Eco Living

In my mind following a vegan lifestyle extends further than my diet – it is conscience decision to be mindful of the foot prints I leave on this world and to do as much as I can to reduce them. And that means leading, where possible, an eco – friendly lifestyle. There are many ways to do this including eating a vegan lifestyle, using public transport / my bike where possible and shopping responsibly.

In recent years, terms like "going green" and "eco-friendly" have become buzz words we are all very familiar with. The term "eco-friendly" has been used for so many different products, its meaning is in danger of being lost. By understanding the true meaning of eco-friendly, you can implement the practices that will lead to healthier living for the planet and its inhabitants, big and small. Eco-friendly literally means earth-friendly or not harmful to the environment. This term most commonly refers to products that contribute to green living or practices that help conserve resources like water and energy. Eco-friendly products also prevent contributions to air, water and land pollution. You can engage in eco-friendly habits or practices by being more conscious of how you use resources.

Making a truly eco-friendly product keeps both environmental and human safety in mind. At a minimum, the product is non-toxic. Other eco-friendly attributes include the use of sustainably grown or raised ingredients, produced in ways that do not deplete the ecosystem. Organic ingredients or materials are grown without toxic pesticides or herbicides. Products with "made from recycled materials" contain glass, wood, metal or plastic reclaimed from waste products and made into something new. Biodegradable products break down through natural decomposition, which is less taxing on landfills and the ecosystem as a whole.

You can develop eco-friendly habits to help you use less and make the most of what you have. Turn off lights in empty rooms and use a programmable thermostat so you're only heating or cooling your home when it's occupied, recycling, up cycling and reusing where we can. Buying small storage containers for leftover food to be frozen for another meal, creating recipes that use up odd and sods (for ideas check outBuddha Bowls , my previous blog for inspiration ) and ensuring all your house cleaning products are eco friendly (Eco Cover are currently 342 in Waitrose). It is also important to adopt a make do and mend attitude. Learning to sew, knit and craft can save you a small fortune as well as reduce your carbon footprint.  In an era where Cath Kidston, Annie Sloan and Kristy Allsop encourage us to get creative - you can support  local businesses who  are running craft classes every night. With so much choice there is really no excuse to not have a go – even if you are the least creative person in the world (like me!) the coffee, cake and friendship is definitely spot on!