1.Reduce household waste
Landfills contribute to soil and water contamination, greenhouse gas emissions and the destruction of wildlife habitats which all have a very negative impact on our environment. Reducing the amount of waste your household produces, and recycling when you can mean less waste going into a landfill, which helps to reduce your environmental impact.
2. Recycle correctly
Did you know that sometimes the smallest thing can end up in your recycling bin that actually can’t be recycled? For example, food packaging that hasn’t been washed and this can result in an entire bin of recycling going to landfill - because it’s been contaminated.
Normally, your waste management company will give you guidance on what can and can’t go into your recycling bin but you can find more information from citizens information here.
Recycling Larger items – Electronics, Furniture, Clothing
As well as kerbside or home collections, there are recycling centres all over Ireland where you can recycle larger items, like electrical goods, furniture, clothing, textiles and other household and garden waste.
3. Compost your leftover food
A compost bin turns food waste into nutrient-rich compost, which can be used to improve your soil and help plants in your garden to thrive.
But remember not all food waste is suitable for your home compost bin! You’ll find helpful information about composting from the Composting Association of Ireland here.
And if you have space, why not grow your own fruit and vegetables. If you’re eating home-grown produce, it can result in a lot less food waste and could even save you money.
4. Embrace reusables
You can help to reduce your household waste by trying to avoid single-use plastic where possible and embracing reusables.
There are so many items that can be reused and contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. For example, you can keep yourself hydrated by refilling and carrying a reusable water bottle. If you’re a coffee-lover, try a re-usable coffee cup for your daily pick-me-up. Pack lunch for you and your kids in reusable lunch boxes, and use storage containers for keeping leftovers in the fridge.
5. Conserve your energy use
Simple steps like turning the lights off when you leave a room or only heating the rooms that you’re using, rather than the whole house can really contribute to energy savings. You might also consider choosing LED lightbulbs, insulating your attic or double-glazing your windows if you haven’t done so already. You can find plenty more tips on our blog, eco-friendly home renovation ideas here.
6. Invest in appliances with a high energy efficiency rating
If your washing machine has become less efficient at washing clothes, or your oven isn’t quite what it used to be - there are more modern models to consider that reduce energy consumption and overall impact on the environment.
Newer washing machines, dishwashers and fridges have eco-friendly settings and are designed to be more efficient, with less impact on climate. Air Fryers and Induction Hobs also having energy saving features and are worth considering as well.
7. Keep an eye on your water use
An effective way to be more sustainable at home is to monitor your water consumption and reduce where possible.
Simple things like shorter showers, turning off the tap when brushing your teeth and only filling the kettle with the amount of water you need to boil can all make a difference. If you have any leaky taps, it’s a good idea to get them fixed to cut down on water being wasted.
You could also consider water-efficient washing machines and dishwashers when replacing your old appliances. Plus, a rainwater tank or barrel in your back garden is a great way to collect rainwater for use on your plants Instead of using your garden hose.
8. Shop sustainably
When shopping there are all kinds of ways to be more sustainable. Whether you’re choosing eco-friendly products from companies with a strong commitment to sustainability, or simply opting for loose fruit and vegetables, instead of pre-packaged ones.
Buying clothes and furniture items second hand to save them from going to landfill, and choosing products with recycled or sustainable packaging, all help to minimise your carbon footprint.
In addition, make sure you always bring reusable shopping bags, boxes or crates for your weekly shop.
Other helpful tips on living more sustainably:
Cut down on using the car
We know this isn’t possible for everybody but cars and transportation in general are one of the leading producers of carbon emissions the world over. So, if you live close to public transport or can cycle or walk easily to your destination, that can all help with living more sustainably.
Shop locally whenever you can
Shopping locally supports your neighbourhood businesses and boosts your local economy. Buying food, clothes and other items from local producers, especially small, independent businesses can lead to more sustainable manufacturing and business practices, by reducing transportation emissions and lowering your environmental impact.
Supporting our customers
At AXA, we’re on a journey towards a greener and more sustainable future. This means supporting our customers on their own sustainability journeys. If you’re looking for advice on how to make your home more energy-efficient, want to find out about greener, safer driving, or even how we support small businesses, you can find out here.