There’s no denying that it will take a global effort to affect a global change on our environmental impact. But there are small steps that we as individuals can take, that when compounded globally will have a big impact.

We’ve compiled a list of easy actionable changes you can make to help improve the environment.

Reduce your waste

Making simple changes to how you get rid of your waste can have a massive impact. Composting your food waste is the easiest way to start reducing your waste and plays a crucial part in the nitrogen cycle by returning enriched soil to the ground- perfect for when you start your own vegetable patch.

Recycle as much as you can but remember to look at the recycling symbols on the packaging to ensure your rubbish is going in the right bin.

Carry your cups

There’s been a recent surge in the use of reusable bottles and coffee cups, and leading high street stores like John Lewis and Morrisons are getting on board by providing free drinking water for all. Although we are making strides by carrying reusable bottles, there are still 7.7 billion plastic bottles used in the UK each year, with the average person using 150 plastic water bottles every year. The easiest way to combat this is to use a reusable bottle and coffee cups, and with only 1 in 400 coffee cups being recycled it’s time to make a new morning habit.

Use public transport

Public transport not only eases congestion but has a significant impact on the environment. Switching your regular commute to include public transport is one way you could have a positive change on the environment. Using public transport isn’t just for city living, there are plenty of regular buses and trains that travel between smaller towns. For example, if you’re travelling to Brighton for work, you can catch a train from a smaller town like Lewes. 

Go meat and dairy free on Mondays

Statistics show that more than 80% of farmland is used for livestock but produces just 18% of food calories and contributes to water pollution, deforestation and climate change. If you’re not ready to give up your meat or cheese completely, by abstaining for just one day you can slow-down climate change, and potentially revolutionise the farming industry.

Bring your own bags

Since the introduction of the 5p tax on plastic carrier bags, the 7 main retailers have issued around 83% fewer bags, the equivalent to each person using only 25 bags per year, as opposed to 140 bags the year before the tax. This simple change has already had an incredible impact and illustrates how one small change made by everyone can have such a profound impact.

These simple changes don’t need you to overhaul your life but the earlier you start and the more people that join you, the easier it will become to save our little blue planet.