365 Ways to Help the Planet - Part 4
Are you looking for ways to connect with nature, support wildlife, and engage in sustainable practices? In this blog post, we have compiled a diverse range of activities and initiatives that can help you make a positive impact on the environment. From exploring wild walks and volunteering for conservation projects to creating sustainable workplaces and embracing reusable alternatives, there's something for everyone to contribute to a greener future. Join us as we explore 10 different ideas that promote environmental consciousness and encourage individuals to take action. Let's dive in and discover how small steps can make a big difference in creating a more sustainable and vibrant world.
If you haven’t already, be sure to have a look at Part 1, Part 2 and Part 3 of our Ways to Help The Planet series.
If you’re a business and looking for ways to make your business more sustainable have a look at Creating a Culture of Sustainability: Best Sustainable Business Practices and Training.
92. Pick up or download a copy of Walthamstow Marshes & Springfield Park Wild Walk from OutdoorPeople
These walks have been developed by Outdoor People with support from the families and volunteers that join our walks, with great thanks for funding from Hackney Giving, the National Lottery Community Fund, Arc'teryx Outer Peace and Its Great Out There.
93. Fill your home with plants
House plants offer a wide range of benefits, both for the environment and for the people who keep them. Here are some of the main benefits of having house plants.
Improve indoor air quality: Plants are natural air purifiers and can help to remove pollutants, such as benzene, formaldehyde, and carbon monoxide from the air.
Boost your mood and reduce stress: Studies have shown that spending time around plants can help to reduce stress levels, increase feelings of calmness, and improve mood.
Enhance cognitive function: Plants can improve concentration, memory, and productivity, which makes them a great addition to home offices and study spaces.
Reduce noise levels: Plants can absorb and reduce noise levels, making them a great addition to busy households or apartments.
Increase humidity: Plants release moisture into the air, which can help to increase humidity levels in your home. This can be particularly beneficial during the winter months when the air tends to be drier.
Improve overall health: Studies have shown that people who spend time around plants have lower blood pressure and a reduced risk of respiratory illnesses.
Provide aesthetic appeal: House plants come in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, and colours, and can be used to add visual interest and beauty to any room in your home.
94 How to grow wildlife friendly vegetable garden
Looking to create a vegetable garden that attracts wildlife? With these helpful tips, you can grow a beautiful and wildlife-friendly garden while still growing your favourite vegetables. From choosing the right spot to providing food and water, our guide covers everything you need to know to create a thriving garden that is both beneficial to you and the local wildlife. Follow these tips and enjoy the satisfaction of growing fresh produce while supporting the local ecosystem.
Here are some useful suggestions for creating a garden that is attractive to wildlife while growing vegetables:
Find the perfect location: When selecting a spot for your garden, consider the requirements of both your vegetables and the wildlife you want to entice. The location should receive at least six hours of sunlight each day and have good drainage. It's also beneficial to choose an area near a water source such as a pond or stream.
Prepare the soil: Before planting, it's crucial to get the soil ready. Adding compost or other organic matter will help with drainage and fertility. Checking the pH levels is also important to ensure it's appropriate for the vegetables you plan to grow.
Choose the right plants: When selecting plants for your garden, keep in mind the needs of both wildlife and vegetables. Choosing native plants is recommended as they are more likely to attract native wildlife. Select plants that are compatible with each other since some may compete for resources.
Plant a variety of plants: A diverse garden attracts more wildlife than one with just a few plant types. To attract a variety of animals, plant various vegetables, herbs, flowers, and trees.
Provide food and water: To support wildlife, it's essential to provide food and water. Plant flowers that attract pollinators, such as bees and butterflies. Setting up bird feeders and birdbaths can also entice birds.
Create a habitat: In addition to food and water, wildlife requires a place to live. Create a mix of open spaces, shrubs, and trees to provide a habitat for wildlife. You may also construct birdhouses, bat boxes, and other shelters.
Avoid using pesticides and herbicides: Pesticides and herbicides can harm wildlife. Instead, use organic methods to control pests and weeds.
Be patient: It takes time to establish a wildlife-friendly garden. Keep in mind that results won't be seen overnight. However, with time and effort, you can create a garden that is both stunning and beneficial to wildlife.
95. Ask your company to join the Race to Zero
The Race to Zero is the UN's global campaign to rally businesses, cities and regions for a zero carbon world. Signing up means making a real commitment to Net Zero including a plan for how to do it. The more companies who join the Race to Zero the more momentum will build for companies to do things differently. Companies have large footprints and so need to be on a path to Net Zero just like individuals.. Companies who don't sign up may look like sustainability is not important to their mission.
Race to Zero is a global campaign led by the UN. Thousands of companies, cities and universities have already signed up.
Suggestion from Giki Zero, your step by step guide to a lighter footprint on the planet. It will help you discover your footprint, find steps to reduce it and celebrate your successes.
96. Volunteer at open orchard project
At the Open Orchard Project meet your local community, learn some green skills and grow your own food. The group meet every Sunday on Rothschild Street in West Norwood. Whether you want to learn how to grow your own food, meet new people share your own skills or make a difference in your local community, everyone is welcome from all walks of life.
97. Give a Crap
Toilets have saved more lives than any other modern invention.. Who Gives a Crap donate 50% of their profits to ensure everyone has access to clean water and a toilet within our lifetime.
Who Gives a Crap is a socially conscious company that is making a significant impact on the environment through their innovative approach to toilet paper and tissue products. They have recognised the environmental challenges posed by conventional toilet paper production and have taken meaningful steps to address them. By choosing to support Who Gives a Crap, you are not only investing in high-quality and sustainable products but also contributing to a cleaner and healthier planet.
Environmental Benefits:
Reduced deforestation: Who Gives a Crap is committed to protecting forests by using 100% recycled paper or bamboo as their primary source of material. By opting for their products, you are directly reducing the demand for virgin wood pulp, which helps to prevent deforestation and preserve valuable ecosystems.
Water conservation: Conventional toilet paper production requires a significant amount of water for both the manufacturing process and the cultivation of trees. However, Who Gives a Crap has implemented water-efficient practices and uses alternative materials like bamboo that require less water to grow. By supporting them, you are contributing to water conservation efforts.
Lower carbon footprint: The production and transportation of traditional toilet paper contribute to greenhouse gas emissions. Who Gives a Crap has taken steps to minimize their carbon footprint by using recycled materials and partnering with carbon-neutral shipping providers. By choosing their products, you are actively supporting the reduction of carbon emissions.
Waste reduction: Every year, billions of rolls of toilet paper are flushed down toilets, ending up in landfills or causing sewage system issues. Who Gives a Crap promotes sustainable consumption by offering products with minimal packaging, as well as being wrapped in eco-friendly and compostable materials. By using their products, you are contributing to waste reduction efforts and supporting a circular economy.
Social impact: In addition to their environmental initiatives, Who Gives a Crap is committed to creating positive social change. They donate 50% of their profits to fund sanitation projects worldwide, ensuring access to clean water and proper sanitation facilities for those in need. By choosing their products, you are directly contributing to improving the lives of others and creating a more equitable world.
98. Bug hunting and identification
This activity teaches children about the different types of insects found in the natural environment, including their habitat, diet, and characteristics. It involves searching for and observing insects and other small creatures.
Children use tools such as magnifying glasses, bug jars, and nets.
Bug hunting promotes curiosity, exploration, and discovery.
Children can learn about different types of insects and their behaviours.
Bug hunting can teach children about conservation and the role of insects in the ecosystem.
It helps children develop a greater understanding and appreciation of the natural world.
99. Abney Park Cemetery Wild Walk from Outdoor People
Pick up or download a copy of Abney Park Cemetery Wild Walk from Outdoor People
100. Here is a simple guide on how to make naturally dyed eggs
Ingredients:
White or brown eggs
Natural dyes (such as red cabbage, onion skins, beetroot, turmeric, or tea)
White vinegar
A saucepan
A chopping board
A knife
A spoon
A ladle
A colander
A bowl of water
Paper towels
Instructions:
Hard boil your eggs.
While your eggs are boiling, prepare your dyes. For each colour you want to dye an egg, you will need:
1 cup of water
1/2 cup of chopped vegetables or fruit (for example, 1/2 cup of red cabbage, 1/2 cup of onion skins, or 1/2 cup of beetroot)
2 tablespoons of white vinegar
In a saucepan, combine the water, vegetables or fruit, and vinegar. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-30 minutes, or until the liquid has turned a deep colour.
Remove the dye from the heat and let it cool slightly.
Once the dye has cooled, carefully place your hard-boiled eggs in the dye. Use a spoon or ladle to submerge the eggs completely.
Let the eggs soak in the dye for 10-15 minutes, or until they reach the desired colour.
Remove the eggs from the dye and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
Once the eggs are cool, you can decorate them as desired.
Tips:
For brighter colors, use white eggs.
For darker colors, use brown eggs.
You can use any combination of natural dyes to create your own unique colour schemes.
If you want to create patterns on your eggs, you can use rubber bands or toothpicks to create designs on the eggs before you dye them.
To prevent the dye from bleeding onto your hands, wear gloves when handling the eggs.
Once you are finished decorating your eggs, store them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh.
101. Build a hedgehog home
Building a hedgehog home is a great way to provide a safe and warm place for these adorable little creatures to shelter in your garden. Here are the steps to build a hedgehog home:
Find a suitable location: The hedgehog home should be situated in a quiet and secluded area of your garden, away from any potential hazards such as ponds, swimming pools, or busy roads.
Gather materials: You will need a wooden box, preferably made from untreated wood, with a lid that can be securely fastened. You will also need some insulation materials, such as straw or dry leaves.
Construct the box: The box should be approximately 50cm long, 40cm wide, and 30cm high. Drill a few small holes in the base to allow for drainage.
Add insulation: Fill the box with straw or dry leaves to provide insulation and a cozy bed for the hedgehog. Make sure to leave a small entrance hole for the hedgehog to get in and out.
Place the box: Place the hedgehog home in the chosen location, ideally under a hedge or shrubbery, and cover it with a layer of twigs and leaves to help camouflage it.
Encourage hedgehogs to visit: Leave some food out near the entrance to the hedgehog home, such as cat food or meat-based dog food. You can also leave a dish of water nearby.
Monitor and maintain: Check the hedgehog home regularly to ensure it is in good condition and has not been disturbed. If necessary, add more insulation materials to keep it warm and dry.
By following these steps, you can create a cozy and safe haven for hedgehogs to shelter in your garden.
102. Create a sustainable workplace culture.
Educate employees about sustainability, encourage them to practice sustainable behaviours at work and at home, and make sustainability a core value of the company.
103. Volunteer at Cody Dock
The environmental team at Cody Dock survey and monitor the local environment and ecology, helping to study the importance of the lower Lea valley. This helps make informed decisions about the site development and give the team tools to make informed interventions, create new habitats and conserve existing ones!
Join an intertidal survey, monitor water quality, join a butterfly or bat walk, record bird species or just come and plant a couple of hundred trees!
104. Give reusable nappies a go
Try the ones by Totbots, the first reusable nappy company in the world to make waterproof fabric from recycled plastic!
Are you aware that disposable nappies can take as long as 500 years to decompose, and so-called "bio-degradable" nappies do not actually break down in landfill? This is not just stinky, it's harmful to the environment.
Fortunately, there's a better way - using cloth nappies. By switching to cloth nappies, you can cut your weekly rubbish in half, reduce your carbon footprint by 40%, and help protect the planet that your baby will inherit. Even if you only use one reusable nappy change a day, it can make a significant difference. Let's work together to create a more sustainable future for our children.
105. Mud kitchen play
Mud kitchen play is a sensory activity that encourages children to explore and experiment with different textures and materials found in the natural environment. This activity can include making mud pies, building structures with mud, or creating art with mud.
106. Newington Green Wild Walk
Created by Outdoor People. Start at the Green or wherever you feel. Keep your eyes peeled, there's much to reveal! There's fruit trees, big rocks and streams to look for, playgrounds, puddles, tiny creatures and more. What a perfect place for us all to play!
You can also follow this walk on Go Jauntly.
107. Spend some time reading Joanna Macy
Joanna Macy is an environmental activist, author, and scholar who has spent her life advocating for a sustainable and just world. She has written extensively on topics related to ecology, Buddhism, and social change, and is known for developing a framework called "The Work That Reconnects," which is aimed at helping individuals and communities to develop resilience and take action in the face of environmental crises.
Macy's teachings emphasise the importance of cultivating gratitude, empathy, and interconnectedness with all beings, and encourage individuals to take responsibility for their role in creating a more just and sustainable world. By embracing these principles, Macy believes that individuals can find a sense of purpose and connection, which can lead to greater happiness and fulfillment in life.
In short, Macy's work can help to make people happier by providing a framework for understanding the interdependence of all things, and by offering practical tools for individuals to take action and make a positive impact on the world. Her teachings encourage individuals to develop a deep appreciation for the natural world, and to find meaning and purpose in working to create a more just and sustainable future.
108. Build a bat box
Building a bat box in the can be a simple and effective way to help support bat conservation and enhance biodiversity in your local area.
There are some great guides available from The Wildlife Trusts, RSPB and The Bat Conservation Trust.
Why you should build a bat box
Provide habitat for bats: Bat boxes can provide a safe and suitable roosting habitat for bats, especially in areas where natural roosting sites have been lost due to urbanisation or habitat destruction.
Help bat conservation efforts: Many bat species are in decline in the UK, and providing bat boxes can help support conservation efforts by creating additional roosting sites for bats.
Natural pest control: Bats are natural pest controllers, eating a large amount of insects such as moths, mosquitoes, and midges, which can help to reduce the need for chemical pesticides.
Educational opportunity: Building a bat box can provide an educational opportunity to learn more about bats and their ecology. It can also be a fun and rewarding project to undertake with children.
Enhance biodiversity: Bat boxes can help to enhance biodiversity in your local area by attracting more bat species and increasing the availability of insect prey for other wildlife.
109. Reduce energy consumption
Implement energy-efficient lighting systems, use energy-efficient equipment, and encourage employees to turn off lights and electronics when not in use. LED bulbs help to reduce energy consumption and lower costs.
110. Try None Sponge
None Sponge is an eco friendly, plastic-free, reusable alternative to a disposable washing up sponge. Perfect for anyone aspiring to a zero-waste lifestyle.
This brand new, plant based, cotton sponge arrives compressed. When wet, the plant based core expands into a squishy, scrubby sponge that is entirely plastic free and landfill free. Each sponge has a soft cotton side and a scrubbier, mesh side, so they'e perfect for all kinds of washing up. As well as being an excellent washing up sponge, they're great for general cleaning too! Founder Debbie Rees set out to make truly ethically made items that are not only reusable but also beautiful
111. DOUBLE your donation. DOUBLE your impact
The Green Match Fund is a program launched by the Big Give, a charitable organization that promotes and facilitates philanthropy. The Green Match Fund aims to support environmental initiatives and projects by providing matching funds to encourage donations from individuals and businesses.
The concept of the Green Match Fund revolves around doubling the impact of donations made to environmental causes. When a donor contributes to a participating environmental project through the Big Give platform during a specific campaign period, the Green Match Fund matches that donation, effectively doubling its value. This incentivizes individuals and businesses to contribute to environmental causes, knowing that their donation will have an even greater impact.
The Green Match Fund operates through campaigns that are typically time-limited, encouraging donors to give within a specific window. These campaigns may focus on specific environmental themes, such as wildlife conservation, renewable energy, or reforestation, among others. By aligning with specific themes, the Green Match Fund ensures that the donated funds are directed towards projects that address pressing environmental challenges.
Through the Green Match Fund, the Big Give aims to amplify the support for environmental projects, encourage new donors to engage in environmental philanthropy, and raise awareness about the importance of protecting the environment. By leveraging matching funds, the initiative creates a sense of urgency and motivation for individuals and businesses to contribute, as their donations will have a multiplied impact on the projects they care about.
112 Fire-building and cooking on an open fire
This activity teaches children important skills such as fire safety, teamwork, and cooking skills. Children can learn to build a fire using natural materials found in the forest or outdoor environment, and then cook food over the fire, such as marshmallows or hot dogs.
113 Make an Earth Day Change
"Make an Earth Day Change" is an initiative that encourages individuals and communities to take action on Earth Day and make positive changes that contribute to a more sustainable and environmentally friendly world. Earth Day, observed annually on April 22nd, is a global event that raises awareness about environmental issues and promotes collective efforts to protect and preserve our planet.
"Make an Earth Day Change" recognises that small actions can make a big difference when it comes to environmental sustainability. It emphasises the power of individual choices and encourages people to adopt sustainable practices in their daily lives. Whether it's conserving energy, reducing waste, supporting eco-friendly businesses, or advocating for environmental policies, every action counts in creating a greener future.
The initiative seeks to inspire individuals to reflect on their personal impact on the environment and make changes that align with the principles of sustainability. It provides resources, information, and practical tips to help people understand the environmental challenges we face and take meaningful steps towards positive change. By engaging individuals, "Make an Earth Day Change" aims to create a collective movement of individuals committed to making a lasting impact on the health and well-being of our planet.
"Make an Earth Day Change" also promotes community engagement and collaboration. It encourages individuals to connect with local organizations, participate in Earth Day events, and join forces with others who share a common goal of environmental stewardship. By working together, we can amplify our efforts and create a ripple effect of positive change that extends beyond Earth Day.
114. Protest
Protesting against climate change is important for several reasons:
Raising awareness: Protests can help raise awareness about the urgent need to address climate change. By bringing attention to the issue, protesters can help educate others about the impacts of climate change and the importance of taking action to mitigate its effects.
Holding leaders accountable: Protests can put pressure on government officials and other leaders to take action on climate change. This includes advocating for policies that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, protect natural resources, and promote sustainability.
Building momentum: Protests can help build momentum for a movement to address climate change. By bringing together people from different backgrounds and communities, protests can help create a sense of shared purpose and motivate people to take action.
Showing solidarity: Protests can demonstrate solidarity with communities that are disproportionately affected by climate change. This includes indigenous communities, low-income communities, and communities of colour, who often bear the brunt of environmental degradation and climate-related disasters.
Urging action: Protests can send a powerful message to policymakers and other leaders that urgent action is needed to address climate change. By showing that people are willing to take to the streets to demand change, protests can help spur action on this critical issue.
Overall, protesting against climate change is an important way to advocate for a more sustainable and equitable future. By speaking out and taking action, individuals can help ensure that the world takes the steps necessary to address this pressing global challenge.
115. How to build a Hedgehog Hole
A hedgehog hole is a small opening that you can create in a fence or wall to allow hedgehogs to move freely through your garden or yard. Hedgehogs are beneficial to have around as they eat slugs, snails, and insects, but they can get trapped in fenced-in areas without a way to escape. Here are the steps to make a hedgehog hole:
Choose a suitable location for the hedgehog hole. It should be low to the ground and wide enough for a hedgehog to fit through, but not so big that other animals can enter.
Measure the size of the hole you want to create. A hedgehog hole should be approximately 13cm x 13cm (5 inches x 5 inches).
Use a saw or drill to create the hole in the fence or wall. If the material is too hard, you may need to use a chisel to create the hole.
Smooth any rough edges around the hole to prevent injury to the hedgehog.
Place a small ramp on each side of the hole to make it easier for the hedgehog to climb through. You can use bricks or rocks to create the ramp.
Check the hole periodically to make sure it remains clear of debris or any other obstructions.
By following these steps, you can create a hedgehog hole that will allow these adorable creatures to move freely through your garden.
116. Switch to renewable energy
Install solar panels, wind turbines, or other renewable energy systems to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
The Leaside Trust have recently received funding for a solar project that will reduce its carbon impact and energy costs while providing a warm and inviting space for visitors. 64 rooftop solar panels and an air-sourced heat pump have been installed as part of the project, which will be led by Hackney's solar experts at Stokey Energy.
117. Support Clean Air Wins
The Clean Air Wins mission is to reduce air pollution across London, to protect our city’s most vulnerable communities, and to make sure all Londoners can breathe clean, safe air.
Together, we can send a message loud and clear that Londoners want clean air now. We all win when we breathe clean air. So join us to stop toxic air in our city.
118. Join The City Nature Challenge
The City Nature Challenge is an annual four-day global 'bioblitz' nature hunt, to assist in recording and protecting wildlife in urban areas. Every year, cities all over the world take part in friendly and fun competitions to see who can gather the most observations of nature and find the most species.
Check out the City Nature Challenge Education Toolkit!
119. Share your community
The new London National Park City Community site is now free and open to everyone, and it’s easy to create and share events that you are organising, have heard about, or plan to attend – if it’s happening outside in London National Park City, we want people to know about it!
120. Go on a Tree Walk
There are many wonderful Tree Walk events happening during the Spring and Summer but The Urban Tree Festival is the biggest.
The Urban Tree Festival is a celebration of urban trees. There’s a whole host of in person and online events including tree walks. Going on a tree walk is an enriching experience that allows us to reconnect with nature and appreciate the beauty and significance of trees. As we wander through a forest, park, or any green space, we encounter a diverse array of trees, each with its unique characteristics and stories to tell. From towering giants to delicate saplings, the trees captivate our senses with their graceful forms, vibrant foliage, and soothing whispers of leaves in the breeze. A tree walk provides an opportunity to observe and learn about different tree species, their ecological roles, and the valuable benefits they provide to our environment. It is a chance to slow down, breathe in the fresh air, and immerse ourselves in the tranquility of nature, reminding us of the importance of preserving and protecting these magnificent living beings.
121. Brighten up your living space
All these bank holidays mean you might have more time to do a little bit of home decorating and DIY.
By painting interior walls in pale colour you’ll make your rooms look brighter and reduce the need for artificial light
Living in a brighter space helps us to feel more energetic and lifts our mood. It is a known fact that light has a direct impact on our brain and our hormone balance via the retina in our eyes. The happiness neurotransmitter serotonin isn't released to the same extent if we don't receive enough light.
