In this two-minute read, we
show you how to make your Kent home a healthier place for the
planet.

Yesterday was World Earth Day.
People across the globe were encouraged to be more mindful about the impact we
all have on the planet.

But doing our bit for Mother Earth
is a process and not an event as this article explains.

In our own homes in Kent,
we can continue to do things to help the Earth. Here are some ideas.

Go local

The supermarkets are undeniably
convenient. If you can though, frequent farmers’ markets. You’ll be reducing
air miles, which is good for the environment and your health. It also means
you’re not supporting the unethical, polluting mega greenhouses in places like
the south of Spain. You can more often reuse egg boxes or berry baskets when
revisiting your favourite stalls. There are also likely to be fewer plastic
stickers on the produce.

Buy in bulk

Buying in bulk reduces the amount
of plastic waste. You’re not buying lots of little ones just to throw them
away. You can also often reuse the same containers too. This is great for
cleaning products for the house or for humans. It’s also a great way to buy
food. You’ll be doing good for the planet and your wallet too. Loo roll bought in
bulk from hotel suppliers will reduce the amount of plastic wrapping around the
packets. (You can also buy paper-wrapped toilet paper.)

In the garden

Prioritise native plants. Replace
your lawn with short native grasses or, even better, plant vegetables. Use
kitchen waste to create compost. Invest in a worm composter, or an electric one
if you’re in a flat. You can even compost dog poop! (This is a special process,
don’t just throw it in with your kitchen waste.) Buy seeds in bulk. Take any
plastic containers back to the garden centre. Capture rainwater whenever you
can to reuse later.

With the children

Refuse free pens and instead get
refillable ones. Buy paperclips in bulk or get a staple-free stapler. Join your
local library to borrow books and magazines. Teach children to draw or cut near
the sides of pieces of paper. This offers more chances for reuse and instils
the thoughtful use of resources from a young age. Always recycle used paper,
after both sides have been filled. Make a bug hotel for the garden to encourage
pollinators and explore the interconnectedness of the planet.

What eco-friendly ideas do you use
at home? We’d love to hear your suggestions.