If you want to get involved in the National Trust’s Great Green Leap Day, but haven’t got a day off work, here are some easy things you can do in your spare time to reduce your impact on the environment:
Measure your footprint
Establish what your carbon footprint is so you can then start to find ways of reducing it.
© NTPL / Ian Shaw
Switch to energy saving light bulbs
Energy saving light bulbs use up to 80 per cent less electricity than a standard bulb, but produce the same amount of light.
Turn your thermostat down
Turn the room thermostat down by one degree centigrade. This can save up to £30 a year.
Get on your bike
Get your bike out from where it’s hidden and give it the love and attention it deserves. Find out about cycle routes in your area. Your local Tourist Information Centre may have maps.
Switch to green energy
National Trust Green Energy is 100 per cent renewable electricity that is produced from existing cleaner, greener sources such as offshore wind and hydro-electric power.
When you switch to National Trust Green Energy, npower will give the National Trust £15 to invest in low and zero carbon initiatives. npower will also contribute £15 for each year you remain a customer.
© NTPL / Stephen Robson
Or if you have a bit more time...
Draft proof your house
Eliminate draughts and wasted heat by installing a cheap, easy-to-fix brush or PVC seal on your exterior doors. Letterboxes and keyholes should be covered too.
Draughts also get in through gaps in floorboards and skirting boards, which also allow heat to escape in winter. Stop this waste by filling these gaps with newspaper, beading or sealant.
Cavity wall and loft insulation
Npower is offering free cavity wall and free loft insulation to people that meet certain criteria.
- For more information call 0845 602 4696 and quote 'National Trust'
Compost bins
Your local council might have a deal on compost bins. Access the Recycle now - compost at home website and enter your postcode to find out or call the WRAP helpline on 0808 100 2040.
Install a water meter
Switching to a water meter could also save money, as you will only then be charged for the water you actually use.
Most households are entitled to have a meter fitted and your water company will not charge you for this. For information about getting a water meter fitted contact your water company.
Car share
Have a no car day or walk the kids to school instead. Car sharing goes beyond the journey to and from work. Can you set up an arrangement with your neighbours, family or friends to car share to the shops/ place of worship? Minimise the impact your car has on the environment by ensuring the tyres are of the correct pressure and by clearing out your boot.
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