Eco Tips

Small changes in daily life add up to enormous collective impact. Here are some of the eco practices we recommend — drawn from our own experience running inSpiral and from the wider conscious living community.

Food & Diet

• Eat less meat and dairy. Animal agriculture accounts for up to 18% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Even reducing consumption by 50% makes a significant difference.
• Buy organic. Organic farming builds soil health, supports biodiversity and eliminates synthetic pesticide use. It's also better for you.
• Buy local and seasonal. Food miles matter. Shopping at farmers' markets and choosing seasonal produce dramatically reduces your food's carbon footprint.
• Reduce food waste. A third of all food produced globally is wasted. Plan your meals, use leftovers creatively, and compost what you can't eat.
• Grow something. Even a window box of herbs reconnects you to where food comes from and reduces packaging waste.

Home

• Switch to a renewable energy tariff. Takes 10 minutes and makes an immediate difference.
• Eliminate single-use plastic. Carry a water bottle, coffee cup and reusable bags. Refuse plastic straws and packaging wherever possible.
• Switch to natural cleaning products. Conventional cleaning products are a significant source of chemical pollution.
• Compost. Kitchen composting keeps organic waste out of landfill and produces rich soil for growing.

Travel

• Walk or cycle for short journeys. Good for you and good for the air.
• Use public transport. One less car on the road per household makes a significant difference across a lifetime.
• Fly less. Aviation is one of the most carbon-intensive activities available to individuals. Consider taking the train for European destinations.