ECO-nomical living

Can we really make a difference while the ground beneath us appears to constantly shift. There is no one key point to focus our attention('If we do x then the problem will be solved') therefore simply doing our bit no-matter how small the scale can send a message to others to also engage through simple actions such as recycling waste and saving energy.

Whether you're cleaning, decorating or gardening, ecology begins in the home. There are so many things that can be done or avoided that can have a vast impact. Being aware of chemicals in cleaning products, checking labels and avoiding solvent-based paints and using recycled materials can all help.

Water

As one of the most important resources on the plannet we do not have an abundance of it. We take water for granted while other don't have enough to drink. Our bodies are made up of 60% water and it is essential to the maintanence of our body so it would be good to remember those who have insufficient for their basic needs. We wash away a staggering 1,050 litres of water a week! We can make a difference by making a few small changes.

• Use short bursts of water when you brush your teeth. By leaving the tap on you are wasting 4.5 litres of water.
• When using the washing machine only wash with a full load in. Single cycles use up to 100 ltres of water.
• Use rain water if possible for drinking, flushing the loo and watering garden plants. Flushing accounts for 1 third of water use! Invest in a water canister.
• Save water in the garden by using a watering can instead of a sprinkler which when left on for 8n hours overnight can use up to 2,400 litres.
• Take showers if you have one rather than a bath.The average bath uses 80 litres of water compared with 30-45 litres.

Our garden are eco-systems in themselves which contain their own micro eco-systems. Alittle consideration can go a long way when planning or working in our garden.

• Learn about the pests in your garden and don't automatically use chemical warfare. Find alternative ways of dealing with them.
• Use electric mowers if possible. Fuel powered lawnmoors can produce as much pllution as 40 cars!

A third of domestic waste could go straight to your garden on a compost heap returning the nutrients back to the soil. Coffee grounds are perfect compost material Your plants will love this!

Buying local produce when possible is one of the most important things we can do to improve the environment.

• Support local farmers by purchasing their own produce
• Saying no to poposals for new supermarkets will help small local village shops to remain in business.
• Try to eat seasnal vegetables as well as tasting so much better they
• save on food miles and pollution.
• Look out for fair trade food as it ensures producers in developing countries get fair prices for their food.
• Buy organic foods. It is often a myth that it are more expensive and besides the more people that buy this, then the more farmers will produce and prices will come down.

The UK has the worst traffic congestion in Europe. Cycling is the most environmentally sound means of transport after walking and it can save time, money but most importantly the environment so why don't we reclaim the streets and promote pedal pwer!

And finally, could you ever imagine doing away with money altogether and instead using a resource based system? Afterall, there are enough resources on this planet to enable every single individual to experience justice, fairness and freedom.