From Hugh Tyrrell,
Createvo specialist green marketing and communications/ hugh@createvo.co.za
Water -
shower instead of bath and fit a low-flow shower head. This reduces the amount of water needed to wash and lowers energy use because less water needs to be heated. Run a hose from the bath or shower outlet onto the shrubs and flowerbeds, or install a greywater system.
Energy -
if you haven't put in a solar water geyser yet, install a geyser timer to automatically switch your geyser on and off. This minimises electricity use while ensuring hot water when you need it. And until you get one, do it manually. Switch geyser off just before you go to work and then on again as soon as you get home. No loss of hot water, a significant saving in energy (and cash).
Food/diet -
buy local, and eat fresh and seasonal. Food choices are a major determinant of our eco-footprint. To reduce 'food miles' (the distance food has to travel to get to us) and their carbon emissions, buy food grown and processed as close as possible to home. Eat fresh food rather than frozen or cooked - both of which use energy -and enjoy what's in season. All these are healthier choices too.
Recycle waste -
use old beer or milk crates to hold your glass, plastic and paper. Stack on top of each other to reduce space, and make carrying to the recycling depot easier. If you have a garden, compost all food trimmings, peelings and left-overs and use the compost so made for a veg garden. If you live in a flat or complex, learn how to manage worm-farm bins.
Cleaning -
choose phosphate-free washing powder as this minimizes harm to water courses. And lower the temperature setting on your washing machine - 40 C is sufficient. Use floor and furniture cleaners with fewest artificial chemical components, so reducing potentially toxic chemicals in your home.
Clothes & textiles -
buy classic styles and keep them for longer. Repair rather than throw out. Second-hand clothing sales amongst friends and acquaintances is a great way to stay on touch and pick up bargains.