Sustainability season - tips for a greener Autumn

Autumn is underway and a favourite season of many – with Halloween, bonfire night, Diwali and the lead up to Christmas a few of the calendar highlights.

But ‘cosy season’ also brings cooler weather and darker days – both of which can sometimes make sustainable practices fall by the wayside, amidst the temptation to crank up the heating.  

So here are our tips for making sure Autumn is a sustainable season – in the workplace, and at home! 

Energy 

• Starting off with an easy one – turn off lights when leaving a room! Wherever possible, install motion sensors to automatically turn off lights that aren’t being used.
• Don’t leave electrical items on stand-by – turn them off. While saving only a small amount of power, every little helps.
• By using radiator thermostats and reducing the temperature on your boiler, you can reduce your energy usage and your bill. 
• If you haven’t already, look at renewable energy sources such as solar or wind. A recent study showed that solar power has been the largest source of new electricity globally for the third consecutive year!
• Consider buying power on a renewable energy tariff; some or all of the units of electricity are matched by units generated by a renewable source. 

Waste

• Do you really need to print that document? Consider using digital versions where possible and only print when necessary.
• Could you bring your lunch to work in a re-usable container? Making your lunch instead of buying something plastic wrapped is not only better for the planet but your pocket too! Try and plan meals where possible to reduce waste. 
• Re-use, re-purpose, recycle – think before you throw. Can you use it again? Can you use it for another purpose? If not, can it be recycled? 
• Although buying second hand isn’t everyone’s cup of tea, it gives products a longer life before landfill. This goes for the home and office. If having a re-vamp, why not try up-cycled office furniture?  
• Shop smart – opt for glass or cardboard packaging over plastic where possible as they’re easier to recycle. How many of your office supplies are recyclable? 

Environment

• Think about walking or cycling for shorter journeys. This helps the environment as well as your wellbeing! Don’t forget your wellies for the puddles! 
• Consider draught excluders to avoid having to turn up the heating. 
• Try opting for manufacturers and suppliers who use sustainably sourced materials. This could be the copy paper you purchase being FSC approved, to health and wellbeing products containing sustainably sourced palm oil. If you could help save the orangutans and their homes, why wouldn’t you?!   
• Birds find it harder to find food at this time of year. Why not leave out some fat balls or seeds to make things a little easier through them during the Winter? 

When it comes to sustainability, a few small changes can have a big impact. 

For more advice on how your business can become more sustainable all year round, get in touch with our solar experts today.