment will be free of millions of single use cups each doing their little bit of damage.
Share your pics with us; dare to ask - what was the reply? Is it what you expected? What could your next step be to reduce and reuse?
*www.reusablecups.co.uk
**House of Commons Environmental Audit Committee - Disposable Packaging: Coffee Cups, Second Report of Session 2017–19
Something for the weekend….action#3: use your vote!
Hopefully you are all aware of upcoming local elections and have registered to vote. The day to cast your vote is Thursday 2nd May. Nominations details can be found here:
https://www.poole.gov.uk/…/bournemouth-christchurch-and-po…/
The ward you live in is named on your Poll card.
Given the current climate in politics, it is understandable some people may feel a degree of apathy, questioning why they should even bother voting.
However, we are privileged enough to have the right, so why not give it a whirl. No matter what your usual political stance may be, we are united by 1 crucial matter in this Group - our environment.
So take a look at the views, actions and proposals of the 2019 candidates. How do they relate to the environmental issues you care about?
Maybe list your top 3 issues of concern and see how the candidates compare - if you can't find the answer you are looking for, why not send them a quick email?
See Southbourne Forum for local campaign details.
We would be interested to hear what your lists are, to assist with the development of Sobo Wastebusters; and help us to help you address what matters most. Drop us a post below!
My top 3 local environmental issues:
+Support to reduce domestic and commercial waste
+Enable investment into sustainable energy
+Education to support and encourage inclusive community action against climate change.
Something for the weekend…..action #4: Make do and mend
"The average household in the UK produces more than a tonne of waste every
year. Put together, this comes to a total of 31 million tonnes per year, equivalent
to the weight of three and a half million double-decker buses, a queue of which
would go around the world two and a half times."
We have finally made it through the winter to spring. In the haste to adapt to the onset of warmer weather, let's not be tempted to rush out to the shops just yet....for clothes, shoes, accessories....for gardening tools, plants and furniture....new bikes, camping gear, outdoor games and sports equipment.....
And if a traditional spring clean takes your fancy...hold off reaching for the bin or going to tip. Instead, perhaps:
1. Take stock: what do you have already? Do you really need to buy new items? Can a bit more life be squeezed out of what you do have? Can you make do?
2. Get fixing: so you realise you have what you need afterall, but it's not working so well, if at all. Can Google or YouTube help you learn how to fix it safely? Do you know someone who might have the skill and be able to teach you? Can you access a course or workshop? Could you contact Bournemouth Repair Cafe for some help and take your items along to the next session?
3. Seek a service to mend: we are so lucky to have such a varied, knowledgeable and skilled selection of local repair services. Tailoring & Vintage Bournemouth have worked wonders on our coats, rucksacks, clothes and even sleeping bags; Grove Services have extended the life of my sandals and boots; JC Fry and Sons sorted out some headphones; Velo Domestique have kept my bike ticking over....then the Treasure House and Southbourne General Store have offered helpful advice and a selection of replacement parts and tools for DIY jobs, from stitching to gluing and stain removing. The list goes on....a quick search on SoBO for a range of local trades will confirm this! Feel free to post details of more you would recommend in the comments.
4. Pass it on: If you have no need for something that has more life in it, or potential to be fixed or upcycled by someone else, post details on Sobo Recycle or The Freecycle Network.
5. Recycle: If your items really have come to the end of their life, find out if there is a local recycling point - take a look at on the Sobo Wastebusters website, Millhams Recycling, RecycleNow or post in the Sobo Wastebusters Group for some ideas and advice.
6. Dispose responsibly: So all other options have been exhausted. Time to consult Millhams Tip.
And where to get a replacement? Still, before you go to the shops....
* can you borrow?
* can you buy second hand from a local shop or buy/sell group?
Something for the weekend…..action #5: Inspire and be inspired; get involved, volunteer!
We are a small team volunteering our time. Outside of Sobo Wastebusters we have busy lives, juggling family and work commitments, whilst spinning various other plates. But we do what we can, when we can, because....well, we need to!
Our journeys have collided through passion for our planet; caring for our community; and concern for the future of all on Earth - for humanity and beyond.
We hope our work so far has provided you with inspiration and motivation; to adapt and change habits for the greater good of our environment.
Are you fishing recyclables out of bins yet?! Do you despair at the news of more and more negative consequences of climate change? Do you cry after watching Blue Planet? Are you infuriated or saddened (or both) by resistance to change? Do you seek comfort and camaraderie from others who feel the same? Can you lead by example? Do you have a burning desire to do more, but are not sure how?
Volunteer.
An hour, a day; as a one off, weekly, monthly or ad hoc. From home, online, in person. It can work (we are proof of that!) and the benefits can be immense.
There are so many local projects who depend on volunteers to keep them running. Be one of them! Here are a few to consider contacting:
Ideas2Action (delivering Win on Waste)
Dorset Devils
Leaveonlyfootprints_LOF
Plastic Free Bournemouth
Grounded Enterprises
Boscombe Community Fridge
Bournemouth Repair Cafe
Extinction Rebellion Bournemouth and Dorset
You may also like to get in touch with Transition Bournemouth and Bournemouth and Poole CVS to explore opportunities http://www.bournemouthcvs.org.uk/index.asp
Or maybe volunteer as a sustainability champion in your place of work, study and/or in your household? Can you help challenge the carbon footprint? Facilitate more effective waste management? Research sustainable swaps?
If you are running project and are looking for volunteers at the moment, feel free to comment and share details below.
Go, get inspired. And inspire others. Together we can make a difference.
People power. 🙌💚🌍
Something for the weekend…..action #6: Pre-empt, pack and pick up
Give this a go - leave it by your front door as a reminder to take with you on your way out. Even if you don't plan to grab a drink on the go or do some shopping!! The plan might change!
1 - Hot/cold drinks container for water....impromptu coffee stop? Down the water and fill up with the hot stuff. That's 1 less single use water bottle and 1 less single use coffee cup you will avoid circulating.
2 - Fed up with the sight of litter around you? Old gardening glove and empty cereal bag to do a 2 minute litter pick (see what I got in the park my children were playing in?). Place items in bin/recycling when you get home. Rinse out cereal bag and re-use or place in a carrier bag recycling point.
3 - Roll it all up in a canvas bag, with another squeezed in just in case and place in your main bag. It doesn't take up much room, does it? And that is potentially 3 plastic bags you will avoid picking up on your trip out.
4 - The power of positive role modelling. Don't moan about what you see; use that energy to drive positive change. Could your actions above inspire 4 other people to follow?
Lead by example. Lead for habitual change (not climate change).
Something for the weekend.....Action #7: Don’t panic; don’t be alone; do share and do what you can
If you are not already aware, this is #mentalhealthawarenessweek. What’s mental health got to do with waste reduction and climate change, I hear you say?
Eco-anxiety.
Yes, it is a thing. Psychology Today define this as “a fairly recent psychological disorder afflicting an increasing number of individuals who worry about the environmental crisis”. There was also a great show on Radio 4 about it. Do listen if you can.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m00050qr
You are in this Group because you care; and those that care hear we should panic and fear the reality of climate change. But does this panic and fear fuel your passion and drive to make a difference? Or does it leave you feeling like a rabbit in the headlights, blinded and paralysed by the sheer magnitude of the issue?
Or maybe a bit of both; as if the steps you have already taken fall into insignificance as our fellow humans across the globe bear the brunt of the increasing frequency of 'natural' disasters; of waters bulging and swelling with plastic; of dry, baron lands that no longer flourish with the natural presence of water that once supported thriving and diverse communities of people and wildlife alike.
We agree, it is a terrifying situation. We feel that sense of urgency and powerlessness at the same time.
The key being WE. Not I. Not YOU.
WE are ALL responsible; at this stage of our human existence, there is so much positive action that can be (and is being) taken. But to be productive on this journey of sustainability, WE must work TOGETHER. And not just on the practical stuff. We must show care and compassion towards each other, too.
The phenomenal Extinction Rebellion cite ‘The Skill of Brokenheartedness in the wake of XR’; providing support “for those of you stirred, bereft, lost, angry, longing, unsettled, heartbroken, raw, unsure” through unified expression and simply being ‘present’.'
This holistic approach should be favoured by us all. Here in this Group, please enjoy the benefits of being around others who maybe feeling a range of thoughts and emotions described above. Let us not judge. Let us not fear of being judged. It is not a competition; to be so will only compound the sense of anxiety, helplessness and isolation some of us may be experiencing. We are all striving for the same thing. Keep doing what you can, when you can; you are wonderful!
Please feel free to share thoughts and feelings with us in the comments below, especially any coping strategies or tips you have found helpful in your journey. You are in good company.
But of course, we are not experts and if you are experiencing concerns relating to your mental health, please do consider speaking to your GP. Anxiety is a condition that affects 1 in 10 of us; there is help available. You can also self-refer to Steps2Wellbeing or find further information and advice through organisations such as Rethink Mental Illness and Anxiety UK (official). Keep well. Keep safe. Keep striving for change.
Something for the weekend.....Action #8: Grow your own naked cucumber....and more!
We have posted a few hints and tips over the last few months about growing your own veg; even some guerilla gardening to bring those neglected patches into bloom. Have you been joining in?
If you have been thinking about it, get a wiggle on, before the summer hits us! You still have time to sow seeds to grow your own naked cucumbers.....radishes, beetroot, fennel, chicory, peas.....
🥒🥒🥒🥒🥒🥒🥒🥒🥒🥒🥒🥒🥒🥒🥒🥒
🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅
In fact, courgettes and tomatoes are mostly imported, so if you eat a lot of these, you can definately reduce your carbon footprint by growing your own! Take a look at the BBC climate change food tracker for more info.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-46459714
3 lots of celery have been sprouted and planted out...with another and a trial leak to follow! No seeds were required; the root ends were simply left to stand in a shallow pot of water until new leaves sprouted out the top. Growing on a budget.........✔✔✔✔
Of course, a garden is a luxury and if only have a small outside space, just choose a couple of items you tend to eat lots of and use a couple of pots. This Wastebuster household gets through a lot of carrots, so a couple of super large and deep pots are housing some carrot seeds which are coming along nicely.🥕🥕🥕🥕🥕🥕🥕
☀️If you don't have any outside space, why not take advantage of a sunny window sill? The nasturtians seem to like it here. Basil and corriander to follow.....☀️
Or why not get involved with some communal gardening with other residents if you share a garden....consider an allotment; or find out if there is a community garden nearby where you could lend a hand in exchange for some fresh veg.
Whatever your involvement, just get involved! After all, there are many advantages to growing your own:
⛟ Cut down emissions otherwise released during transportation of produce
⬇️ Reduce pesticides released into the environment by growing organically
❌ Eliminate excess packaging waste
💪 Get some physical exercise
💚 Nurture your mind as well as your crop
😋 It tastes good!
And while you're at it - consider composting if you can! Did you know BCP Council offer subsidised composters? See here for details. https://www.bournemouth.gov.uk/…/GetStartedWithHomeComposti…
If anyone has any hints, tips, seeds to swap, seedlings to give away or photos to show your progress - do share details below!!
Happy growing, happy Wastebusting!
🌻🍏🍐🍓🍅🍆🥔🍒🥜🥕🌽🌶🥒🥦🌻
Something for the weekend.....Action #9: Use your existing waste to reduce your future waste!
There is a lot of pressure these days to conform to a 'plastic free pantry' with neatly arranged glass jars; to have chintzy fabric alternatives to plastic bags, sponges and wipes laid stylishly in wicker baskets; and funky food and drink containers. And if you have young children, let's not forget cloth nappies, wipes and bamboo everything (!). Oh, and 'family cloth'.
Fine, if you have the disposable income to buy into this marketing trend. But let's not forget those 3 words, our mantra: refuse, reuse, recycle.
With a focus on REUSE.
With such intense marketing coupled with the urgency to change our consumer habits, it would be understandable if you were feeling overwhelmed about buying the right 'reuseable' gear to be totally plastic free as of yesterday. And hugely guilty if you don't have the practical means to follow suit. Either way, this is an unrealistic goal and could be holding you back on your journey to reducing waste and making you buy more stuff.
So let us take a moment to reflect on all the reusable items we may already have at home and get thrifty. But not for financial gain, actually. To REFUSE the marketing of what we should have; to REDUCE our single use waste - whether it is going in the bin, to someone else or off into the faraway land of recycling. Let's REUSE.
Keep old towels, flannels, tea towels can all be cut up and used to create wipes. For personal care like make up and baby wipes; but also for household cleaning.
🛏Grab those holey unwanted sheets and duvet covers - make a Morsbag with some help from Morsbags Sociable Guerilla Bagging!
♻️Keep used food and drink containers - jars, tubs, bags, bottles and re-fill with unpackaged produce and products. From washing up and laundry liquid at Earth Foods; loose leaf tea from That Brilliant Store; orange juice from TD Fruits; coffee from Velo Domestique; deli items from Deli Rocks Southbourne Bournemouth; shampoo bars from Live Kindly Eco Shop; pasta, grains, pulses, dried herbs dried fruit, soap nuts and lots more from Sunrise Organics - Vegan Health Store or Almond&Co. Bournemouth
.....you can even use tubs and bag type packaging from salad and frozen veg as a wet bag for cloth nappies, sanitary towels and wipes.
❄.....PLUS use tubs and jars to store leftovers in the fridge or freezer.....and to transport food on the go. Who needs a fancy lunch box?!
🍶 Do your plastic tumblers and water bottles really need replacing yet? Is there more life left or are you just eager to get the plastic stuff out of your house? Can you just be patient and use up that box of plastic straws? They may otherwise disappear from your kitchen, but they will still be very present on our planet.
👶Visit your local nappy library through Dorset Cloth Nappy Library & Community to find out about borrowing and buying second hand
Is there really any need to discard part used bottles of shampoo, toothbrushes that have plenty of life left etc etc.
You get the idea. Once you start thinking about it, this little audit of what you do have, may well vastly outweigh what you need.
And if you really truly don't have what you need, why not borrow or re-home items that may otherwise be discarded by friends, family, colleagues... even local neighbours. Pop onto Sobo Recycle with your request. We anticipate you will get a helpful response.
Living more sustainably is not just about changing products; it is a change in lifestyle. It is challenging at times, perhaps near on impossible, but don't panic if you can't be consistent. It doesn't have to be all or nothing.
By using just 1 cloth nappy a day, you could save 900 of the 5000 disposables it is estimated a child gets through.
1 less water bottle = 1000 less pieces of micro plastic added to the environment.
So.....be challenged but don't feel defeated. Keep going. Repeated positive steps result in positive habit changes. But you don't have to do it all at once.
In the end, you may not have a Pinterest perfect storage cupboards and a range of bold and funky prints on display at home or on your travels. But by using what you've got, or what others don't want, you have REFUSED, REDUCED and REUSED. And for that, we (and our planet) thank you. 👏💚🌍♻️🙏
Something for the weekend…..Action #10: Get on your bike!
To work; to school; to the shops; for pleasure, as a sport; or just, well, because:
In summary, cycling:
💚 is a zero-carbon method of transport
☑️ is low cost
🙂 will improve your mental health and wellbeing
🚴♀️ will improve your cardiovascular fitness
💓 promotes weight loss
🙌 is fun and sociable
😲 cuts out the time, cost and stress of driving and parking a car!
So, how about it then? Can you start cycling instead of getting the car? Could you cycle more? What is stopping you - can you overcome it?
We are fortunate to have the wonderful Velo Domestique on our highstreet, who will helpfully assist with keeping your bicycle in shape; or if you don’t have one, finding one that is right for you (new, custom built or second hand; hybrid, road, mountain, cargo, electric - all you need to do is set your budget!).
If you are a bit further down the road, don’t forget Bournemouth Cycleworks.
The cycle hire scheme through Beryl is rolling out from Bournemouth town centre too.
Also note the Kings Cycle Centre, hosting kids cycling courses (over 10s), adult cycling courses and bike maintenance workshops. via BCP Council. You might also want to link in with the Bournemouth Cycle Forum, for news, events and opportunities to get involved with improving cycling facilities across Bournemouth.
If you feel a bit nervous getting on your bike, why not pair up with someone who feels more confident, for tips, encouragement and reassurance? Or visit Sustrans for advice and guidance.
On Saturday 8th June, there will be a gentle evening cycle from Boscombe Pier https://www.cyclinguk.org/event/bike-week-boscombe-pier-hengistbury-head-sunset-ride
Or consider a cycling social organised by Velo Domestique. If you would like to cycle more in a sporting capacity, there are plenty of clubs about such as Bournemouth Jubilee Wheelers. Please feel free to drop details of others in the comments.
Whatever your destination, let’s continue our journey fighting climate change together. On our bikes!
#climatechange
#commitmenttocycling
#bikeweek2019
Something for the weekend.....Action #11: Wastebust your water
My own child informed me this week:
💧 each of us, on average, get through 80 litres of water a day
💧 having a shower for 5 minutes will still use significantly less water than your average bath
( Waterwise paid a visit to the school!)
It feels like it has been raining all week, so saving water may be far from the forefront of your mind. But according to Wessex Water, in 2018, demand for water soared by 20% in our region when temperatures were their highest; yet between May and October we only saw 60% of what would be expected for the time of year.
With rising summer temperatures predicted owing to climate change, conserving water will be high on the agenda for water suppliers; and it should be on ours, as individuals, too.
A major source of emissions is from using hot water within homes. Reducing the time you shower or the amount of hot water you use for cleaning dishes therefore has a significant impact on your personal carbon footprint (Waterwise).
So, if you haven't already, wouldn't this have been a great week to have a water butt to collect our precious resource? Plants and pond life prefer it. If you don't already have one but have outdoor storage space, BCP Council offer water butts at a subsidised rate, see here for more information. https://getcomposting.com/profile/login.
Here are some other water wastebusting tips:
🖼 GARDEN
Always water garden plants in the early mornings or evenings when it is cooler so less is lost to evaporation.
Put saucers under plant containers to catch run off.
Choose plants that thrive in dry conditions - lavender, rosemary, lemon thyme and common sage are good examples of those you can also use in cooking, saving on unnecessary packaging too!
🍽 KITCHEN
Only wash a full load in your dishwasher and/or washing machine.
Only fill the kettle with the water you will use for that cuppa!
Reduce the amount of meat you cook (if applicable!); 15,415 litres of water are required to produce 1 kg of beef. Only 322 litres of water are required to grow 1 kg of vegetables or 650 litres of water per 1 kg of wheat.
🛀 BATHROOM
Take the 4 minute challenge for shower times; or reduce your bath by an inch of water.
Don't be tempted to leave the tap running while you brush your teeth or lather soap up on your hands (how did we get into that habit?! Thank you Southbourne Library for pointing out the handwashing fact, as photographed).
Check your loo - 30% of household water usage is from flushing alone! Install a Cistern Displacement Device if you don't have a dual flush - often FREE from water suppliers.
These are small examples that can make a big difference; you will contribute to:
🌳 Making more water available for the natural environment
⬇️ Reducing energy used in treating water
✅ Creating less carbon emissions created from treating and transporting water.
(Wessex Water)
There are plenty more options, depending on your circumstances. Feel free to share tried and tested examples in the comments. Let's continue to learn from each other.
Something for the weekend.....Action #12: Just pick it up
Litter. It is irritating and disappointing to see it flying about. It is infuriating and disheartening to witness someone purposefully dropping it. However, moaning about litter will not make it disappear (nor will the wind).
The Great British Spring Clean - now the country's biggest mass-action environmental campaign - was organised by the charity Keep Britain Tidy this year. There were 17,097 clean-ups; and 957,377 bags of litter collected. This involved people donating 1.1 million hours litter picking. But what a result.
We are fortunate to have passionate community driven groups like Dorset Devils and Leaveonlyfootprints_LOF who organise local litter picks. But what if you are unable to join them? What about the litter lying around in the time in between them? What about the areas they don't cover?
So why wait until someone else organises one? If you see a plastic bag flying past you, grab it. If you hear a can rolling across the path, pick it up. Remove that crisp packet sitting in the bush (and take it to Win on Waste....♻️).
Whether you pick up 1 item or a bin bag full, your efforts will make a difference by:
🦊🐀🦔🐇🐕
1. Removing items that could endanger wildlife - RSPCA are responding to 1,500 calls about litter-related incidents affecting animals every year (KBT)
⚠️☢🤢👎❌⬇️
2. Lessen the amount of waste degrading and toxins absorbed into the earth, foliage and ground water.
🌊🏞😍🌱🌳🌿
3. Maintain the natural beauty of our area.
💁♂️💁♀️👍🤜🤛✅
4. Inspire others to do the same, resulting in more litter being disposed of appropriately.
👀💚💬💭🚮♻️
5. Influence those who are less environmentally aware and cultivate a more caring culture.
You can then also take a few moments to bathe in feeling good about yourself. You have done an awesome thing 🙌.
The Wastebusters crew will be out and about, in and around Southbourne on Monday (24th June), individually, doing a mini litter pick, as we often do. We invite you to join us in spirit and take the same action - on your way to work or college; the school run; on your break.....whenever you can. Take some before and after pics; what did you find? Was it your first litter pick - what was it like? Share your photos and experience with us!!
The start of a great Sobo litter pick?!! (To be continued.....)
.
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❗Picking up litter can be done any time, any place, to an extent - but be sensible. Don't pick up any sharp objects without appropriate equipment or forage around undergrowth without appropriate gloves and/or a litter grabber....there could be glass, needles or other hazardous items lurking. Just saying.
Something for the weekend.....Action #13: Celebrate and encourage
SOBO Wastebusters met up with Dorset and Hampshire Eco Club this week. It is always wonderful to meet others striving to take such positive action; it provides space to share and encourage; celebrate what we are doing; and recharge our ambitions when energy levels feel a little depleted.
We are after all, every day folk who just want to do good for the future of our people and planet. Support and encouragement is crucial to the success of this kind of work. Constantly pushing boundaries, challenging fixed, uncompromising views and misinformation; sometimes it can feel slow and tiresome, futile even.
This weekend, why not take a moment to acknowledge what / who motivates and inspires you to do the same?
There are 2 upcoming award ceremonies celebrating the work of individuals and groups in the community who are making efforts to recycle more and go plastic free:
1. Organised by Ideas2Action, the Recycling Awards take place on Friday 27 September at 7pm in Poole Civic Centre. If you know of any individuals of any age, teams of people, schools or organisations (voluntary, statutory and private) who you feel go the extra mile when it comes to recycling, please consider nominating them (with their permission). You can of course nominate yourselves! If you do decide to submit a nomination (forms available on the website), it really helps the judges if you can give us as much information as possible about your nominee and why you think they deserve an award for their recycling. http://www.ideas2action.org.uk
2. Plastic Free Awards:
Organised by Surfers Against Sewage and held in Bristol in November 2019; this event is celebrating the efforts of those making the biggest contributions to stopping plastic pollution. From local community champions, innovators, campaigners and other leaders across the UK. There are multiple categories - from 'Plastic Free Hero' to 'Plastic production re-innovation'. For more information, visit https://pfa.pixedo.co.uk/.
So who might you nominate? Or who would you simply like to mention, to acknowledge the contributions they make? Tell us about them!
And a big shout out to all those we are fortunate enough to be working alongside (you know who you are 😉).
To everyone who takes an interest in what Sobo Wastebusters do - keep doing what you're doing; however big or small. Set goals and strive to do better; but be realistic and give yourselves and others a pat on the back now and again. Big love. 💚🙌
Something for the weekend.....Action #14: Stop cleaning fish to death
How clean is your house? Sparkling? Or homely and just fine...until you disturb the dust? 😂
Cleaning is not always a priority and we all have different standards. However most of us do it at some point. But products you may consider your friend in this task may well be foe to our environment - packaging and ingredients alike. They both biodegrade, polluting water and all aquatic life within it - consequently entering the food chain.....and so it continues.....to us.
There are many products claiming to be 'eco friendly' as part of the green marketing trend. Ask yourself - just how safe are they? What exactly are the ingredients and are they from a sustainable source? Are they made in the UK or shipped from overseas? What research are these claims based on? What packaging are they sold in - can it be recycled? Are you duplicating what you need - do you really need a separate bathroom and kitchen cleaner? Does our toilet really need to be clean enough to eat our dinner from?!
Non toxic, homemade cleaning recipes seem to be saturating TV and social media streams with the best of intentions. Sadly the advice can often be inaccurate; and mixing chemicals, even as seemingly harmless as vinegar and bicarb should not be done. The chemical reactions could be a hazard to our health and/ or negate the efficacy of the product you end up with. So just as you think you're winning, you are (perhaps unknowingly) losing 😔.
However, the principle of going back to basics is a good one👍.
😁Therefore you might like to consider the following items as one stop alternatives:
✅ White vinegar (a daily go to, consider investing in a 5L bottle of it, available at the Southbourne General Store. Yes it is plastic, but this can be recycled).
✅ Bicarbonate of soda (has a multitude of uses, invest in a large box of it, also available at Southbourne General Store and Wilko. It is in cardboard packaging).
✅ Citric acid (sounds harsher than it is - equivalent of what you find in citrus fruits - and is in cardboard packaging. Works wonders on limescale and can be mixed up into a spray as an alternative to using white vinegar as an all purpose cleaner. Also avavailable from Southbourne General Store and Wilko. Did we say it was in cardboard packaging? Winning).
✅ Household soap (nifty little stain remover this one; sold as a bar in NO PACKAGING!!!!!! - from Southbourne General Store. Have a lie down if you need to).
✅ Liquid soap (pure and simple and can be diluted to make all sorts; from a handwash, to laundry and floor cleaner. Available from Southbourne General Store and Wilko. Sorry - this is in a plastic bottle...but it can be recycled).
✅ Soda Crystal's (another versatile alternative to items such as bleach and oven cleaners. Available from Southbourne General Store and Wilko. The packaging cannot be recycled at this stage, but the manufacturer is trialling other materials...fingers x).
Now what to do with the above? We are not scientific cleaning experts; so please do not ask us for such advice. But let us inform you of the following sources of safe, reliable, information and guidance:
https://www.dri-pak.co.uk
https://www.robertdyas.co.uk/blog/42-easy-cleaning-tips
We hope this post inspires you to consider alternative options for cleaning and the like. If you're still not sure, check out this article:
https://www.dri-pak.co.uk/how-do-you-clean-your-loo/
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♻️Remember - reduce, reuse and recycle♻️
Please don't just ditch what you have already. Pouring it down the sink won't make it disappear! Use it up, then make the swap, if this is what you decide to do - and hang onto any spray / squirty bottles and large jars to decant ingredients into!
Something for the weekend.....Action #15: Batteries and more: be kerbside ready
❌It is not okay to chuck batteries in the bin.❌
Batteries contain chemicals including lead, cadmium, zinc, lithium and mercury.
Once in landfill, toxic chemicals leak into the ground. Both soil and water become contaminated, which is harmful to wildlife and humans.
So really, please don't do it. Not even a single teeny tiny one.
According to Let's Recycle, the UK's approx recycling rate of batteries was 44% last year. That is a lot of batteries left out. We, as consumers, need to play our part.
So if you have a collection of HOUSEHOLD* batteries sitting around (AA, AAA, button and rechargeable batteries etc), disposing of them safely is easier than you think:
1. If you live in Bournemouth, simply bag the batteries up and leave them on top of your recycling bin. Label if not clear. Yes, they will be collected from your doorstep!
2. Pop them to a local collection point - at Southbourne Library or Beaufort Community Centre - in fact most supermarkets and larger chain stores such as Boots host one if you live further afield.
That's it. Job done. Almost....
⚠️ Next time you go to buy a product requiring batteries, consider:
🤷♀️🤷♂️ Do I really need this product? Would another item suffice (particularly when it comes to kids toys).
✅✅ Is there an alternative option which is mains, solar powered or fitted with a winding mechanism? (from fairy lights, bicycle lights and torches; to portable radios).
♻️♻️ If neither of the above are feasible, invest in rechargeable batteries.
*for advice about disposing of other types of battery, see https://www.recyclenow.com/what-to-do-with/batteries-1.
Did you also know in Bournemouth the following SMALL electrical items are included in kerbside collections:
• Small kitchen appliances – kettles, sandwich makers, electric scales
• Small living room equipment – clocks, telephone and answering machines
• Small domestic equipment – irons, smoke alarms, heat detectors
• Personal care equipment – rechargeable electric toothbrushes (excluding battery powered), shavers, hair dryers, razors
• Small DIY/garden tools – drills and sanders
• Gadgets - cameras, mp3 players and mobiles
• Electrical wire/extension leads
Again, just leave them on top of your recycling bin on your allocated collection day. For more info see https://www.bournemouth.gov.uk/…/RecyclingElectricalGadgets…
Of course, if you have one of the above items that still works, pop in on Sobo recycle if it doesn't work, consider taking it along to the next Bournemouth Repair Cafe to see if it can be revived....with the next one coming up on Saturday 20th July…..💚♻️💪🤞
Something for the weekend....Action #16: Reduce harmful waste in our indoor air
Air pollution. Mostly talked about in the context of the air we breath outside. For example, traffic emissions. Defra state 'Petrol and diesel-engined motor vehicles emit a wide variety of pollutants, principally carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx), volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter (PM10), which have an increasing impact on urban air quality.'
But what is going on inside your home? Particularly when you reach for some 'ocean breeze', 'fresh cotton' or 'citrus fizz' to 'cleanse' the air of less pleasant odours - via a spritz of air freshener or scented candle? Well typically, most commercially produced, synthetic scented products contain VOCs too - some benzene, formaldehyde, propellants, solvents, benzenes, and synthetic musks, among others. These chemicals can be easily inhaled; land on the skin and be absorbed; or even accidentally ingested.
Not so appealing, eh? The waste products released into our homes are harmful to our physical health; and the often excessive, non recyclable packaging becomes another contributor to household waste, which is harmful to our environment.
So what are the alternatives? Firstly, simply open the window.
If preferred, perhaps also consider:
💚 the humble deodourising power of bicarbonate of soda.
Just pour some in a small dish and place discreetly to absorb odours - in the loo, even in the fridge! Add the ashes of incense (waste not!) or some scented oil for a delicate aroma. You could even use bits of old tights to contain measures of bicarb and hang in wardrobes, cupboards, drawers, shoes etc; sprinkle on carpets, leave overnight, then vacuum, to freshen them up. Large, cardboard boxes of it are sold in Southbourne General Store.
🍋 the natural fresh and zesty scent of a real lemon infused in vinegar or water.
Chop lemons, place in jar, pour over boiled or distilled water with/ without white vinegar; stew, strain and decant into spray bottle. Net free lemons from TD Fruits.
🌿 the refreshing powers of rosemary.
Fill spray bottle with cooled, boiled or distilled water and add drops of rosemary essential oil. Or infuse some fresh rosemary in boiled water, strain and decant into a bottle. Essential oils can be found in Earth Foodss.
🕯'clean' burning of a natural beeswax or soy wax candle made with essential oils. Southbourne's very own Nellie Mimosa still lives on - find them online!
🌿 bunches of dried herbs such as lavender and rosemary dotted around the home. Place in an upcycled container. Anyone have any cuttings going spare from their garden?
🌱 houseplants including Aloe Vera, Snake plant (Mother in Laws Tongue), spider plants and English Ivy, play a part in absorbing toxins and purifying the air inside our homes. Pop along to Stewarts Garden Centres (who also provide a plastic pot recycling scheme).
There are plenty of simple, non toxic recipes online. But why not share some tried and tested air cleansing solutions in the comments below - and inspire someone to reach for a less wasteful alternative, for their health, your health and our planet. 🌎
Something for the weekend....Action #17: Sharing the load; show NO DIFFERENCE
This weekend is the Southbourne Revival event. Reliant on volunteers, this is about community fun and enjoyment. It is not for them, it is for US ALL.
Community events are wonderful; it brings people together and helps tackle loneliness and isolation. But for the logistics to work, we all need to pull together, where we can - for the fun and the less desirable but necessary tasks that enable it to happen.
An increasing number of photos appear to be doing the rounds on social media, showing before and after pictures of events; some are horrifying and despairing, with a trashed, litter ridden site left behind. But others display an idyllic vision of NO DIFFERENCE before and after. The land is left as it were.
Sobo Wastebusters are unable to participate as much as we would like at Southbourne Revival; we are 5 individuals with busy lives, juggling work and other voluntary commitments with family and the like. We cannot be everywhere; but what we strive to do is impart knowledge, ideas and ambition to adapt all of our individual expectations, actions and attitudes when it comes to caring for our environment. To enable everyone to be a Wastebuster, in Southbourne and beyond.
So please, this weekend, whether you are going to Southbourne Revival or not; reduce, reuse, recycle. Prepare and participate by:
1. Taking your own resuable cup, straw, cutlery and container around with you, for any refreshments and food you might purchase.
2. Packing multiple bags in case you make any impromptu purchases.
3. Including a bag for taking any rubbish home with you; and a separate one for items that could be recycled.
4. Tackling litter you see on the floor, by picking up a minimum of 3 items and disposing of them responsibly.
Imagine how much waste could be saved through everyone embracing these 4 simple actions? Can the before and after pictures of Fishermans Walk show NO DIFFERENCE?
We should all assume responsibility for our environment. If that means extending this to others who refuse or are unable to, than we must; because ultimately, we will all suffer the same consequences. Waste impacts on climate. Climate impacts on us all. Linked is a shocking article about water shortage in Zimbabwe. Could this be our community one day?
Being angry or resentful does not change the situation; nor will ignoring the problem and assuming someone else will deal with it. But being proactive will.
Thanking you. Thanking us. Strive to do better; strive for change. For our planet.🙏
https://www.climatechangenews.com/…/two-million-zimbabwes…/…
Something for the weekend....Action #18: Keep pushing for change to plug the plastic source
According to the National Geographic, only a fifth of global plastic waste is actually recycled. Sickening, isn't it?
The zero waste challenge is being taken on by more and more people. This is fantastic and we must praise their efforts.
It can feel hard enough trying to make the most minor adaptations on the journey there; banishing all single use plastic waste from our households is an uphill battle.
The simple solution is to just stop buying over packaged, plastic covered products.
When it comes to food shopping, you may be thinking 'I simply don't have the time and the budget to shop around for alternative products' and many would agree. For those of us who really want to make a difference, this is a despairing situation.
This does not end your ability to make a difference though; do not excuse yourself from doing anything about it!
Supermarkets heavily contribute to the swell in waste from packaging. However, we, as consumers, have the power to influence the (over) packaging crisis by reducing the demand for it and through:
1. Setting up new campaigns; joining existing ones.
2. Sharing feedback with the very shops and supermarkets who restrict our choices of plastic free shopping.
We try to share relevant petitions and local campaign actions through our social media channels - please feel free to share in the Group also!
If anyone has any campaign ideas, but is unsure where to start - shout out in the Group and start a conversation. You never know where it may lead or the impact these ideas could have otherwise!
Now go! In the time it took to read the next post in your newsfeed, you could have posted a few words to your local supermarket chain already.... and time is of the essence. Marine life is drowning in plastic. At this rate, our children will too.
*https://www.nationalgeographic.com/…/plastic-planet-waste-…/
Something for the weekend....Action #19: Ditch the plastic water bombs
Now the wind and rain blows in, let's take a moment to reflect. We have been experiencing a prolonged spell of warm weather. Cooling down the kids has been a must; but must we continue to reach for the water bombs?
Sure, they provide instant cooling relief and fun; but this is temporary and short lived. For us humans anyway.
The broken, discarded pieces stay on (even if you hide them in the bin).
On a recent camping trip in the New Forest, we founded tiny pieces of water bombs molded around blades of grass, evidently melted into little mounds. This is not good for the land nor wildlife foraging for food. We all know the choking risk balloons pose to babies and young children. A bird or small mammal would not stand a chance.
Then again, a day out at the Quomps splash park up the road, displayed an array of teeny plastic splashes of colour, nicely moulding themselves into the grass and concrete.....more of which no doubt sailed into the drains. Nice bit of plastic polluted water in the making. We managed to pick out some in what felt like a futile attempt to clear up the mess, as pictured (amongst other litter).
Something for the weekend....Action #20: Review and Recycle right
It may feel like there is a fine art to recycling; but simply, sorting is the key. Collections contaminated with items which cannot be recycled can end up going into general waste streams. Not good news.
Therefore we all need to take responsibility at the point of collection. Whether it be in a domestic, commercial or other facility.
Part of this process is educating ourselves. Sobo Wastebusters aim to assist with this; we are familiar with the minefield of recycling - where, when, how...whaaat?!!! It can get very confusing! So here are a few resources you might find helpful:
Our website!
www.sobowastebusters.com
Where you can find useful links, ideas and a directory of local recycling points. This directory is a work in progress - please share any updates and information you may have to contribute!
BCP Council
https://www.bournemouth.gov.uk/binsre…/BinsandRecycling.aspx
They provide more details than you might think on their website about all aspects of waste management, including local authority recycling facilities across Bournemouth - from car batteries, to garden waste and textiles. You can even ask for free assistance with a green audit in your workplace!
Recycle Now
www.recyclenow.com
Provides extensive online advice, information about recycling symbols; a directory to help you identify where items can be taken nationally; and how to reduce your waste. This is where we discovered the immense list of items that can go in plastic bag recycling points!
Ideas2Action
www.ideas2action.org.uk
They bring us Win on Waste collection points across Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch; taking things our Council don't - from toothbrushes to biscuit wrappers. They also provide the 'We need that!' directory and other community recycling projects.
TerraCycle UK
www.terracycle.com/en-GB/
This is a private recycling firm, partnering up with an increasing number of big brands and manufacturers to tackle packaging waste generated from everyday products. From pet food, to tobacco pouches; crisp packets to craft items. Use their online search facility to find out about all the schemes, collection point locations - and how to set up a collection yourself! It is easier than you might think - give it a go!
There will of course be plenty more resources out there, but these are ones we typically draw on and find most helpful.
We wish you happy reading; and more effective recycling ♻️♻️♻️
Further, there was the TV advert for some contraption that fills up seemingly 100s of water balloons at the same time. I nearly keeled over.
Please don't be green washed into thinking 'biodegradable water balloons' are any better; as under the right conditions, they would eventually, after a year or so, appear to vanish - but have they really disappeared or just broken down into micro plastics, unseen to the human eye? The micro plastics most likely to already be saturating into the ground, into the ground water and food chain as they end up into the bellies of birds, insects, microorganisms and beyond.
FACT: A new study has found that balloons are the highest-risk plastic debris item for seabirds — 32 times more likely to kill than ingesting hard plastics.*
So next time, if you or someone you know reach for a packet of these fun time treats....please think again. Consider a different activity that doesn't involve single use plastic; and avoid this mini disaster in your own turf. On our turf. Because it is our land and we need to look after it, if it is to look after us.
If you would like to know more about the wider issues around the relationship between land preservation and climate change, you may like to read this article https://www.theguardian.com/…/climate-crisis-reducing-lands…
*Taken from the article https://www.sciencedaily.com/releas…/2019/…/190301084847.htm
Something for the weekend....Action #21:
Put the date in your diary - join us on SUNDAY 29th SEPTEMBER from 11am - 4pm!
If you didn't know already, we are planning an ECO FAYRE at Fisherman's Walk, in the heart of Southbourne.
Our aim is to bring local groups, businesses, organisations and individuals together; to celebrate all the work around sustainability being done; learn how we can do better; and build community links so we can drive the agenda forward in our local area and beyond.
We have received many stall holder applications. There will be a diverse range of information, advice and guidance on hand, with some live and interactive demonstrations; in addition to eco friendly products, yummy food and refreshments for sale.
Just bring an open mind, along with your reusable bags, cups, food boxes and cutlery!
So whether you have adopted a zero waste lifestyle in your family; embarked on a commercial waste reduction plan; or are just starting out on your wastebusting journey, please do JOIN US!
And you could do this in 2 ways:
🖐 Lend a hand - all the event planning and organisation is down to volunteers. Whether you have a little or a lot of time to spare. If you would like to be part of this ambitious and inspiring team, please contact us on [email protected].
🖐🖐 Drop in and bring others with you - family, friends, colleagues; sustainability is everyone's business. Young, or less young, we all need to be taking positive action to preserve our planet. Let's put Southbourne on the map as a community paving the way and inspire others to get on board.
We look forward to meeting you all in September. Let's do this TOGETHER! 🙌
Something for the weekend....Action #22: Think about lunch boxes
The lunch box is an important tool to reducing waste; both the box itself and all future contents. A staple since school and with a market now so vast, the mind boggles when choosing a new one. For adults and children.
FIRSTLY - why the need to continually buy new ones? INVEST in one for life. For you and your kids, if you should have them. Or REUSE what you have!
So far this steel lunchbox pictured has lasted one 7 year old over a year. Light, robust, compact but roomy enough; it is easily cleaned at the end of each use, with no musty, manky, build up of unpleasant odour in previous lined lunch 'bags' which featured brightly coloured characters no longer a favourite after about 5mins....and eventually had to be binned within 6 months despite attempts to clean and deodourise. It is also used interchangeably across different family members beyond the school hours. A winner.
On the other hand, this 3 year old has survived just fine with repurposed (and decorated 🙃) single use plastic boxes, complete with a canvas bag found amongst a stash already at home. The habit of reusing rather than buying new is normal and natural to this young Wastebuster. It is so important we facilitate positive attitudes and expectations amongst new and future generations. Start them young!
SECONDLY - the point of a lunch box is to provide a protective, portable means of containing food on the go. So why fill it with so many pre-packaged products? The supermarket shelves bulge and lure with their brightly coloured goodies of convenience, mini packs of crisps, biscuits, fruit, veg. Tempting?
Turn your attention to images of land and water bulging with all that packaging strewn across social media.
Instead, consider the following:
✅ Buy larger packs of the lunchbox items you would normally buy; crisps, crackers, dried fruit, malt loaf, yoghurt, cheese instead of multipacks....they can all be decanted into smaller pots, wrapped in wax or fabric wraps. Or could dry items even just go straight in the lunchbox? This may not eliminate packaging but it reduces it - especially if you are in a position to buy in bulk from a zero waste store.
✅ Schedule a few extra minutes each week to chop up fruit and veg in bulk. Freeze and take out when required. Or store in jars with a little lemon juice in the fridge, to preserve for a few extra days. Make it part of your routine and it will become a habit, not a hassle.
✅ Whizz up some dips and dressings in bulk - hummus, guacamole, sour cream and chive...honey and mustard, balsamic, garlicky tahini and lemon....again, reuse glass jars to make and store them in. If you plan on making some for dinner one night anyway, just make extra.
✅ Popcorn, muffins, granola, flapjacks, 'energy' balls (packed with seeds and dried fruit) are far quicker to make from scratch than you might think. And make a healthier alternative to the stuff boxed up.
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If sandwiches are your thing - don't forget bread bags are accepted by Win on Waste, other Terracycle collections and supermarket carrier bag collection points! Unless of course you are in the fortunate position to bake loaves yourself or visit one of the many local bakeries we are lucky to have in Southbourne, that will offer you produce in a paper bag or pop in straight in your own reusable bag.
So just do a quick search of zero waste lunch box ideas via Ecosia to find lots of inspiring recipes, lunch plans and other ideas. Or share in the comments below.
Before you know it, you'll develop better lunch box habits that keep you and those you prep them for healthier; your planet healthier; and make you an inspiration to others!
Something for the weekend....Action #23: Take part in second hand September; and beyond
If you haven't seen the Secondhand September campaign, now is the time to read up and crack on.
We have an abundance of charity shops in Southbourne. Clothes, furniture, toys, soft furnishings, crockery, chintz and more - what may be old to someone else can be new to you.
If it is just clothes you're into, with a weakness for a more boutique-y second hand shopping experience, check out the fabulous The Charity Rail on Pokesdown Hill/Boscombe East. You can also pick up some gorgeous hand made lavender shoe fresheners - all made with scrap fabric and lavender donated from local gardens. #wastebusting #winning
And don't forget the other options....shops locally, such as Bournemouth's Vintage Emporium, The Crooked Book; arrange a clothes swap with friends (us Wastebusters had lots of fun laughing at the totally unsuitable; and rejoicing in the totally suitable swaps among us); or go online using Facebook Groups / Marketplace, Ebay, Gumtree and more.
You can also make use of many of the above options if you are having a clear out. There are multiple local tailors around to assist with any clothes that need fixing or altering; or have a go yourself!
♻️ Any clothes that are truly knackered can be bundled up and taken to the textile recycling point in the Woodside Road carpark (see https://www.bournemouth.gov.uk/…/NeighbourhoodRecyclingCent… for other locations across Bournemouth) - unless the fabric could be used as scrap for an upcycling project? Pictured is a very cute lavender filled bunny made from old cashmere jumpers, purchased from the aforementioned The Charity Rail (sorry, it was the last one for sale 😬. But may it provide some inspiration! 🐰🐰🐰).
Of course, shopping second hand may be second nature to many of you. Either way, whether your motivation is to save money or save the planet, here are 4 facts to help you review your buying of brand new clothes:
❌ Every week 11 million items of clothing are sent to landfill in the UK.
‼The emissions from new clothes bought in the UK each month are greater than those from a plane flying around the world 900 times (Oxfam)
‼‼The UN says that by 2050 the equivalent of almost three planets could be required to provide the natural resources needed to sustain current lifestyles given the growth in global population.
✅ By buying second hand, you are setting an example that challenges throwaway culture. Imagine if more of us did this? Could we create a cultural shift?
Sobering.
#secondhandseptember. For you. For your kids. For everyone.
Something for the weekend....Action #24: ❤ your old bags
With the help of some fabulous volunteers (you know who you are!), we are proud to offer live upcycling at the upcoming Eco Fayre (29th September at Fisherman's Walk, Southbourne). The focus will be on making bags out of donated fabric.
As efforts are made to reduce (and rid of) the use of plastic bags across the UK, marketing of bags made of alternative materials (paper, cotton, polyester and more) has risen. They are everywhere. Which can be handy if you get caught out with no spare and shopping to pack.
But really, how many bags do we need?
What are they made of and how is the material produced - is it sustainable, or does it carry a high carbon footprint which is potentially more polluting than plastic bags?
How much of the marketing is simply greenwashing to lure us into buying more?
In a recent post from Morsbags Sociable Guerilla Bagging:
"According to a Danish study*, unless a newly produced reusable bag is consistently used for at least 11.5 years, it won’t offset the fact that manufacturing these types of bags creates 606 times as much water pollution as making a plastic bag...and...a UK government study echoes the fact that cotton and canvas tote bags have an enormous carbon footprint because they require more resources to produce and distribute... and "in terms of air and water contamination, cotton bags are worse than plastic bags."
*https://mst.dk/…/publikationer/pub…/2018/mar/plastposer-lca/
So. How can you Wastebust your way out of this situation?
✅ Ensure you have a spare bag or 2 rolled up into the main bag(s) you use at all times - add it to your mental list of PHONE, KEYS, WALLET, SPARE BAG!
✅ Use what you have got until it functions no more. REUSE to the max!
✅ Shop second hand. REUSE someone else's unused! Make the most of what is already in circulation.
✅ Make your own bags with fabric you or others have stashed away; this includes repurposing old clothes, duvet covers, pillow cases, curtains or any other fabric items you have. Try a NO SEW bag out of an old T-Shirt (do a quick search on Ecosia to find DIY tutorials online). REUSE what you can!
✅ Pop along to the upcycling stall at the Sobo Eco Fayre for inspiration and sewing tips.
If you're all set to go, go make - for you, family, friends. Or get involved with the Morsbag project to reach out to even more people.
Simply, REUSE REUSE REUSE & ❤ YOUR OLD BAGS!
Something for the weekend....Action #25: Getting your workplace greener
❗️More than 80% of natural disasters are caused by Climate Change.
❗️It is predicted that the UK will face damage to infrastructure from storms and flooding, regular periods of drought and an increase in heat related deaths due to dangerously hot summers in our cities. It will harm living and working conditions (TUC: Greener Deals)
.
This week UNISON have been promoting the TUC Green Workplaces agenda through their ‘Green Week’ campaign. https://www.unison.org.uk/events/green-unison-week/
Information features the following:
Half of UK carbon emissions are produced by work activity:
🤷♀️Where do you start? 🤷♂️What can you do?
Do a walk around; what do you see?
Are there plastic free swaps to be made?
Can resources be purchased from sustainable suppliers?
Can bottled water coolers be exchanged for mains water coolers?
Are all current resources necessary - can you REDUCE or REUSE?
Are there visible and accessible recycling points available? ♻️
What happens to food waste?
What energy supplier is used?
🚲 How many people cycle to work - are there adequate facilities to park and lock bikes up? Are there any car shares organised?
Before you know it, you’ll have a comprehensive list to use as a starting point.
Don’t try and do it on your own or overload yourself; plan, list and record ideas and achievements, big or small. Raise staff awareness and encourage behavioural change; as TUC point out, true sustainability is a team effort and cannot be achieved without the active co-operation and interest of all. Get everyone engaged - clients & customers; colleagues; senior management; HR and Facility / Maintenance departments.
.
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Is anyone doing this already? Share your experience - have you any tips or advice? What has worked well, or not so well?
So whether you’re a paid employee, volunteer, working independently or as part of a wider team - the UK Climate Change Act 2008 sets a target for an 80% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2050; and 34% by 2020.
BCP Council has declared a Climate Emergency and has a goal to be carbon neutral by 2030; and an ambition for the BCP region to be carbon neutral before 2050.
These goals will only be achieved through collaborative action. Be part of it!💚💪🌎
Something for the weekend....Action #26: Help us to help you and the wider community. Spread the word about the @Sobo Eco Fayre
Sunday 29th September - our Eco Fayre is just around the corner - have you cleared your diary? Told everyone you know? Planned to bring friends and family along? Packed your zero waste kit?!*
🌧💨It's a bit windy....but the @Sobo Eco Fayre WILL go ahead in the Sports Hall of Bournemouth Collegiate School (BH5 2DY). It is only about a 10min walk down the road from Fishermans Walk. Less if you cycle 🚲.
Weather conditions will continue to escalate globally due to climate change. So we must all take steps to slow it down. See you Sunday, where you can learn how?
The planet is in crisis. We cannot resolve all the damage done; but we can all play a part in damage limitation. We need to. Why? Friends of the Earth share a few poignant facts:
❗️Climate change impacts are happening now and are increasing in severity and likelihood – from floods in Asia and Europe to droughts and hurricanes in the USA.
❗️Climate change is affecting people here in the UK – as flooding will continue to get worse.
❗️The task is urgent – it is what happens between now and 2030 that overwhelmingly determines whether we can keep to 1.5°C, and save as many lives and livelihoods as possible.
❗️There is over 95% certainty that human influence is the dominant factor in warming since the mid 20th century.
Read up on more in depth, evidence based facts from IPCC. But more importantly, act now. We are trying to highlight the smaller steps we as every day folk can take to get the ball rolling. Before you know it you will be doing more. Which is just as well. As our future depends on it.🌎🌍🌏
“People are suffering. People are dying. Entire ecosystems are collapsing. We are in the beginning of a mass extinction." (Greta Thunberg)
See you on Sunday, where we can all learn how we can do more, together. From 11am.
*Remember to bring your own cup and food container for drinks, lunch and snacks! And a bag for any spontaneous purchases!
Something for the weekend....Action #27: What to do about white goods
It's not uncommon to see an old washing machine nestled among other items in a fly tipping spot...dumped, or otherwise, waiting to be disposed of outside someone's house.
"The average UK household spends £800 a year on household electrical items, and as a country, annually, we throw away 1.4 million tonnes of waste electrical and electronic equipment". (WEEE, 2018)
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Locally, Millhams Community Recycling Centre accept old domestic appliances. If you can't make it there, there are plenty of local, licensed businesses to contact for assistance; or arrange collection via BCP Council (https://www.bournemouth.gov.uk/BinsRecycling/BinCollections/WhiteGoodsTVsAndFurniture.aspx).
But if your white goods - washing machine, fridge, freezer - appear faulty at any point; consider whether they are at the end of their life; or can they be fixed up? Because there are also a lot of local engineers who may well be able to assist (you only need to do a search on SoBO to find one!).
EZ Appliances on Holdenhurst Road inspired this post; with extensive staff knowledge, they source, fix up and sell on refurbished washing machines and tumble driers.
Disappointed my machine was beyond help after about 6 years, they happily took it away and replaced it with my chosen refurbished machine that should last me just the same as a new one (excluding top of the range machines perhaps....but the budget just isn't there!). My old machine will be stripped down of any useful parts and disposed of responsibly.
White goods just haven't been built to last for a decade or more, as I seem to hope for. They are also priced in a way that often make it cheaper to buy brand new replacement if they break.
But whilst this may benefit financially, the environmental impact has been overlooked for too long; yet more unnecessary waste is being created to serve our culturally embedded need for cheap convenience.
This comes at a high cost, as the carbon emissions created from the manufacture of new machines contribute to global warming. As will the disposal of dumped items.
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The good news is new standards are being introduced by the EU to change this. From 2021, firms will have to make appliances longer-lasting, and they will have to supply spare parts for machines for up to 10 years.
The 'Right to repair' rules apply to lighting, washing machines, dishwashers and fridges. This article offers more details. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-49884827
So along with furniture, bags, clothes and other household items - can you make do and mend your white goods? Or make use of second hand or refurbished ones when a replacement is needed?
And if you need expert assistance - think local; to support small, independent repair businesses like EZ Appliances. Don't let the repair trade die out; let's help it grow; and together, reduce our waste.
N.B.
These maybe useful websites to note in your quest to repair:
https://www.espares.co.uk
https://www.ifixit.com/
...as recommended by Recycle Now.
Something for the weekend....Action #28: Avoid sending textiles to landfill
"Each year the British public throw away over a million tonnes of textiles, the vast majority of which could be used or recycled." (Textile Recycling UK)
So what to do:
REFUSE fast fashion, cheap fabrics and soft furnishings.
....Invest better quality items that will last longer; find them second hand from charity shops and/or online via Marketplace, Ebay, Gumtree etc. And don't forget Dorset Scrapstore!
...You maybe able to pick up freebies through groups such as Sobo Recycle and FREEUSE - Bournemouth Reuse Group.
REUSE and REPURPOSE what you have. Or offer unwanted items (clothes, fabric scraps, remnants, EVERYTHING) through places listed above.
Don't forget pre-schools, schools, day centres and other local community projects; textiles can be used in a wide range of ways for craft activities. Depending on what you have, given them a call and see if your stash can be of use:
...An old pair of curtains of yours could become someone else's shopping bag!
... A bundle of yarn collecting dust in another home could become your next crochet project!
...Tiny scraps or cut up tights could stuff handmade toys being prepared for plastic free presents!
...Remnants could be cut into strips and become a piece of woven wall art!
REPAIR items that need fixing up yourself or find a local tailor who can.
...Get more savvy with sewing through a local class - Haberdasherdo are starting up a variety of craft workshops; check out Reuse Not Refuse Sewing Social - Re-Loved Garms and the next Bournemouth Repair Cafe.
And finally - RECYCLE.
...Set aside a collection box at home for textile items that are beyond
repair....curtains...clothes...bedding...all things textile. Ensure they are clean - then bag up and take to your nearest textile recycling point. In Southbourne, head to Woodside Road carpark (pictured) or find other local facilities via these links:
https://www.bournemouth.gov.uk/binsrecycling/recyclingrecyclingcentres/NeighbourhoodRecyclingCentres.aspx
https://www.recyclenow.com/what-to-do-with/clothing-textiles-0
Increasingly, high street stores such as h&m also accept clothing. Check with your local branch first.
Be sure to get the whole household involved if you live with others.
...Notice what builds up in your collection box; and be creative - for example, are there potential cleaning cloths in there?! (No sewing needed - just cut with pinking shears!).
But remember, any recycling should always be the last step (before the bin); it takes considerable amounts of energy to complete the process and few items can be infinitely recycled like aluminium and glass.
So there you have plenty options. All of which avoid textiles going into landfill. Be sure to follow them up (if you're not already of course) and spread the word. The more of us that RETHINK and change our habits, the greater the impact will be on reducing waste.
Something for the weekend....Action #29 Styrofoam swaps and more. Tackling the takeaway container
Scientists say more should be done to tackle the growing environmental impact of takeaway food containers. A new study estimates there are 2025 million takeaway containers per year being used in the European Union (EU) alone. (University of Manchester)
During a recent camping trip, some take away food was presented in Styrofoam containers, carried in a plastic bag. For a campsite that demonstrates care for the environment, particularly being based in the beautiful surrounds of the New Forest, this really didn't seem right at all.
❓❓❓Why❓❓❓
Styrofoam containers have a surprisingly low carbon footprint when it comes to manufacturing them; but they cannot be considered a sustainable packaging as recycling facilities are very limited; and if contaminated with greasy food, it cant anyway). Therefore they mostly end up in landfill.
The fact that Styrofoam is non-biodegradable adds to the ecological impact. Landfills are filling up at a record rate and Styrofoam is one reason. Styrofoam has the potential to affect the entire ecological system of this planet.*
❓❓❓What can we do❓❓❓
✅ Plan ahead; make your own drinks, snacks and meals to take on the go, instead of buying them.
✅ Provide your own containers when you order.
✅ Ask the eatery you're buying from to re-consider the containers they use; for example, could they swap them with a home compostable material or do more to encourage customers to bring their own container?
Some options will feel more realistic than others; afterall, take away food is all about convenience.
But the culture of convenience is what has contributed to the levels of waste we suffer with now. Something needs to change. If we push for this together, change will happen. Start the take away container change today.
(And watch this space for an upcoming Sobo Wastebusters project 💚)
*https://sciencing.com/facts-about-landfill-styrofoam-5176735.html
Something for the weekend....Action #30 Home growing from food waste and more
Revisiting.....Something for the weekend.....Action #8: Grow your own naked cucumber....and more! (search in announcements to find it fast!).
Check out how the celery and nasturtiums flourished! The celery was sprouted from the base of some bought from the supermarket before the summer ...... none has been purchased since!
🌼🌼And not only have the nasturtiums (the seeds came FREE with a kids lunchbox at a famous Swedish store) provided some beautiful flowers to enjoy outside and in; but the leaves are excellent alternative to rocket. Yes, you can eat them. Yes, they are peppery and delicious; and yes, that is 1 less lot of plastic packaging caught up in the weekly family food shop. Winning.
Did anyone else have a go? Any joy? Share with us! But there is more.....
🥑🥑 Like avocados?
Keep those pips - grow some beautiful houseplants by sprouting them! This has taken some perseverance - but success is on the horizon! Pictured is the more advanced success of a Wastebusting friend 😊. For a bit of guidance check out this video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TDd_QU9Crmk&feature=share
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If you fancy having a go at growing your own fruit, pop along to King's Park Nursery and pick up some bargain blueberry plants, fig trees and strawberries. 🍓🔵
🌱🌱 Or plant out some veg seeds - broad beans, French beans and peas are good to go in October. REUSE any large plastic bottles as cloches to protect seedlings from frosts as the temperature drops.
A few simple tips....over to you. Happy growing, happy Wastebusting!
Something for the weekend....Action #31 Say goodbye to the glow sticks and things
🎆 Bonfire night is almost upon us; glow sticks and other novelty flashing objects are a familiar sight at this time of year - but can this be one tradition to break for the better ?? Can we start new ones with our children that are more forgiving to the future of their environment??
Glow sticks are essentially plastic tubes that hold two liquids, one in the plastic casing and one inside a glass vial that floats in the first liquid. When you bend a glow stick, you break the glass vial which allows the two liquids to mix.
The two liquids vary from one make of glow stick to the next; some are non-toxic, others are. So if the stick should split and the liquids are released, at best they may cause slight irritation to the skin; at worst, it could cause a lot of discomfort and pain in the eyes. If you have ever had the misfortune to see this happen to a child, you will probably tend to steer clear of them for safety reasons.
But what of the environmental impact? Glow sticks will be literally snapped up and enjoyed for a few hours at most. Then they will be discarded…in the bin at best…on the ground at worst. Either way, the consequence being a collective mass of single use plastic laying in the earth.
Glow sticks cannot be reused or recycled; and disposal leads to risks of contamination to water and soil. If you have ever seen hundreds of discarded old glow sticks littered across a festival site in the cold light of day, it’s not so pretty. So is a few hours of shiny fun really worth the consequence?
If you're being pestered by the kids, sit down and have a conversation about the impact of single use plastic on our environment - the book Kids Fight Plastic by Martin Dorey is an excellent way of introducing facts and inspiration for children. Visit BH6 Books and Home to buy a copy - or visit Southbourne Library to explore a whole section of books on the topic of greener thinking for kids and adults.
A few suggestions for glow stick replacements:
🌟 Fluorescent, hi vis or glow in the dark clothing - that can be worn repeatedly, shared and borrowed.
🌟 Fluorescent paint - decorate some sticks and twigs or existing clothes and accessories.
🌟 Fluorescent make up - swirl on a splash of colour to stand out from the crowd.
🌟 LED head torches and similar; that function with replaceable batteries (rechargeable ones if possible).
Of course, all of these still have reason to sit on your eco-conscience. The packaging being one of them.
Instead, is any of it really necessary? Let’s choose. Let’s refuse the plastic traditions one by one.
Something for the weekend....Action #32: Review your food waste
“Don’t waste electricity, don’t waste paper, don’t waste food. Live the way you want to live but just don’t waste...."
Sir David Attenborough
FOOD!!!! The waste of it is a major problem in the UK alone. According to WRAP - each year, the average household throws half of milk purchased; 170 potatoes; and collectively, 860 000 apples EVERY DAY!!!!
In fact, Recycle Now state 'if we all stopped wasting the food which could have been eaten, it would have the same CO2 impact as taking 1 in 4 cars off UK roads.'
We must all make time for a quick review. Start this weekend! Let's break it down:
Q: Do you plan your food shop according to what you will use, or do it on a whim?
Q: How much of cooked meals are leftover? What do you do with any?
Q: How much fresh produce are you throwing out because it has gone bad?
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CONSIDER:
🔵 MEAL PLANNING and SHOPPING LISTS - stick to them! ONLY BUY WHAT YOU NEED!
🔵 MAKE USE of food that would otherwise be wasted - pick up or donate items from / to Boscombe Community Fridge.
🔵 STORING FOOD RIGHT - it in a way that MAXIMISES the time it will stay fresh. The humble jar with water and lemon juice in the fridge goes far. As does a wax wrap. And don't forget, the freezer is your friend!
🔵 PORTION SIZES before you start preparing a meal, to minimise leftovers; or capitalise on the mighty leftover to create another meal! Make a bit extra - that could be tomorrow's lunch sorted. Or FREEZE it for a future dinner!
🔵 GET CREATIVE with cooked and uncooked leftovers!
Follow Love Food Hate Waste - Community for plenty of advice and ideas about all the points above.
And finally...When you go out for a meal - why not take your own CONTAINER for any unexpected leftovers? (Particularly handy for when pudding proves too much.....)
❌For the food scraps you really can't use, DO NOT go near your general waste bin - food waste in landfill creates masses of methane, which is 100 TIMES more potent than carbon dioxide and incredibly damaging. Instead, turn to:
✅Your FREE brown FOOD WASTE bin. The contents will be used for commercial composting; to generate liquid feed; and as an energy source to power local recycling facilities.
✅A COMPOST bin. Create your own nutritious compost for future growing. BCP provide subsidised compost bins to local residents. https://www.bournemouth.gov.uk/binsrecycling/GoGreen/HomeComposting/GetStartedWithHomeComposting.aspx
✅A KOBASHI bin. Never heard of one? Check out the blog post www.sobowastebusters.com/blog/bokashi-what.
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Hopefully after as little as a week of reflection, your level of food waste will reduce - and collectively, we can cut down on the £12 billion worth of food that BCP states the UK wastes each year!
Something for the weekend....Action #33: Time for tea - like they used to
Teabags. A modern phenomenon, for ease and convenience. But sadly contributing to our plastic crisis.
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We love a cuppa and in this chilly weather, the intake is increasing!
Black, green, fruit, herbal - the choice is immense. But what the majority have in common, is the single use tea bag and packaging. Often, complete with plastic involved with both - from the glue to outer wrapping. All except Pukka tea, according to this recent article.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-50260687
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The alternative? The humble tea leaf!
And in Southbourne, you can access a whole range of tea leaves from That Brilliant Store or Food on the Loose; and just down the road in Tuckton, the really rather splendid The Exotic Teapot.
Choose what you would like; how much you would like; and pack it up in your own container.
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Consider using a reusable teabag that you simply fill and empty yourself; a tea strainer; or infuser, of which there are many designs and types. The used leaves can go in your home composter without the fear of microplastics entering the earth.
Tea for two or more? Pick up a teapot in one of the many local charity shops. And enjoy the pleasure of making a pot of plastic free tea!!!
Something for the weekend....Action #34: Keep the cold out and (green) energy in
A few weeks ago BCP announced gritters would be out across main highways due to predicted freezing temperatures. Winter is here.
If you haven't already, now would be a good time to do a quick spot check on the insulation of your home. We're not talking radical building works and window replacements; but simple, affordable steps to save wasted energy fighting cold drafts sneaking in through windows and doors.
Then check out your thermostat and programme the timer on your boiler. If you feel the need to hit the overide button, check what you're wearing - can you try adding a layer first?! According to MoneySupermarket, turning down your thermostat just one degree and putting on a jumper can cut your bills by £80 per year.
For further impartial guidance, have a quick read of this article by Energy Saving Trust:
https://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/home-insulation/draught-proofing
Making simple adaptations, ultimately, will use less energy to heat your home, which is an important plus for our environment.
And on the subject of energy, is your supplier investing in and using renewable energy resources, such as wind power or biofuel?
Or is it primarily drawn from fossil fuels, like coal and oil? Again, head on over to the Energy Saving Trust website for more information:
https://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/home-energy-efficiency/switching-utilities/buying-green-electricity
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There are a growing number of green energy companies; so tariffs are becoming more competitive and affordable.
It is true to say many will draw from a mix of fossil fuels and renewable energy; some simply pay to offset their carbon emissions. Either way, the way green energy is produced has become much more efficient and therefore more power is being generated.
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The more we invest in such companies, by providing our custom, the greater the drive to achieving fully sustainable energy for the future. Because fossil fuels will not be there to serve us.
Something for the weekend.....Action 35: Keep going. Keep wastebusting
3 5 y e a r s ago, scientific evidence was being published to demonstrate the need for society to take action on climate change. Sadly, action has been slow and unsubstantial relative to the issues our planet faces today. But we must keep pushing for change.
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F r a c t a l s. A constant, beautiful, naturally occurring pattern found in nature. More than aesthetically pleasing to the eye, the connection between fractals and leaves is currently being used to determine how much carbon is contained in trees. Further, like fractals, constant, repeated patterns of positive human behaviour are crucial in the world's bid to preserve the future of our planet.
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The future is uncertain and it should concern every single one of us.
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You may notice repeated, ongoing themes in Sobo Wastebusters social media posts and projects. Centred around RETHINK, REFUSE, REUSE, RECYCLE - these are the themes we must ALL weave into every aspect of our lives in the strive to reduce our waste and live more sustainably. Our rubbish is killing wildlife - 1 in 7 species are under threat of extinction in the UK alone - and it will no doubt lead to our own human demise.
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This is the final post in the series of weekly actions, to focus on our '3 Steps to Zero Waste' project. We hope these posts have inspired you to take the same or similar actions (if you haven't already); and enabled you to start conversations with others who may not be so eco-conscious.
You can still access all 35 action posts by searching in the Sobo Wastebusters Group posts and notifications. We are also working to create an archive on our website.
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The need is now clear and apparent; from floods to droughts and fires. Climate change is a global issue but we must start locally. We must work together to save our planet. We cannot afford to leave it another 35 years.
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Keep going; keep wastebusting. Let not the death of the albatross be in vain.
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https://climate.nasa.gov/evidence
Photo: Chris Jordan, from his film ALBATROSS
they are good ideas for any day of the week.
'Something for the weekend ... ' is a series of actions that gave ideas on how we can all do one small thing starting over the weekend that would help us reduce our waste through for example refuse, reuse actions plus making your lives more sustainable through things like choosing green energy, not buying new and much more.
DOWNLOAD ACTIONS
Take a look below for all the actios and click the link to download the information for each action.
Action #1: A 2 minute challenge, to challenge!
Action #2: Be prepared, switch that cup!
Action#3: Use your vote!
Action #4: Make do and mend.
Action #5: Inspire and be inspired; get involved, volunteer!
Action #6: Pre-empt, pack and pick up.
Action #7: Don’t panic; don’t be alone; do share and do what you can.
Action #8: Grow your own naked cucumber....and more!
Action #9: Use your existing waste to reduce your future waste!
Action #10: Get on your bike!
Action #11: Wastebust your water.
Action #12: Just pick it up.
Action #13: Celebrate and encourage.
Action #14: Stop cleaning fish to death.
Action #15: Batteries and more: be kerbside ready.
Action #16: Reduce harmful waste in our indoor air.
Action #17: Sharing the load; show NO DIFFERENCE.
Action #18: Keep pushing for change to plug the plastic source.
Action #19: Ditch the plastic water bombs.
Action #20: Review and Recycle right.
Action #21: Put the date in your diary - join us on SUNDAY 29th SEPTEMBER from 11am - 4pm.
Action #22: Think about lunch boxes.
Action #23: Take part in second hand September; and beyond.
Action #24: ❤ your old bags.
Action #25: Getting your workplace greener.
Action #26: Help us to help you and the wider community. Spread the word about the Eco Fayre.
Action #27: What to do about white goods.
Action #28: Avoid sending textiles to landfill.
Action #29: Styrofoam swaps and more. Tackling the takeaway container.
Action #30: Home growing from food waste and more.
Action #32: Review your food waste.
Action #33: Time for tea - like they used to.
Action #34: Keep the cold out and (green) energy in.
Action #35: Keep going. Keep wastebusting.
READ THE ACTIONS
Something for the weekend…..action #1: A 2 minute challenge, to challenge!
The impact of political mass cannot be ignored. But you don’t always have to wait on a group or party; challenging the norm does not mean face to face confrontation or expertly prepared emails. You, as an individual, have the power to influence change; and even the busiest of us CAN make the time.
If you are reading this post, you have a sense of passion for change. You are already on Facebook. You have the freedom to comment. In the time it takes to scroll through your newsfeed after reading this post to find a next point of interest, or made a comment on it, you could have clicked ‘Message’ on your local supermarket Facebook page, written your concerns relating to their environmental impact and SENT! BOOM - DONE!
This might seem like a small gesture - but there are over 300 of us in this Group now. Imagine if Aldi received that many messages just from us this weekend? What if every chain supermarket on the Grove heard from each of us? It doesn’t have to be long, just a few sentences to voice your point or ask your question.
Let us know who you message - what was their reply? Is it what you expected? What could your next step be?
Something for the weekend…..action #2: Be prepared, switch that cup!
There are an abundance of reusable cups, flasks and similar vessels available to buy in shops and cafes on our very own highstreet.
Some cafes offer a small discount, to encourage people to bring in their own cup.
So all we need to do is be prepared and remember to take ours with us when we walk out our front door - even if you don't plan to get a take away drink. You might change your mind!
However, what if you end up stopping somewhere for a drink that doesn't actively encourage the same positive action?
Some of us may enjoy this opportunity to ask, inspire and promote better habits. But what if you don't feel as confident asking staff to use your own cup? Do you suddenly feel self conscious, anxious; not wanting to cause a fuss or worry about the staff reaction to your (albeit positively proactive) request?
Then close your eyes, take a breath and remind yourself of this:
The myth:
We all know the score about plastic and polystyrene cups....and we have posted recently about those made of 'compostable' material...but...did you realise the idea that all paper cups will safely biodegrade or be recycled is not necessarily true.
Most paper coffee cups are coated with a plastic resin for durability; and unless washed, will be contaminated with whatever beverage they were used for. Therefore they cannot be separated out in a standard recycling mill. Only two factories in the UK currently have this separating facility.*
So an exceptionally small proportion of 'paper' cup recycling actually goes on. Approx 1 in 400, in fact.**
The figures:
"In 2011, a Which? Report found that 2.5 billion disposable coffee cups are used each year in the UK. However, as the coffee shop industry has grown considerably since then, this figure is likely to be an underestimate of usage now. Based on the estimate that the UK currently uses 2.5 billion disposable cups, by 2025 coffee shop growth will see the UK using approximately 3.75 billion disposable cups per year. However, Eunomia Research and Consulting have suggested that the UK may already use as many as 5 billion coffee cups per year."**
So. If we all share the same habit - we won't feel singled out; using our own reusable cup will be the norm; and our environment will be free of millions of single use cups each doing their little bit of damage.
Share your pics with us; dare to ask - what was the reply? Is it what you expected? What could your next step be to reduce and reuse?
*www.reusablecups.co.uk
**House of Commons Environmental Audit Committee - Disposable Packaging: Coffee Cups, Second Report of Session 2017–19
Something for the weekend….action#3: use your vote!
Hopefully you are all aware of upcoming local elections and have registered to vote. The day to cast your vote is Thursday 2nd May. Nominations details can be found here:
https://www.poole.gov.uk/…/bournemouth-christchurch-and-po…/
The ward you live in is named on your Poll card.
Given the current climate in politics, it is understandable some people may feel a degree of apathy, questioning why they should even bother voting.
However, we are privileged enough to have the right, so why not give it a whirl. No matter what your usual political stance may be, we are united by 1 crucial matter in this Group - our environment.
So take a look at the views, actions and proposals of the 2019 candidates. How do they relate to the environmental issues you care about?
Maybe list your top 3 issues of concern and see how the candidates compare - if you can't find the answer you are looking for, why not send them a quick email?
See Southbourne Forum for local campaign details.
We would be interested to hear what your lists are, to assist with the development of Sobo Wastebusters; and help us to help you address what matters most. Drop us a post below!
My top 3 local environmental issues:
+Support to reduce domestic and commercial waste
+Enable investment into sustainable energy
+Education to support and encourage inclusive community action against climate change.
Something for the weekend…..action #4: Make do and mend
"The average household in the UK produces more than a tonne of waste every
year. Put together, this comes to a total of 31 million tonnes per year, equivalent
to the weight of three and a half million double-decker buses, a queue of which
would go around the world two and a half times."
We have finally made it through the winter to spring. In the haste to adapt to the onset of warmer weather, let's not be tempted to rush out to the shops just yet....for clothes, shoes, accessories....for gardening tools, plants and furniture....new bikes, camping gear, outdoor games and sports equipment.....
And if a traditional spring clean takes your fancy...hold off reaching for the bin or going to tip. Instead, perhaps:
1. Take stock: what do you have already? Do you really need to buy new items? Can a bit more life be squeezed out of what you do have? Can you make do?
2. Get fixing: so you realise you have what you need afterall, but it's not working so well, if at all. Can Google or YouTube help you learn how to fix it safely? Do you know someone who might have the skill and be able to teach you? Can you access a course or workshop? Could you contact Bournemouth Repair Cafe for some help and take your items along to the next session?
3. Seek a service to mend: we are so lucky to have such a varied, knowledgeable and skilled selection of local repair services. Tailoring & Vintage Bournemouth have worked wonders on our coats, rucksacks, clothes and even sleeping bags; Grove Services have extended the life of my sandals and boots; JC Fry and Sons sorted out some headphones; Velo Domestique have kept my bike ticking over....then the Treasure House and Southbourne General Store have offered helpful advice and a selection of replacement parts and tools for DIY jobs, from stitching to gluing and stain removing. The list goes on....a quick search on SoBO for a range of local trades will confirm this! Feel free to post details of more you would recommend in the comments.
4. Pass it on: If you have no need for something that has more life in it, or potential to be fixed or upcycled by someone else, post details on Sobo Recycle or The Freecycle Network.
5. Recycle: If your items really have come to the end of their life, find out if there is a local recycling point - take a look at on the Sobo Wastebusters website, Millhams Recycling, RecycleNow or post in the Sobo Wastebusters Group for some ideas and advice.
6. Dispose responsibly: So all other options have been exhausted. Time to consult Millhams Tip.
And where to get a replacement? Still, before you go to the shops....
* can you borrow?
* can you buy second hand from a local shop or buy/sell group?
- do you actually really need it?!!!
Something for the weekend…..action #5: Inspire and be inspired; get involved, volunteer!
We are a small team volunteering our time. Outside of Sobo Wastebusters we have busy lives, juggling family and work commitments, whilst spinning various other plates. But we do what we can, when we can, because....well, we need to!
Our journeys have collided through passion for our planet; caring for our community; and concern for the future of all on Earth - for humanity and beyond.
We hope our work so far has provided you with inspiration and motivation; to adapt and change habits for the greater good of our environment.
Are you fishing recyclables out of bins yet?! Do you despair at the news of more and more negative consequences of climate change? Do you cry after watching Blue Planet? Are you infuriated or saddened (or both) by resistance to change? Do you seek comfort and camaraderie from others who feel the same? Can you lead by example? Do you have a burning desire to do more, but are not sure how?
Volunteer.
An hour, a day; as a one off, weekly, monthly or ad hoc. From home, online, in person. It can work (we are proof of that!) and the benefits can be immense.
There are so many local projects who depend on volunteers to keep them running. Be one of them! Here are a few to consider contacting:
Ideas2Action (delivering Win on Waste)
Dorset Devils
Leaveonlyfootprints_LOF
Plastic Free Bournemouth
Grounded Enterprises
Boscombe Community Fridge
Bournemouth Repair Cafe
Extinction Rebellion Bournemouth and Dorset
You may also like to get in touch with Transition Bournemouth and Bournemouth and Poole CVS to explore opportunities http://www.bournemouthcvs.org.uk/index.asp
Or maybe volunteer as a sustainability champion in your place of work, study and/or in your household? Can you help challenge the carbon footprint? Facilitate more effective waste management? Research sustainable swaps?
If you are running project and are looking for volunteers at the moment, feel free to comment and share details below.
Go, get inspired. And inspire others. Together we can make a difference.
People power. 🙌💚🌍
Something for the weekend…..action #6: Pre-empt, pack and pick up
Give this a go - leave it by your front door as a reminder to take with you on your way out. Even if you don't plan to grab a drink on the go or do some shopping!! The plan might change!
1 - Hot/cold drinks container for water....impromptu coffee stop? Down the water and fill up with the hot stuff. That's 1 less single use water bottle and 1 less single use coffee cup you will avoid circulating.
2 - Fed up with the sight of litter around you? Old gardening glove and empty cereal bag to do a 2 minute litter pick (see what I got in the park my children were playing in?). Place items in bin/recycling when you get home. Rinse out cereal bag and re-use or place in a carrier bag recycling point.
3 - Roll it all up in a canvas bag, with another squeezed in just in case and place in your main bag. It doesn't take up much room, does it? And that is potentially 3 plastic bags you will avoid picking up on your trip out.
4 - The power of positive role modelling. Don't moan about what you see; use that energy to drive positive change. Could your actions above inspire 4 other people to follow?
Lead by example. Lead for habitual change (not climate change).
Something for the weekend.....Action #7: Don’t panic; don’t be alone; do share and do what you can
If you are not already aware, this is #mentalhealthawarenessweek. What’s mental health got to do with waste reduction and climate change, I hear you say?
Eco-anxiety.
Yes, it is a thing. Psychology Today define this as “a fairly recent psychological disorder afflicting an increasing number of individuals who worry about the environmental crisis”. There was also a great show on Radio 4 about it. Do listen if you can.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/programmes/m00050qr
You are in this Group because you care; and those that care hear we should panic and fear the reality of climate change. But does this panic and fear fuel your passion and drive to make a difference? Or does it leave you feeling like a rabbit in the headlights, blinded and paralysed by the sheer magnitude of the issue?
Or maybe a bit of both; as if the steps you have already taken fall into insignificance as our fellow humans across the globe bear the brunt of the increasing frequency of 'natural' disasters; of waters bulging and swelling with plastic; of dry, baron lands that no longer flourish with the natural presence of water that once supported thriving and diverse communities of people and wildlife alike.
We agree, it is a terrifying situation. We feel that sense of urgency and powerlessness at the same time.
The key being WE. Not I. Not YOU.
WE are ALL responsible; at this stage of our human existence, there is so much positive action that can be (and is being) taken. But to be productive on this journey of sustainability, WE must work TOGETHER. And not just on the practical stuff. We must show care and compassion towards each other, too.
The phenomenal Extinction Rebellion cite ‘The Skill of Brokenheartedness in the wake of XR’; providing support “for those of you stirred, bereft, lost, angry, longing, unsettled, heartbroken, raw, unsure” through unified expression and simply being ‘present’.'
This holistic approach should be favoured by us all. Here in this Group, please enjoy the benefits of being around others who maybe feeling a range of thoughts and emotions described above. Let us not judge. Let us not fear of being judged. It is not a competition; to be so will only compound the sense of anxiety, helplessness and isolation some of us may be experiencing. We are all striving for the same thing. Keep doing what you can, when you can; you are wonderful!
Please feel free to share thoughts and feelings with us in the comments below, especially any coping strategies or tips you have found helpful in your journey. You are in good company.
But of course, we are not experts and if you are experiencing concerns relating to your mental health, please do consider speaking to your GP. Anxiety is a condition that affects 1 in 10 of us; there is help available. You can also self-refer to Steps2Wellbeing or find further information and advice through organisations such as Rethink Mental Illness and Anxiety UK (official). Keep well. Keep safe. Keep striving for change.
Something for the weekend.....Action #8: Grow your own naked cucumber....and more!
We have posted a few hints and tips over the last few months about growing your own veg; even some guerilla gardening to bring those neglected patches into bloom. Have you been joining in?
If you have been thinking about it, get a wiggle on, before the summer hits us! You still have time to sow seeds to grow your own naked cucumbers.....radishes, beetroot, fennel, chicory, peas.....
🥒🥒🥒🥒🥒🥒🥒🥒🥒🥒🥒🥒🥒🥒🥒🥒
🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅🍅
In fact, courgettes and tomatoes are mostly imported, so if you eat a lot of these, you can definately reduce your carbon footprint by growing your own! Take a look at the BBC climate change food tracker for more info.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-46459714
3 lots of celery have been sprouted and planted out...with another and a trial leak to follow! No seeds were required; the root ends were simply left to stand in a shallow pot of water until new leaves sprouted out the top. Growing on a budget.........✔✔✔✔
Of course, a garden is a luxury and if only have a small outside space, just choose a couple of items you tend to eat lots of and use a couple of pots. This Wastebuster household gets through a lot of carrots, so a couple of super large and deep pots are housing some carrot seeds which are coming along nicely.🥕🥕🥕🥕🥕🥕🥕
☀️If you don't have any outside space, why not take advantage of a sunny window sill? The nasturtians seem to like it here. Basil and corriander to follow.....☀️
Or why not get involved with some communal gardening with other residents if you share a garden....consider an allotment; or find out if there is a community garden nearby where you could lend a hand in exchange for some fresh veg.
Whatever your involvement, just get involved! After all, there are many advantages to growing your own:
⛟ Cut down emissions otherwise released during transportation of produce
⬇️ Reduce pesticides released into the environment by growing organically
❌ Eliminate excess packaging waste
💪 Get some physical exercise
💚 Nurture your mind as well as your crop
😋 It tastes good!
And while you're at it - consider composting if you can! Did you know BCP Council offer subsidised composters? See here for details. https://www.bournemouth.gov.uk/…/GetStartedWithHomeComposti…
If anyone has any hints, tips, seeds to swap, seedlings to give away or photos to show your progress - do share details below!!
Happy growing, happy Wastebusting!
🌻🍏🍐🍓🍅🍆🥔🍒🥜🥕🌽🌶🥒🥦🌻
Something for the weekend.....Action #9: Use your existing waste to reduce your future waste!
There is a lot of pressure these days to conform to a 'plastic free pantry' with neatly arranged glass jars; to have chintzy fabric alternatives to plastic bags, sponges and wipes laid stylishly in wicker baskets; and funky food and drink containers. And if you have young children, let's not forget cloth nappies, wipes and bamboo everything (!). Oh, and 'family cloth'.
Fine, if you have the disposable income to buy into this marketing trend. But let's not forget those 3 words, our mantra: refuse, reuse, recycle.
With a focus on REUSE.
With such intense marketing coupled with the urgency to change our consumer habits, it would be understandable if you were feeling overwhelmed about buying the right 'reuseable' gear to be totally plastic free as of yesterday. And hugely guilty if you don't have the practical means to follow suit. Either way, this is an unrealistic goal and could be holding you back on your journey to reducing waste and making you buy more stuff.
So let us take a moment to reflect on all the reusable items we may already have at home and get thrifty. But not for financial gain, actually. To REFUSE the marketing of what we should have; to REDUCE our single use waste - whether it is going in the bin, to someone else or off into the faraway land of recycling. Let's REUSE.
Keep old towels, flannels, tea towels can all be cut up and used to create wipes. For personal care like make up and baby wipes; but also for household cleaning.
🛏Grab those holey unwanted sheets and duvet covers - make a Morsbag with some help from Morsbags Sociable Guerilla Bagging!
♻️Keep used food and drink containers - jars, tubs, bags, bottles and re-fill with unpackaged produce and products. From washing up and laundry liquid at Earth Foods; loose leaf tea from That Brilliant Store; orange juice from TD Fruits; coffee from Velo Domestique; deli items from Deli Rocks Southbourne Bournemouth; shampoo bars from Live Kindly Eco Shop; pasta, grains, pulses, dried herbs dried fruit, soap nuts and lots more from Sunrise Organics - Vegan Health Store or Almond&Co. Bournemouth
.....you can even use tubs and bag type packaging from salad and frozen veg as a wet bag for cloth nappies, sanitary towels and wipes.
❄.....PLUS use tubs and jars to store leftovers in the fridge or freezer.....and to transport food on the go. Who needs a fancy lunch box?!
🍶 Do your plastic tumblers and water bottles really need replacing yet? Is there more life left or are you just eager to get the plastic stuff out of your house? Can you just be patient and use up that box of plastic straws? They may otherwise disappear from your kitchen, but they will still be very present on our planet.
👶Visit your local nappy library through Dorset Cloth Nappy Library & Community to find out about borrowing and buying second hand
Is there really any need to discard part used bottles of shampoo, toothbrushes that have plenty of life left etc etc.
You get the idea. Once you start thinking about it, this little audit of what you do have, may well vastly outweigh what you need.
And if you really truly don't have what you need, why not borrow or re-home items that may otherwise be discarded by friends, family, colleagues... even local neighbours. Pop onto Sobo Recycle with your request. We anticipate you will get a helpful response.
Living more sustainably is not just about changing products; it is a change in lifestyle. It is challenging at times, perhaps near on impossible, but don't panic if you can't be consistent. It doesn't have to be all or nothing.
By using just 1 cloth nappy a day, you could save 900 of the 5000 disposables it is estimated a child gets through.
1 less water bottle = 1000 less pieces of micro plastic added to the environment.
So.....be challenged but don't feel defeated. Keep going. Repeated positive steps result in positive habit changes. But you don't have to do it all at once.
In the end, you may not have a Pinterest perfect storage cupboards and a range of bold and funky prints on display at home or on your travels. But by using what you've got, or what others don't want, you have REFUSED, REDUCED and REUSED. And for that, we (and our planet) thank you. 👏💚🌍♻️🙏
Something for the weekend…..Action #10: Get on your bike!
To work; to school; to the shops; for pleasure, as a sport; or just, well, because:
- In 2015, the transport sector emitted 24% of the UK’s GHG emissions, and 29% of its CO2. Road transport (as opposed to air, rail etc.) accounted for 93% of CO2, most of this coming from passenger cars (62%).
- A dramatic, worldwide increase in cycling – from a current c.6% of all urban passenger miles to 11% in 2030 and 14% in 2050 – could cut CO2 emissions from urban passenger transport by about 7% by 2030, and nearly 11% in 2050.
- If people in England became as likely to cycle as people in the Netherlands, there would be around two million fewer car driving commuters. Consequently, English authorities could reduce CO2 outputs by over 1,500 tonnes a year on average. (Cycling UK)
In summary, cycling:
💚 is a zero-carbon method of transport
☑️ is low cost
🙂 will improve your mental health and wellbeing
🚴♀️ will improve your cardiovascular fitness
💓 promotes weight loss
🙌 is fun and sociable
😲 cuts out the time, cost and stress of driving and parking a car!
So, how about it then? Can you start cycling instead of getting the car? Could you cycle more? What is stopping you - can you overcome it?
We are fortunate to have the wonderful Velo Domestique on our highstreet, who will helpfully assist with keeping your bicycle in shape; or if you don’t have one, finding one that is right for you (new, custom built or second hand; hybrid, road, mountain, cargo, electric - all you need to do is set your budget!).
If you are a bit further down the road, don’t forget Bournemouth Cycleworks.
The cycle hire scheme through Beryl is rolling out from Bournemouth town centre too.
Also note the Kings Cycle Centre, hosting kids cycling courses (over 10s), adult cycling courses and bike maintenance workshops. via BCP Council. You might also want to link in with the Bournemouth Cycle Forum, for news, events and opportunities to get involved with improving cycling facilities across Bournemouth.
If you feel a bit nervous getting on your bike, why not pair up with someone who feels more confident, for tips, encouragement and reassurance? Or visit Sustrans for advice and guidance.
On Saturday 8th June, there will be a gentle evening cycle from Boscombe Pier https://www.cyclinguk.org/event/bike-week-boscombe-pier-hengistbury-head-sunset-ride
Or consider a cycling social organised by Velo Domestique. If you would like to cycle more in a sporting capacity, there are plenty of clubs about such as Bournemouth Jubilee Wheelers. Please feel free to drop details of others in the comments.
Whatever your destination, let’s continue our journey fighting climate change together. On our bikes!
#climatechange
#commitmenttocycling
#bikeweek2019
Something for the weekend.....Action #11: Wastebust your water
My own child informed me this week:
💧 each of us, on average, get through 80 litres of water a day
💧 having a shower for 5 minutes will still use significantly less water than your average bath
( Waterwise paid a visit to the school!)
It feels like it has been raining all week, so saving water may be far from the forefront of your mind. But according to Wessex Water, in 2018, demand for water soared by 20% in our region when temperatures were their highest; yet between May and October we only saw 60% of what would be expected for the time of year.
With rising summer temperatures predicted owing to climate change, conserving water will be high on the agenda for water suppliers; and it should be on ours, as individuals, too.
A major source of emissions is from using hot water within homes. Reducing the time you shower or the amount of hot water you use for cleaning dishes therefore has a significant impact on your personal carbon footprint (Waterwise).
So, if you haven't already, wouldn't this have been a great week to have a water butt to collect our precious resource? Plants and pond life prefer it. If you don't already have one but have outdoor storage space, BCP Council offer water butts at a subsidised rate, see here for more information. https://getcomposting.com/profile/login.
Here are some other water wastebusting tips:
🖼 GARDEN
Always water garden plants in the early mornings or evenings when it is cooler so less is lost to evaporation.
Put saucers under plant containers to catch run off.
Choose plants that thrive in dry conditions - lavender, rosemary, lemon thyme and common sage are good examples of those you can also use in cooking, saving on unnecessary packaging too!
🍽 KITCHEN
Only wash a full load in your dishwasher and/or washing machine.
Only fill the kettle with the water you will use for that cuppa!
Reduce the amount of meat you cook (if applicable!); 15,415 litres of water are required to produce 1 kg of beef. Only 322 litres of water are required to grow 1 kg of vegetables or 650 litres of water per 1 kg of wheat.
🛀 BATHROOM
Take the 4 minute challenge for shower times; or reduce your bath by an inch of water.
Don't be tempted to leave the tap running while you brush your teeth or lather soap up on your hands (how did we get into that habit?! Thank you Southbourne Library for pointing out the handwashing fact, as photographed).
Check your loo - 30% of household water usage is from flushing alone! Install a Cistern Displacement Device if you don't have a dual flush - often FREE from water suppliers.
These are small examples that can make a big difference; you will contribute to:
🌳 Making more water available for the natural environment
⬇️ Reducing energy used in treating water
✅ Creating less carbon emissions created from treating and transporting water.
(Wessex Water)
There are plenty more options, depending on your circumstances. Feel free to share tried and tested examples in the comments. Let's continue to learn from each other.
Something for the weekend.....Action #12: Just pick it up
Litter. It is irritating and disappointing to see it flying about. It is infuriating and disheartening to witness someone purposefully dropping it. However, moaning about litter will not make it disappear (nor will the wind).
The Great British Spring Clean - now the country's biggest mass-action environmental campaign - was organised by the charity Keep Britain Tidy this year. There were 17,097 clean-ups; and 957,377 bags of litter collected. This involved people donating 1.1 million hours litter picking. But what a result.
We are fortunate to have passionate community driven groups like Dorset Devils and Leaveonlyfootprints_LOF who organise local litter picks. But what if you are unable to join them? What about the litter lying around in the time in between them? What about the areas they don't cover?
So why wait until someone else organises one? If you see a plastic bag flying past you, grab it. If you hear a can rolling across the path, pick it up. Remove that crisp packet sitting in the bush (and take it to Win on Waste....♻️).
Whether you pick up 1 item or a bin bag full, your efforts will make a difference by:
🦊🐀🦔🐇🐕
1. Removing items that could endanger wildlife - RSPCA are responding to 1,500 calls about litter-related incidents affecting animals every year (KBT)
⚠️☢🤢👎❌⬇️
2. Lessen the amount of waste degrading and toxins absorbed into the earth, foliage and ground water.
🌊🏞😍🌱🌳🌿
3. Maintain the natural beauty of our area.
💁♂️💁♀️👍🤜🤛✅
4. Inspire others to do the same, resulting in more litter being disposed of appropriately.
👀💚💬💭🚮♻️
5. Influence those who are less environmentally aware and cultivate a more caring culture.
You can then also take a few moments to bathe in feeling good about yourself. You have done an awesome thing 🙌.
The Wastebusters crew will be out and about, in and around Southbourne on Monday (24th June), individually, doing a mini litter pick, as we often do. We invite you to join us in spirit and take the same action - on your way to work or college; the school run; on your break.....whenever you can. Take some before and after pics; what did you find? Was it your first litter pick - what was it like? Share your photos and experience with us!!
The start of a great Sobo litter pick?!! (To be continued.....)
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❗Picking up litter can be done any time, any place, to an extent - but be sensible. Don't pick up any sharp objects without appropriate equipment or forage around undergrowth without appropriate gloves and/or a litter grabber....there could be glass, needles or other hazardous items lurking. Just saying.
Something for the weekend.....Action #13: Celebrate and encourage
SOBO Wastebusters met up with Dorset and Hampshire Eco Club this week. It is always wonderful to meet others striving to take such positive action; it provides space to share and encourage; celebrate what we are doing; and recharge our ambitions when energy levels feel a little depleted.
We are after all, every day folk who just want to do good for the future of our people and planet. Support and encouragement is crucial to the success of this kind of work. Constantly pushing boundaries, challenging fixed, uncompromising views and misinformation; sometimes it can feel slow and tiresome, futile even.
This weekend, why not take a moment to acknowledge what / who motivates and inspires you to do the same?
There are 2 upcoming award ceremonies celebrating the work of individuals and groups in the community who are making efforts to recycle more and go plastic free:
1. Organised by Ideas2Action, the Recycling Awards take place on Friday 27 September at 7pm in Poole Civic Centre. If you know of any individuals of any age, teams of people, schools or organisations (voluntary, statutory and private) who you feel go the extra mile when it comes to recycling, please consider nominating them (with their permission). You can of course nominate yourselves! If you do decide to submit a nomination (forms available on the website), it really helps the judges if you can give us as much information as possible about your nominee and why you think they deserve an award for their recycling. http://www.ideas2action.org.uk
2. Plastic Free Awards:
Organised by Surfers Against Sewage and held in Bristol in November 2019; this event is celebrating the efforts of those making the biggest contributions to stopping plastic pollution. From local community champions, innovators, campaigners and other leaders across the UK. There are multiple categories - from 'Plastic Free Hero' to 'Plastic production re-innovation'. For more information, visit https://pfa.pixedo.co.uk/.
So who might you nominate? Or who would you simply like to mention, to acknowledge the contributions they make? Tell us about them!
And a big shout out to all those we are fortunate enough to be working alongside (you know who you are 😉).
To everyone who takes an interest in what Sobo Wastebusters do - keep doing what you're doing; however big or small. Set goals and strive to do better; but be realistic and give yourselves and others a pat on the back now and again. Big love. 💚🙌
Something for the weekend.....Action #14: Stop cleaning fish to death
How clean is your house? Sparkling? Or homely and just fine...until you disturb the dust? 😂
Cleaning is not always a priority and we all have different standards. However most of us do it at some point. But products you may consider your friend in this task may well be foe to our environment - packaging and ingredients alike. They both biodegrade, polluting water and all aquatic life within it - consequently entering the food chain.....and so it continues.....to us.
There are many products claiming to be 'eco friendly' as part of the green marketing trend. Ask yourself - just how safe are they? What exactly are the ingredients and are they from a sustainable source? Are they made in the UK or shipped from overseas? What research are these claims based on? What packaging are they sold in - can it be recycled? Are you duplicating what you need - do you really need a separate bathroom and kitchen cleaner? Does our toilet really need to be clean enough to eat our dinner from?!
Non toxic, homemade cleaning recipes seem to be saturating TV and social media streams with the best of intentions. Sadly the advice can often be inaccurate; and mixing chemicals, even as seemingly harmless as vinegar and bicarb should not be done. The chemical reactions could be a hazard to our health and/ or negate the efficacy of the product you end up with. So just as you think you're winning, you are (perhaps unknowingly) losing 😔.
However, the principle of going back to basics is a good one👍.
😁Therefore you might like to consider the following items as one stop alternatives:
✅ White vinegar (a daily go to, consider investing in a 5L bottle of it, available at the Southbourne General Store. Yes it is plastic, but this can be recycled).
✅ Bicarbonate of soda (has a multitude of uses, invest in a large box of it, also available at Southbourne General Store and Wilko. It is in cardboard packaging).
✅ Citric acid (sounds harsher than it is - equivalent of what you find in citrus fruits - and is in cardboard packaging. Works wonders on limescale and can be mixed up into a spray as an alternative to using white vinegar as an all purpose cleaner. Also avavailable from Southbourne General Store and Wilko. Did we say it was in cardboard packaging? Winning).
✅ Household soap (nifty little stain remover this one; sold as a bar in NO PACKAGING!!!!!! - from Southbourne General Store. Have a lie down if you need to).
✅ Liquid soap (pure and simple and can be diluted to make all sorts; from a handwash, to laundry and floor cleaner. Available from Southbourne General Store and Wilko. Sorry - this is in a plastic bottle...but it can be recycled).
✅ Soda Crystal's (another versatile alternative to items such as bleach and oven cleaners. Available from Southbourne General Store and Wilko. The packaging cannot be recycled at this stage, but the manufacturer is trialling other materials...fingers x).
Now what to do with the above? We are not scientific cleaning experts; so please do not ask us for such advice. But let us inform you of the following sources of safe, reliable, information and guidance:
https://www.dri-pak.co.uk
https://www.robertdyas.co.uk/blog/42-easy-cleaning-tips
We hope this post inspires you to consider alternative options for cleaning and the like. If you're still not sure, check out this article:
https://www.dri-pak.co.uk/how-do-you-clean-your-loo/
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♻️Remember - reduce, reuse and recycle♻️
Please don't just ditch what you have already. Pouring it down the sink won't make it disappear! Use it up, then make the swap, if this is what you decide to do - and hang onto any spray / squirty bottles and large jars to decant ingredients into!
Something for the weekend.....Action #15: Batteries and more: be kerbside ready
❌It is not okay to chuck batteries in the bin.❌
Batteries contain chemicals including lead, cadmium, zinc, lithium and mercury.
Once in landfill, toxic chemicals leak into the ground. Both soil and water become contaminated, which is harmful to wildlife and humans.
So really, please don't do it. Not even a single teeny tiny one.
According to Let's Recycle, the UK's approx recycling rate of batteries was 44% last year. That is a lot of batteries left out. We, as consumers, need to play our part.
So if you have a collection of HOUSEHOLD* batteries sitting around (AA, AAA, button and rechargeable batteries etc), disposing of them safely is easier than you think:
1. If you live in Bournemouth, simply bag the batteries up and leave them on top of your recycling bin. Label if not clear. Yes, they will be collected from your doorstep!
2. Pop them to a local collection point - at Southbourne Library or Beaufort Community Centre - in fact most supermarkets and larger chain stores such as Boots host one if you live further afield.
That's it. Job done. Almost....
⚠️ Next time you go to buy a product requiring batteries, consider:
🤷♀️🤷♂️ Do I really need this product? Would another item suffice (particularly when it comes to kids toys).
✅✅ Is there an alternative option which is mains, solar powered or fitted with a winding mechanism? (from fairy lights, bicycle lights and torches; to portable radios).
♻️♻️ If neither of the above are feasible, invest in rechargeable batteries.
*for advice about disposing of other types of battery, see https://www.recyclenow.com/what-to-do-with/batteries-1.
Did you also know in Bournemouth the following SMALL electrical items are included in kerbside collections:
• Small kitchen appliances – kettles, sandwich makers, electric scales
• Small living room equipment – clocks, telephone and answering machines
• Small domestic equipment – irons, smoke alarms, heat detectors
• Personal care equipment – rechargeable electric toothbrushes (excluding battery powered), shavers, hair dryers, razors
• Small DIY/garden tools – drills and sanders
• Gadgets - cameras, mp3 players and mobiles
• Electrical wire/extension leads
Again, just leave them on top of your recycling bin on your allocated collection day. For more info see https://www.bournemouth.gov.uk/…/RecyclingElectricalGadgets…
Of course, if you have one of the above items that still works, pop in on Sobo recycle if it doesn't work, consider taking it along to the next Bournemouth Repair Cafe to see if it can be revived....with the next one coming up on Saturday 20th July…..💚♻️💪🤞
Something for the weekend....Action #16: Reduce harmful waste in our indoor air
Air pollution. Mostly talked about in the context of the air we breath outside. For example, traffic emissions. Defra state 'Petrol and diesel-engined motor vehicles emit a wide variety of pollutants, principally carbon monoxide (CO), oxides of nitrogen (NOx), volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and particulate matter (PM10), which have an increasing impact on urban air quality.'
But what is going on inside your home? Particularly when you reach for some 'ocean breeze', 'fresh cotton' or 'citrus fizz' to 'cleanse' the air of less pleasant odours - via a spritz of air freshener or scented candle? Well typically, most commercially produced, synthetic scented products contain VOCs too - some benzene, formaldehyde, propellants, solvents, benzenes, and synthetic musks, among others. These chemicals can be easily inhaled; land on the skin and be absorbed; or even accidentally ingested.
Not so appealing, eh? The waste products released into our homes are harmful to our physical health; and the often excessive, non recyclable packaging becomes another contributor to household waste, which is harmful to our environment.
So what are the alternatives? Firstly, simply open the window.
If preferred, perhaps also consider:
💚 the humble deodourising power of bicarbonate of soda.
Just pour some in a small dish and place discreetly to absorb odours - in the loo, even in the fridge! Add the ashes of incense (waste not!) or some scented oil for a delicate aroma. You could even use bits of old tights to contain measures of bicarb and hang in wardrobes, cupboards, drawers, shoes etc; sprinkle on carpets, leave overnight, then vacuum, to freshen them up. Large, cardboard boxes of it are sold in Southbourne General Store.
🍋 the natural fresh and zesty scent of a real lemon infused in vinegar or water.
Chop lemons, place in jar, pour over boiled or distilled water with/ without white vinegar; stew, strain and decant into spray bottle. Net free lemons from TD Fruits.
🌿 the refreshing powers of rosemary.
Fill spray bottle with cooled, boiled or distilled water and add drops of rosemary essential oil. Or infuse some fresh rosemary in boiled water, strain and decant into a bottle. Essential oils can be found in Earth Foodss.
🕯'clean' burning of a natural beeswax or soy wax candle made with essential oils. Southbourne's very own Nellie Mimosa still lives on - find them online!
🌿 bunches of dried herbs such as lavender and rosemary dotted around the home. Place in an upcycled container. Anyone have any cuttings going spare from their garden?
🌱 houseplants including Aloe Vera, Snake plant (Mother in Laws Tongue), spider plants and English Ivy, play a part in absorbing toxins and purifying the air inside our homes. Pop along to Stewarts Garden Centres (who also provide a plastic pot recycling scheme).
There are plenty of simple, non toxic recipes online. But why not share some tried and tested air cleansing solutions in the comments below - and inspire someone to reach for a less wasteful alternative, for their health, your health and our planet. 🌎
Something for the weekend....Action #17: Sharing the load; show NO DIFFERENCE
This weekend is the Southbourne Revival event. Reliant on volunteers, this is about community fun and enjoyment. It is not for them, it is for US ALL.
Community events are wonderful; it brings people together and helps tackle loneliness and isolation. But for the logistics to work, we all need to pull together, where we can - for the fun and the less desirable but necessary tasks that enable it to happen.
An increasing number of photos appear to be doing the rounds on social media, showing before and after pictures of events; some are horrifying and despairing, with a trashed, litter ridden site left behind. But others display an idyllic vision of NO DIFFERENCE before and after. The land is left as it were.
Sobo Wastebusters are unable to participate as much as we would like at Southbourne Revival; we are 5 individuals with busy lives, juggling work and other voluntary commitments with family and the like. We cannot be everywhere; but what we strive to do is impart knowledge, ideas and ambition to adapt all of our individual expectations, actions and attitudes when it comes to caring for our environment. To enable everyone to be a Wastebuster, in Southbourne and beyond.
So please, this weekend, whether you are going to Southbourne Revival or not; reduce, reuse, recycle. Prepare and participate by:
1. Taking your own resuable cup, straw, cutlery and container around with you, for any refreshments and food you might purchase.
2. Packing multiple bags in case you make any impromptu purchases.
3. Including a bag for taking any rubbish home with you; and a separate one for items that could be recycled.
4. Tackling litter you see on the floor, by picking up a minimum of 3 items and disposing of them responsibly.
Imagine how much waste could be saved through everyone embracing these 4 simple actions? Can the before and after pictures of Fishermans Walk show NO DIFFERENCE?
We should all assume responsibility for our environment. If that means extending this to others who refuse or are unable to, than we must; because ultimately, we will all suffer the same consequences. Waste impacts on climate. Climate impacts on us all. Linked is a shocking article about water shortage in Zimbabwe. Could this be our community one day?
Being angry or resentful does not change the situation; nor will ignoring the problem and assuming someone else will deal with it. But being proactive will.
Thanking you. Thanking us. Strive to do better; strive for change. For our planet.🙏
https://www.climatechangenews.com/…/two-million-zimbabwes…/…
Something for the weekend....Action #18: Keep pushing for change to plug the plastic source
According to the National Geographic, only a fifth of global plastic waste is actually recycled. Sickening, isn't it?
The zero waste challenge is being taken on by more and more people. This is fantastic and we must praise their efforts.
It can feel hard enough trying to make the most minor adaptations on the journey there; banishing all single use plastic waste from our households is an uphill battle.
The simple solution is to just stop buying over packaged, plastic covered products.
When it comes to food shopping, you may be thinking 'I simply don't have the time and the budget to shop around for alternative products' and many would agree. For those of us who really want to make a difference, this is a despairing situation.
This does not end your ability to make a difference though; do not excuse yourself from doing anything about it!
Supermarkets heavily contribute to the swell in waste from packaging. However, we, as consumers, have the power to influence the (over) packaging crisis by reducing the demand for it and through:
1. Setting up new campaigns; joining existing ones.
2. Sharing feedback with the very shops and supermarkets who restrict our choices of plastic free shopping.
We try to share relevant petitions and local campaign actions through our social media channels - please feel free to share in the Group also!
If anyone has any campaign ideas, but is unsure where to start - shout out in the Group and start a conversation. You never know where it may lead or the impact these ideas could have otherwise!
Now go! In the time it took to read the next post in your newsfeed, you could have posted a few words to your local supermarket chain already.... and time is of the essence. Marine life is drowning in plastic. At this rate, our children will too.
*https://www.nationalgeographic.com/…/plastic-planet-waste-…/
Something for the weekend....Action #19: Ditch the plastic water bombs
Now the wind and rain blows in, let's take a moment to reflect. We have been experiencing a prolonged spell of warm weather. Cooling down the kids has been a must; but must we continue to reach for the water bombs?
Sure, they provide instant cooling relief and fun; but this is temporary and short lived. For us humans anyway.
The broken, discarded pieces stay on (even if you hide them in the bin).
On a recent camping trip in the New Forest, we founded tiny pieces of water bombs molded around blades of grass, evidently melted into little mounds. This is not good for the land nor wildlife foraging for food. We all know the choking risk balloons pose to babies and young children. A bird or small mammal would not stand a chance.
Then again, a day out at the Quomps splash park up the road, displayed an array of teeny plastic splashes of colour, nicely moulding themselves into the grass and concrete.....more of which no doubt sailed into the drains. Nice bit of plastic polluted water in the making. We managed to pick out some in what felt like a futile attempt to clear up the mess, as pictured (amongst other litter).
Something for the weekend....Action #20: Review and Recycle right
It may feel like there is a fine art to recycling; but simply, sorting is the key. Collections contaminated with items which cannot be recycled can end up going into general waste streams. Not good news.
Therefore we all need to take responsibility at the point of collection. Whether it be in a domestic, commercial or other facility.
Part of this process is educating ourselves. Sobo Wastebusters aim to assist with this; we are familiar with the minefield of recycling - where, when, how...whaaat?!!! It can get very confusing! So here are a few resources you might find helpful:
Our website!
www.sobowastebusters.com
Where you can find useful links, ideas and a directory of local recycling points. This directory is a work in progress - please share any updates and information you may have to contribute!
BCP Council
https://www.bournemouth.gov.uk/binsre…/BinsandRecycling.aspx
They provide more details than you might think on their website about all aspects of waste management, including local authority recycling facilities across Bournemouth - from car batteries, to garden waste and textiles. You can even ask for free assistance with a green audit in your workplace!
Recycle Now
www.recyclenow.com
Provides extensive online advice, information about recycling symbols; a directory to help you identify where items can be taken nationally; and how to reduce your waste. This is where we discovered the immense list of items that can go in plastic bag recycling points!
Ideas2Action
www.ideas2action.org.uk
They bring us Win on Waste collection points across Bournemouth, Poole and Christchurch; taking things our Council don't - from toothbrushes to biscuit wrappers. They also provide the 'We need that!' directory and other community recycling projects.
TerraCycle UK
www.terracycle.com/en-GB/
This is a private recycling firm, partnering up with an increasing number of big brands and manufacturers to tackle packaging waste generated from everyday products. From pet food, to tobacco pouches; crisp packets to craft items. Use their online search facility to find out about all the schemes, collection point locations - and how to set up a collection yourself! It is easier than you might think - give it a go!
There will of course be plenty more resources out there, but these are ones we typically draw on and find most helpful.
We wish you happy reading; and more effective recycling ♻️♻️♻️
Further, there was the TV advert for some contraption that fills up seemingly 100s of water balloons at the same time. I nearly keeled over.
Please don't be green washed into thinking 'biodegradable water balloons' are any better; as under the right conditions, they would eventually, after a year or so, appear to vanish - but have they really disappeared or just broken down into micro plastics, unseen to the human eye? The micro plastics most likely to already be saturating into the ground, into the ground water and food chain as they end up into the bellies of birds, insects, microorganisms and beyond.
FACT: A new study has found that balloons are the highest-risk plastic debris item for seabirds — 32 times more likely to kill than ingesting hard plastics.*
So next time, if you or someone you know reach for a packet of these fun time treats....please think again. Consider a different activity that doesn't involve single use plastic; and avoid this mini disaster in your own turf. On our turf. Because it is our land and we need to look after it, if it is to look after us.
If you would like to know more about the wider issues around the relationship between land preservation and climate change, you may like to read this article https://www.theguardian.com/…/climate-crisis-reducing-lands…
*Taken from the article https://www.sciencedaily.com/releas…/2019/…/190301084847.htm
Something for the weekend....Action #21:
Put the date in your diary - join us on SUNDAY 29th SEPTEMBER from 11am - 4pm!
If you didn't know already, we are planning an ECO FAYRE at Fisherman's Walk, in the heart of Southbourne.
Our aim is to bring local groups, businesses, organisations and individuals together; to celebrate all the work around sustainability being done; learn how we can do better; and build community links so we can drive the agenda forward in our local area and beyond.
We have received many stall holder applications. There will be a diverse range of information, advice and guidance on hand, with some live and interactive demonstrations; in addition to eco friendly products, yummy food and refreshments for sale.
Just bring an open mind, along with your reusable bags, cups, food boxes and cutlery!
So whether you have adopted a zero waste lifestyle in your family; embarked on a commercial waste reduction plan; or are just starting out on your wastebusting journey, please do JOIN US!
And you could do this in 2 ways:
🖐 Lend a hand - all the event planning and organisation is down to volunteers. Whether you have a little or a lot of time to spare. If you would like to be part of this ambitious and inspiring team, please contact us on [email protected].
🖐🖐 Drop in and bring others with you - family, friends, colleagues; sustainability is everyone's business. Young, or less young, we all need to be taking positive action to preserve our planet. Let's put Southbourne on the map as a community paving the way and inspire others to get on board.
We look forward to meeting you all in September. Let's do this TOGETHER! 🙌
Something for the weekend....Action #22: Think about lunch boxes
The lunch box is an important tool to reducing waste; both the box itself and all future contents. A staple since school and with a market now so vast, the mind boggles when choosing a new one. For adults and children.
FIRSTLY - why the need to continually buy new ones? INVEST in one for life. For you and your kids, if you should have them. Or REUSE what you have!
So far this steel lunchbox pictured has lasted one 7 year old over a year. Light, robust, compact but roomy enough; it is easily cleaned at the end of each use, with no musty, manky, build up of unpleasant odour in previous lined lunch 'bags' which featured brightly coloured characters no longer a favourite after about 5mins....and eventually had to be binned within 6 months despite attempts to clean and deodourise. It is also used interchangeably across different family members beyond the school hours. A winner.
On the other hand, this 3 year old has survived just fine with repurposed (and decorated 🙃) single use plastic boxes, complete with a canvas bag found amongst a stash already at home. The habit of reusing rather than buying new is normal and natural to this young Wastebuster. It is so important we facilitate positive attitudes and expectations amongst new and future generations. Start them young!
SECONDLY - the point of a lunch box is to provide a protective, portable means of containing food on the go. So why fill it with so many pre-packaged products? The supermarket shelves bulge and lure with their brightly coloured goodies of convenience, mini packs of crisps, biscuits, fruit, veg. Tempting?
Turn your attention to images of land and water bulging with all that packaging strewn across social media.
Instead, consider the following:
✅ Buy larger packs of the lunchbox items you would normally buy; crisps, crackers, dried fruit, malt loaf, yoghurt, cheese instead of multipacks....they can all be decanted into smaller pots, wrapped in wax or fabric wraps. Or could dry items even just go straight in the lunchbox? This may not eliminate packaging but it reduces it - especially if you are in a position to buy in bulk from a zero waste store.
✅ Schedule a few extra minutes each week to chop up fruit and veg in bulk. Freeze and take out when required. Or store in jars with a little lemon juice in the fridge, to preserve for a few extra days. Make it part of your routine and it will become a habit, not a hassle.
✅ Whizz up some dips and dressings in bulk - hummus, guacamole, sour cream and chive...honey and mustard, balsamic, garlicky tahini and lemon....again, reuse glass jars to make and store them in. If you plan on making some for dinner one night anyway, just make extra.
✅ Popcorn, muffins, granola, flapjacks, 'energy' balls (packed with seeds and dried fruit) are far quicker to make from scratch than you might think. And make a healthier alternative to the stuff boxed up.
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If sandwiches are your thing - don't forget bread bags are accepted by Win on Waste, other Terracycle collections and supermarket carrier bag collection points! Unless of course you are in the fortunate position to bake loaves yourself or visit one of the many local bakeries we are lucky to have in Southbourne, that will offer you produce in a paper bag or pop in straight in your own reusable bag.
So just do a quick search of zero waste lunch box ideas via Ecosia to find lots of inspiring recipes, lunch plans and other ideas. Or share in the comments below.
Before you know it, you'll develop better lunch box habits that keep you and those you prep them for healthier; your planet healthier; and make you an inspiration to others!
Something for the weekend....Action #23: Take part in second hand September; and beyond
If you haven't seen the Secondhand September campaign, now is the time to read up and crack on.
We have an abundance of charity shops in Southbourne. Clothes, furniture, toys, soft furnishings, crockery, chintz and more - what may be old to someone else can be new to you.
If it is just clothes you're into, with a weakness for a more boutique-y second hand shopping experience, check out the fabulous The Charity Rail on Pokesdown Hill/Boscombe East. You can also pick up some gorgeous hand made lavender shoe fresheners - all made with scrap fabric and lavender donated from local gardens. #wastebusting #winning
And don't forget the other options....shops locally, such as Bournemouth's Vintage Emporium, The Crooked Book; arrange a clothes swap with friends (us Wastebusters had lots of fun laughing at the totally unsuitable; and rejoicing in the totally suitable swaps among us); or go online using Facebook Groups / Marketplace, Ebay, Gumtree and more.
You can also make use of many of the above options if you are having a clear out. There are multiple local tailors around to assist with any clothes that need fixing or altering; or have a go yourself!
♻️ Any clothes that are truly knackered can be bundled up and taken to the textile recycling point in the Woodside Road carpark (see https://www.bournemouth.gov.uk/…/NeighbourhoodRecyclingCent… for other locations across Bournemouth) - unless the fabric could be used as scrap for an upcycling project? Pictured is a very cute lavender filled bunny made from old cashmere jumpers, purchased from the aforementioned The Charity Rail (sorry, it was the last one for sale 😬. But may it provide some inspiration! 🐰🐰🐰).
Of course, shopping second hand may be second nature to many of you. Either way, whether your motivation is to save money or save the planet, here are 4 facts to help you review your buying of brand new clothes:
❌ Every week 11 million items of clothing are sent to landfill in the UK.
‼The emissions from new clothes bought in the UK each month are greater than those from a plane flying around the world 900 times (Oxfam)
‼‼The UN says that by 2050 the equivalent of almost three planets could be required to provide the natural resources needed to sustain current lifestyles given the growth in global population.
✅ By buying second hand, you are setting an example that challenges throwaway culture. Imagine if more of us did this? Could we create a cultural shift?
Sobering.
#secondhandseptember. For you. For your kids. For everyone.
Something for the weekend....Action #24: ❤ your old bags
With the help of some fabulous volunteers (you know who you are!), we are proud to offer live upcycling at the upcoming Eco Fayre (29th September at Fisherman's Walk, Southbourne). The focus will be on making bags out of donated fabric.
As efforts are made to reduce (and rid of) the use of plastic bags across the UK, marketing of bags made of alternative materials (paper, cotton, polyester and more) has risen. They are everywhere. Which can be handy if you get caught out with no spare and shopping to pack.
But really, how many bags do we need?
What are they made of and how is the material produced - is it sustainable, or does it carry a high carbon footprint which is potentially more polluting than plastic bags?
How much of the marketing is simply greenwashing to lure us into buying more?
In a recent post from Morsbags Sociable Guerilla Bagging:
"According to a Danish study*, unless a newly produced reusable bag is consistently used for at least 11.5 years, it won’t offset the fact that manufacturing these types of bags creates 606 times as much water pollution as making a plastic bag...and...a UK government study echoes the fact that cotton and canvas tote bags have an enormous carbon footprint because they require more resources to produce and distribute... and "in terms of air and water contamination, cotton bags are worse than plastic bags."
*https://mst.dk/…/publikationer/pub…/2018/mar/plastposer-lca/
So. How can you Wastebust your way out of this situation?
✅ Ensure you have a spare bag or 2 rolled up into the main bag(s) you use at all times - add it to your mental list of PHONE, KEYS, WALLET, SPARE BAG!
✅ Use what you have got until it functions no more. REUSE to the max!
✅ Shop second hand. REUSE someone else's unused! Make the most of what is already in circulation.
✅ Make your own bags with fabric you or others have stashed away; this includes repurposing old clothes, duvet covers, pillow cases, curtains or any other fabric items you have. Try a NO SEW bag out of an old T-Shirt (do a quick search on Ecosia to find DIY tutorials online). REUSE what you can!
✅ Pop along to the upcycling stall at the Sobo Eco Fayre for inspiration and sewing tips.
If you're all set to go, go make - for you, family, friends. Or get involved with the Morsbag project to reach out to even more people.
Simply, REUSE REUSE REUSE & ❤ YOUR OLD BAGS!
Something for the weekend....Action #25: Getting your workplace greener
❗️More than 80% of natural disasters are caused by Climate Change.
❗️It is predicted that the UK will face damage to infrastructure from storms and flooding, regular periods of drought and an increase in heat related deaths due to dangerously hot summers in our cities. It will harm living and working conditions (TUC: Greener Deals)
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This week UNISON have been promoting the TUC Green Workplaces agenda through their ‘Green Week’ campaign. https://www.unison.org.uk/events/green-unison-week/
Information features the following:
Half of UK carbon emissions are produced by work activity:
- Workplaces burn energy, consume resources and generate waste and travel - for some, the most significant contributory factors are said to be from vehicle emissions arising from commuting to / from the workplace and meetings.
- Potentially improve morale and productivity – 60% of UK employees say it’s important tot work for a company that has an active policy to reduce its carbon emissions (YouGov survey 2007).
🤷♀️Where do you start? 🤷♂️What can you do?
Do a walk around; what do you see?
Are there plastic free swaps to be made?
Can resources be purchased from sustainable suppliers?
Can bottled water coolers be exchanged for mains water coolers?
Are all current resources necessary - can you REDUCE or REUSE?
Are there visible and accessible recycling points available? ♻️
What happens to food waste?
What energy supplier is used?
🚲 How many people cycle to work - are there adequate facilities to park and lock bikes up? Are there any car shares organised?
Before you know it, you’ll have a comprehensive list to use as a starting point.
Don’t try and do it on your own or overload yourself; plan, list and record ideas and achievements, big or small. Raise staff awareness and encourage behavioural change; as TUC point out, true sustainability is a team effort and cannot be achieved without the active co-operation and interest of all. Get everyone engaged - clients & customers; colleagues; senior management; HR and Facility / Maintenance departments.
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Is anyone doing this already? Share your experience - have you any tips or advice? What has worked well, or not so well?
So whether you’re a paid employee, volunteer, working independently or as part of a wider team - the UK Climate Change Act 2008 sets a target for an 80% reduction in CO2 emissions by 2050; and 34% by 2020.
BCP Council has declared a Climate Emergency and has a goal to be carbon neutral by 2030; and an ambition for the BCP region to be carbon neutral before 2050.
These goals will only be achieved through collaborative action. Be part of it!💚💪🌎
Something for the weekend....Action #26: Help us to help you and the wider community. Spread the word about the @Sobo Eco Fayre
Sunday 29th September - our Eco Fayre is just around the corner - have you cleared your diary? Told everyone you know? Planned to bring friends and family along? Packed your zero waste kit?!*
🌧💨It's a bit windy....but the @Sobo Eco Fayre WILL go ahead in the Sports Hall of Bournemouth Collegiate School (BH5 2DY). It is only about a 10min walk down the road from Fishermans Walk. Less if you cycle 🚲.
Weather conditions will continue to escalate globally due to climate change. So we must all take steps to slow it down. See you Sunday, where you can learn how?
The planet is in crisis. We cannot resolve all the damage done; but we can all play a part in damage limitation. We need to. Why? Friends of the Earth share a few poignant facts:
❗️Climate change impacts are happening now and are increasing in severity and likelihood – from floods in Asia and Europe to droughts and hurricanes in the USA.
❗️Climate change is affecting people here in the UK – as flooding will continue to get worse.
❗️The task is urgent – it is what happens between now and 2030 that overwhelmingly determines whether we can keep to 1.5°C, and save as many lives and livelihoods as possible.
❗️There is over 95% certainty that human influence is the dominant factor in warming since the mid 20th century.
Read up on more in depth, evidence based facts from IPCC. But more importantly, act now. We are trying to highlight the smaller steps we as every day folk can take to get the ball rolling. Before you know it you will be doing more. Which is just as well. As our future depends on it.🌎🌍🌏
“People are suffering. People are dying. Entire ecosystems are collapsing. We are in the beginning of a mass extinction." (Greta Thunberg)
See you on Sunday, where we can all learn how we can do more, together. From 11am.
*Remember to bring your own cup and food container for drinks, lunch and snacks! And a bag for any spontaneous purchases!
Something for the weekend....Action #27: What to do about white goods
It's not uncommon to see an old washing machine nestled among other items in a fly tipping spot...dumped, or otherwise, waiting to be disposed of outside someone's house.
"The average UK household spends £800 a year on household electrical items, and as a country, annually, we throw away 1.4 million tonnes of waste electrical and electronic equipment". (WEEE, 2018)
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Locally, Millhams Community Recycling Centre accept old domestic appliances. If you can't make it there, there are plenty of local, licensed businesses to contact for assistance; or arrange collection via BCP Council (https://www.bournemouth.gov.uk/BinsRecycling/BinCollections/WhiteGoodsTVsAndFurniture.aspx).
But if your white goods - washing machine, fridge, freezer - appear faulty at any point; consider whether they are at the end of their life; or can they be fixed up? Because there are also a lot of local engineers who may well be able to assist (you only need to do a search on SoBO to find one!).
EZ Appliances on Holdenhurst Road inspired this post; with extensive staff knowledge, they source, fix up and sell on refurbished washing machines and tumble driers.
Disappointed my machine was beyond help after about 6 years, they happily took it away and replaced it with my chosen refurbished machine that should last me just the same as a new one (excluding top of the range machines perhaps....but the budget just isn't there!). My old machine will be stripped down of any useful parts and disposed of responsibly.
White goods just haven't been built to last for a decade or more, as I seem to hope for. They are also priced in a way that often make it cheaper to buy brand new replacement if they break.
But whilst this may benefit financially, the environmental impact has been overlooked for too long; yet more unnecessary waste is being created to serve our culturally embedded need for cheap convenience.
This comes at a high cost, as the carbon emissions created from the manufacture of new machines contribute to global warming. As will the disposal of dumped items.
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The good news is new standards are being introduced by the EU to change this. From 2021, firms will have to make appliances longer-lasting, and they will have to supply spare parts for machines for up to 10 years.
The 'Right to repair' rules apply to lighting, washing machines, dishwashers and fridges. This article offers more details. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-49884827
So along with furniture, bags, clothes and other household items - can you make do and mend your white goods? Or make use of second hand or refurbished ones when a replacement is needed?
And if you need expert assistance - think local; to support small, independent repair businesses like EZ Appliances. Don't let the repair trade die out; let's help it grow; and together, reduce our waste.
N.B.
These maybe useful websites to note in your quest to repair:
https://www.espares.co.uk
https://www.ifixit.com/
...as recommended by Recycle Now.
Something for the weekend....Action #28: Avoid sending textiles to landfill
"Each year the British public throw away over a million tonnes of textiles, the vast majority of which could be used or recycled." (Textile Recycling UK)
So what to do:
REFUSE fast fashion, cheap fabrics and soft furnishings.
....Invest better quality items that will last longer; find them second hand from charity shops and/or online via Marketplace, Ebay, Gumtree etc. And don't forget Dorset Scrapstore!
...You maybe able to pick up freebies through groups such as Sobo Recycle and FREEUSE - Bournemouth Reuse Group.
REUSE and REPURPOSE what you have. Or offer unwanted items (clothes, fabric scraps, remnants, EVERYTHING) through places listed above.
Don't forget pre-schools, schools, day centres and other local community projects; textiles can be used in a wide range of ways for craft activities. Depending on what you have, given them a call and see if your stash can be of use:
...An old pair of curtains of yours could become someone else's shopping bag!
... A bundle of yarn collecting dust in another home could become your next crochet project!
...Tiny scraps or cut up tights could stuff handmade toys being prepared for plastic free presents!
...Remnants could be cut into strips and become a piece of woven wall art!
REPAIR items that need fixing up yourself or find a local tailor who can.
...Get more savvy with sewing through a local class - Haberdasherdo are starting up a variety of craft workshops; check out Reuse Not Refuse Sewing Social - Re-Loved Garms and the next Bournemouth Repair Cafe.
And finally - RECYCLE.
...Set aside a collection box at home for textile items that are beyond
repair....curtains...clothes...bedding...all things textile. Ensure they are clean - then bag up and take to your nearest textile recycling point. In Southbourne, head to Woodside Road carpark (pictured) or find other local facilities via these links:
https://www.bournemouth.gov.uk/binsrecycling/recyclingrecyclingcentres/NeighbourhoodRecyclingCentres.aspx
https://www.recyclenow.com/what-to-do-with/clothing-textiles-0
Increasingly, high street stores such as h&m also accept clothing. Check with your local branch first.
Be sure to get the whole household involved if you live with others.
...Notice what builds up in your collection box; and be creative - for example, are there potential cleaning cloths in there?! (No sewing needed - just cut with pinking shears!).
But remember, any recycling should always be the last step (before the bin); it takes considerable amounts of energy to complete the process and few items can be infinitely recycled like aluminium and glass.
So there you have plenty options. All of which avoid textiles going into landfill. Be sure to follow them up (if you're not already of course) and spread the word. The more of us that RETHINK and change our habits, the greater the impact will be on reducing waste.
Something for the weekend....Action #29 Styrofoam swaps and more. Tackling the takeaway container
Scientists say more should be done to tackle the growing environmental impact of takeaway food containers. A new study estimates there are 2025 million takeaway containers per year being used in the European Union (EU) alone. (University of Manchester)
During a recent camping trip, some take away food was presented in Styrofoam containers, carried in a plastic bag. For a campsite that demonstrates care for the environment, particularly being based in the beautiful surrounds of the New Forest, this really didn't seem right at all.
❓❓❓Why❓❓❓
Styrofoam containers have a surprisingly low carbon footprint when it comes to manufacturing them; but they cannot be considered a sustainable packaging as recycling facilities are very limited; and if contaminated with greasy food, it cant anyway). Therefore they mostly end up in landfill.
The fact that Styrofoam is non-biodegradable adds to the ecological impact. Landfills are filling up at a record rate and Styrofoam is one reason. Styrofoam has the potential to affect the entire ecological system of this planet.*
❓❓❓What can we do❓❓❓
✅ Plan ahead; make your own drinks, snacks and meals to take on the go, instead of buying them.
✅ Provide your own containers when you order.
✅ Ask the eatery you're buying from to re-consider the containers they use; for example, could they swap them with a home compostable material or do more to encourage customers to bring their own container?
Some options will feel more realistic than others; afterall, take away food is all about convenience.
But the culture of convenience is what has contributed to the levels of waste we suffer with now. Something needs to change. If we push for this together, change will happen. Start the take away container change today.
(And watch this space for an upcoming Sobo Wastebusters project 💚)
*https://sciencing.com/facts-about-landfill-styrofoam-5176735.html
Something for the weekend....Action #30 Home growing from food waste and more
Revisiting.....Something for the weekend.....Action #8: Grow your own naked cucumber....and more! (search in announcements to find it fast!).
Check out how the celery and nasturtiums flourished! The celery was sprouted from the base of some bought from the supermarket before the summer ...... none has been purchased since!
🌼🌼And not only have the nasturtiums (the seeds came FREE with a kids lunchbox at a famous Swedish store) provided some beautiful flowers to enjoy outside and in; but the leaves are excellent alternative to rocket. Yes, you can eat them. Yes, they are peppery and delicious; and yes, that is 1 less lot of plastic packaging caught up in the weekly family food shop. Winning.
Did anyone else have a go? Any joy? Share with us! But there is more.....
🥑🥑 Like avocados?
Keep those pips - grow some beautiful houseplants by sprouting them! This has taken some perseverance - but success is on the horizon! Pictured is the more advanced success of a Wastebusting friend 😊. For a bit of guidance check out this video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TDd_QU9Crmk&feature=share
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If you fancy having a go at growing your own fruit, pop along to King's Park Nursery and pick up some bargain blueberry plants, fig trees and strawberries. 🍓🔵
🌱🌱 Or plant out some veg seeds - broad beans, French beans and peas are good to go in October. REUSE any large plastic bottles as cloches to protect seedlings from frosts as the temperature drops.
A few simple tips....over to you. Happy growing, happy Wastebusting!
Something for the weekend....Action #31 Say goodbye to the glow sticks and things
🎆 Bonfire night is almost upon us; glow sticks and other novelty flashing objects are a familiar sight at this time of year - but can this be one tradition to break for the better ?? Can we start new ones with our children that are more forgiving to the future of their environment??
Glow sticks are essentially plastic tubes that hold two liquids, one in the plastic casing and one inside a glass vial that floats in the first liquid. When you bend a glow stick, you break the glass vial which allows the two liquids to mix.
The two liquids vary from one make of glow stick to the next; some are non-toxic, others are. So if the stick should split and the liquids are released, at best they may cause slight irritation to the skin; at worst, it could cause a lot of discomfort and pain in the eyes. If you have ever had the misfortune to see this happen to a child, you will probably tend to steer clear of them for safety reasons.
But what of the environmental impact? Glow sticks will be literally snapped up and enjoyed for a few hours at most. Then they will be discarded…in the bin at best…on the ground at worst. Either way, the consequence being a collective mass of single use plastic laying in the earth.
Glow sticks cannot be reused or recycled; and disposal leads to risks of contamination to water and soil. If you have ever seen hundreds of discarded old glow sticks littered across a festival site in the cold light of day, it’s not so pretty. So is a few hours of shiny fun really worth the consequence?
If you're being pestered by the kids, sit down and have a conversation about the impact of single use plastic on our environment - the book Kids Fight Plastic by Martin Dorey is an excellent way of introducing facts and inspiration for children. Visit BH6 Books and Home to buy a copy - or visit Southbourne Library to explore a whole section of books on the topic of greener thinking for kids and adults.
A few suggestions for glow stick replacements:
🌟 Fluorescent, hi vis or glow in the dark clothing - that can be worn repeatedly, shared and borrowed.
🌟 Fluorescent paint - decorate some sticks and twigs or existing clothes and accessories.
🌟 Fluorescent make up - swirl on a splash of colour to stand out from the crowd.
🌟 LED head torches and similar; that function with replaceable batteries (rechargeable ones if possible).
Of course, all of these still have reason to sit on your eco-conscience. The packaging being one of them.
Instead, is any of it really necessary? Let’s choose. Let’s refuse the plastic traditions one by one.
Something for the weekend....Action #32: Review your food waste
“Don’t waste electricity, don’t waste paper, don’t waste food. Live the way you want to live but just don’t waste...."
Sir David Attenborough
FOOD!!!! The waste of it is a major problem in the UK alone. According to WRAP - each year, the average household throws half of milk purchased; 170 potatoes; and collectively, 860 000 apples EVERY DAY!!!!
In fact, Recycle Now state 'if we all stopped wasting the food which could have been eaten, it would have the same CO2 impact as taking 1 in 4 cars off UK roads.'
We must all make time for a quick review. Start this weekend! Let's break it down:
Q: Do you plan your food shop according to what you will use, or do it on a whim?
Q: How much of cooked meals are leftover? What do you do with any?
Q: How much fresh produce are you throwing out because it has gone bad?
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CONSIDER:
🔵 MEAL PLANNING and SHOPPING LISTS - stick to them! ONLY BUY WHAT YOU NEED!
🔵 MAKE USE of food that would otherwise be wasted - pick up or donate items from / to Boscombe Community Fridge.
🔵 STORING FOOD RIGHT - it in a way that MAXIMISES the time it will stay fresh. The humble jar with water and lemon juice in the fridge goes far. As does a wax wrap. And don't forget, the freezer is your friend!
🔵 PORTION SIZES before you start preparing a meal, to minimise leftovers; or capitalise on the mighty leftover to create another meal! Make a bit extra - that could be tomorrow's lunch sorted. Or FREEZE it for a future dinner!
🔵 GET CREATIVE with cooked and uncooked leftovers!
Follow Love Food Hate Waste - Community for plenty of advice and ideas about all the points above.
And finally...When you go out for a meal - why not take your own CONTAINER for any unexpected leftovers? (Particularly handy for when pudding proves too much.....)
❌For the food scraps you really can't use, DO NOT go near your general waste bin - food waste in landfill creates masses of methane, which is 100 TIMES more potent than carbon dioxide and incredibly damaging. Instead, turn to:
✅Your FREE brown FOOD WASTE bin. The contents will be used for commercial composting; to generate liquid feed; and as an energy source to power local recycling facilities.
✅A COMPOST bin. Create your own nutritious compost for future growing. BCP provide subsidised compost bins to local residents. https://www.bournemouth.gov.uk/binsrecycling/GoGreen/HomeComposting/GetStartedWithHomeComposting.aspx
✅A KOBASHI bin. Never heard of one? Check out the blog post www.sobowastebusters.com/blog/bokashi-what.
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Hopefully after as little as a week of reflection, your level of food waste will reduce - and collectively, we can cut down on the £12 billion worth of food that BCP states the UK wastes each year!
Something for the weekend....Action #33: Time for tea - like they used to
Teabags. A modern phenomenon, for ease and convenience. But sadly contributing to our plastic crisis.
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We love a cuppa and in this chilly weather, the intake is increasing!
Black, green, fruit, herbal - the choice is immense. But what the majority have in common, is the single use tea bag and packaging. Often, complete with plastic involved with both - from the glue to outer wrapping. All except Pukka tea, according to this recent article.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-50260687
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The alternative? The humble tea leaf!
And in Southbourne, you can access a whole range of tea leaves from That Brilliant Store or Food on the Loose; and just down the road in Tuckton, the really rather splendid The Exotic Teapot.
Choose what you would like; how much you would like; and pack it up in your own container.
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Consider using a reusable teabag that you simply fill and empty yourself; a tea strainer; or infuser, of which there are many designs and types. The used leaves can go in your home composter without the fear of microplastics entering the earth.
Tea for two or more? Pick up a teapot in one of the many local charity shops. And enjoy the pleasure of making a pot of plastic free tea!!!
Something for the weekend....Action #34: Keep the cold out and (green) energy in
A few weeks ago BCP announced gritters would be out across main highways due to predicted freezing temperatures. Winter is here.
If you haven't already, now would be a good time to do a quick spot check on the insulation of your home. We're not talking radical building works and window replacements; but simple, affordable steps to save wasted energy fighting cold drafts sneaking in through windows and doors.
Then check out your thermostat and programme the timer on your boiler. If you feel the need to hit the overide button, check what you're wearing - can you try adding a layer first?! According to MoneySupermarket, turning down your thermostat just one degree and putting on a jumper can cut your bills by £80 per year.
For further impartial guidance, have a quick read of this article by Energy Saving Trust:
https://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/home-insulation/draught-proofing
Making simple adaptations, ultimately, will use less energy to heat your home, which is an important plus for our environment.
And on the subject of energy, is your supplier investing in and using renewable energy resources, such as wind power or biofuel?
Or is it primarily drawn from fossil fuels, like coal and oil? Again, head on over to the Energy Saving Trust website for more information:
https://www.energysavingtrust.org.uk/home-energy-efficiency/switching-utilities/buying-green-electricity
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There are a growing number of green energy companies; so tariffs are becoming more competitive and affordable.
It is true to say many will draw from a mix of fossil fuels and renewable energy; some simply pay to offset their carbon emissions. Either way, the way green energy is produced has become much more efficient and therefore more power is being generated.
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The more we invest in such companies, by providing our custom, the greater the drive to achieving fully sustainable energy for the future. Because fossil fuels will not be there to serve us.
Something for the weekend.....Action 35: Keep going. Keep wastebusting
3 5 y e a r s ago, scientific evidence was being published to demonstrate the need for society to take action on climate change. Sadly, action has been slow and unsubstantial relative to the issues our planet faces today. But we must keep pushing for change.
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F r a c t a l s. A constant, beautiful, naturally occurring pattern found in nature. More than aesthetically pleasing to the eye, the connection between fractals and leaves is currently being used to determine how much carbon is contained in trees. Further, like fractals, constant, repeated patterns of positive human behaviour are crucial in the world's bid to preserve the future of our planet.
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The future is uncertain and it should concern every single one of us.
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You may notice repeated, ongoing themes in Sobo Wastebusters social media posts and projects. Centred around RETHINK, REFUSE, REUSE, RECYCLE - these are the themes we must ALL weave into every aspect of our lives in the strive to reduce our waste and live more sustainably. Our rubbish is killing wildlife - 1 in 7 species are under threat of extinction in the UK alone - and it will no doubt lead to our own human demise.
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This is the final post in the series of weekly actions, to focus on our '3 Steps to Zero Waste' project. We hope these posts have inspired you to take the same or similar actions (if you haven't already); and enabled you to start conversations with others who may not be so eco-conscious.
You can still access all 35 action posts by searching in the Sobo Wastebusters Group posts and notifications. We are also working to create an archive on our website.
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The need is now clear and apparent; from floods to droughts and fires. Climate change is a global issue but we must start locally. We must work together to save our planet. We cannot afford to leave it another 35 years.
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Keep going; keep wastebusting. Let not the death of the albatross be in vain.
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https://climate.nasa.gov/evidence
Photo: Chris Jordan, from his film ALBATROSS