365 Ways to Help the Planet - Part 6
Welcome to another exciting month filled with daily ideas to make a positive impact on our planet. We've got some fantastic strategies to empower volunteers and foster stronger communities.
For those of you who are keen to make your workplace more eco-friendly, we've assembled a treasure trove of tips and tricks. Whether you run a business or simply want to introduce sustainability to your workplace, you'll find valuable insights.
If you missed our earlier instalments, make sure to catch up on Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4 and Part 5 of our "Ways to Help The Planet" series.
And if you're a business looking to embark on the sustainability journey, don't miss our comprehensive resources on "Creating a Culture of Sustainability: Best Sustainable Business Practices" and our training to get started. Let's make a positive change together!
153. Become a Living Wage Employer
We’re proud of our accreditation as a Living Wage Employer.
The positive implications for the environment include:
Reduced income inequality: By paying their employees the real Living Wage, ecoACTIVE contributes to reducing income inequality. When workers receive fair compensation, it enables them to meet their basic needs without struggling financially. This stability and financial security can reduce stress and improve overall well-being, leading to a more sustainable lifestyle.
Enhancing social sustainability: The Living Wage commitment by ecoACTIVE demonstrates their dedication to social sustainability. By ensuring that their employees earn a wage they can live on, ecoACTIVE supports a more inclusive and equitable society. This commitment fosters a sense of social cohesion, strengthens community bonds, and promotes a healthier and more resilient society, which in turn supports environmental initiatives.
Encouraging responsible consumption: Providing a wage that meets the cost of living encourages responsible consumption practices. When individuals earn a fair wage, they are less likely to struggle financially and can afford sustainable and eco-friendly products and services. This can promote a shift towards more sustainable consumption patterns, reducing the environmental impact of resource-intensive or environmentally harmful products.
Supporting environmental advocacy: ecoACTIVE’s decision to pay the real Living Wage aligns with the principles of environmental advocacy. By prioritising fair wages and economic justice, ecoACTIVE supports a holistic approach to sustainability that includes social and economic factors alongside environmental concerns. This commitment sends a positive message and can inspire other organizations to adopt similar practices, fostering a culture of sustainability.
154. Planting and maintaining a small garden
Children can learn about gardening and how to care for plants by planting and maintaining a small garden in the forest or outdoor environment. Local children in Hackney have already been busy helping re-wilding areas of Daubney Fields has part of the Hackney Buzzline.
155. Explore Walthamstow Wetlands
Opposite our office at Leaside is Walthamstow Wetlands, a huge, internationally important reserve. Just 15 minutes from central London, and free to visit, you will find a unique haven to explore, enjoy and connect with nature.
If you decide to become a member of the London Wildlife Trust your monthly gift will:
Challenge actions and developments that threaten wildlife
Care for more than 36 nature reserves across London
Protect rare species and nature in the capital
Give London's children the chance to experience real wildlife and nature close to their own homes
156. Talk to Strangers
Embrace the Power of Connection! Engaging in conversations with strangers, even in bustling cities, may seem daunting. We often barely know our neighbours. However, these encounters can lead to extraordinary journeys, fostering a happier and friendlier world for all. Start a conversation today and unlock new possibilities of human connection.
157. How to build a Vertical Garden
Building a vertical garden can be a fun and rewarding project. Here are some steps to help you get started:
Choose a suitable location: Find a wall or structure that receives adequate sunlight and is suitable for mounting your vertical garden.
Decide on the type of vertical garden: There are various options, such as living walls, trellises, pocket gardens, or modular systems. Select the design that suits your space and preferences.
Prepare the wall or structure: Ensure the surface is clean and sturdy. If needed, repair or reinforce the wall before installation.
Select the plants: Consider the lighting conditions and choose plants that thrive in the available light. Opt for plants with shallow root systems and those suited for vertical growth. Herbs, succulents, and trailing plants are popular choices.
Install a support structure: Depending on your chosen design, you may need to install trellises, frames, or modular panels to support the plants. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation.
Provide proper irrigation: Plan for a suitable watering system. This can include drip irrigation, a built-in watering system, or hand watering. Ensure that excess water can drain properly to avoid waterlogging.
Planting the garden: Follow the planting instructions for each plant. Plant them securely in the designated spots, making sure the root system is well-covered with soil or other growing medium.
Regular maintenance: Monitor the plants' growth, watering needs, and overall health. Prune and trim as necessary. Fertilize the plants as recommended by the specific plant's requirements.
158. Conducting sustainability assessments
Step 2: Gather and Assess Data for Sustainable Progress!
Unlock the power of data to drive sustainable change within your company. Collect valuable insights from diverse sources like energy bills, waste management records, employee feedback, supplier information, and community outreach reports.
By analysing this data, you can assess your company's current performance against defined criteria, empowering you to make informed decisions for a greener future. Harness the potential of data-driven sustainability and pave the way for positive transformations!
159. Benefits of Park Friends Groups for volunteers
CONNECTIONS - Connect with others and explore common interests
LEARNING - Use, acquire and develop skills
RECOGNITION - Be part of activity which is valued and appreciated
160. TryToodle Skincare
Who's up for a thrilling family exploration? From beach trips to exhilarating wilderness quests, we're ready to dive into endless outdoor activities! And when it comes to stepping out into nature, Toddle have you covered with the perfect selection of products to protect your little ones.
✔️ Sensitive Sun Spray
✔️ Insect Repellent
✔️ Bite & Sting Relief
✔️ 100 Family Adventure - Ultimate Bucket List A3
161. Exploring water sources and aquatic life
Children can learn about the different types of water sources found in the forest or outdoor environment, including rivers, streams, and ponds. They can also learn about aquatic life, such as fish, frogs, and insects.
162. Help create a new national walking network
This summer people across Great Britain were invited to help kick-start a new national tradition – the Great Slow Ways Waycheck.
The goal was simple – to collectively walk, run, wheel and check as many Slow Ways walking routes as possible in June, over the longest, brightest days of the year.
The effort was organised by Slow Ways, the grassroots initiative to create a national network of walking routes that connect all of Great Britain’s towns, cities and national parks.
163. The Great Big Green Week
Take part in The Great Big Green Week that happens every year in June.
This incredible event celebrates community action in tackling climate change and promoting a greener, more sustainable future. The Great Big Green Week is an opportunity for individuals and communities to come together and make a positive impact on our environment.
During this week-long celebration, there are a wide range of activities, events, and initiatives taking place across various locations. From educational workshops to interactive exhibitions, from sustainable living demonstrations to discussions on environmental issues, there is something for everyone to engage with and learn from.
164. How to plant a tree
Planting a tree can be a rewarding experience. Here are some general steps to follow:
Choose a suitable location: Consider the tree species, its sunlight and soil requirements, and the available space for growth.
Prepare the site: Remove any grass, weeds, or debris around the planting area. Loosen the soil with a shovel or garden fork.
Dig the hole: Dig a hole that is wider and slightly shallower than the tree's root ball. The hole should accommodate the roots without bending or crowding them.
Place the tree: Gently place the tree in the hole, ensuring that the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the ground. Adjust the tree's position as needed.
Backfill the hole: Gradually fill the hole with soil, firming it gently around the roots. Avoid compacting the soil too much, as it can hinder root growth.
Water the tree: Give the newly planted tree a good amount of water immediately after planting. This helps settle the soil and provides moisture for the roots.
Mulch the base: Apply a layer of mulch around the base of the tree, leaving a small gap around the trunk. Mulch helps retain moisture, suppresses weeds, and regulates soil temperature.
Provide ongoing care: Regularly water the tree during the first few years, especially during dry periods. Prune dead or damaged branches as needed, and monitor for pests or diseases.
165. Conduct sustainability assessments
Step 3: Uncover Insights for Sustainable Success!
Delve into the collected data and unlock its transformative potential. Analyse and evaluate with precision to identify trends, strengths, weaknesses, and areas for improvement.
Discover patterns, outliers, and valuable opportunities to enhance your sustainability efforts. Embrace a holistic view and align with both short-term wins and long-term goals. With a keen eye for improvement, let data guide your journey towards sustainable success.
166. Benefits of Park Friends groups for greenspace
INVESTMENT - Additional funding, volunteering, skills and lobbying
PROTECTION - Monitoring championing and defence of site
PROMOTION - Publicity and encouragement to use
167. Clean Air Day
Now is the time to act for clean air for all Londoners. Air pollution is an urgent problem, but it is solvable. London leaders are proposing solutions that can clean up the city's air.
Everyone in London deserves clean air. From borough to borough, all Londoners are affected by toxic air, damaging their health. It's crucial to raise awareness and support clean air measures.
Support clean air measures by asking your local councillor to take action.
Share your support for clean air with your family, friends, and community. Encourage them to speak up and join the cause. Use the hashtag #CleanAirDay to share your stories and promote awareness.
Let London leaders know they have your support for clean air measures. Write to your local councillor using the provided letter template and encourage others to do the same.
Remind everyone that clean air is a collective responsibility. By coming together and taking action, we can create a healthier future for London. Let's not miss this chance for change.
168. Observing wildlife and tracking footprints
Children can learn about the different types of wildlife found in the forest or outdoor environment and how to identify their tracks.
169. Step into the Footsteps of Kings and Queens with this amazing walk from Footways
Embark on a fascinating journey along our quiet route, tracing the historic procession path of monarchs from the Tower to Westminster for their coronation. Discover intriguing places associated with royalty and immerse yourself in centuries of regal history. This 4-mile (6.5km) adventure that will transport you back in time!
Kings and Queens Footways Route
170. Optimising your air conditioning for eco-friendliness
This involves various strategies to reduce energy usage and minimise environmental impact:
Embrace natural ventilation: Utilise natural ventilation by opening windows during cooler parts of the day or using window fans to draw in fresh air. This can effectively reduce the reliance on air conditioning, especially in mild weather conditions.
Employ shading and insulation: Utilise shades, blinds, or curtains to block direct sunlight and prevent excessive heat from entering your space. Additionally, ensuring proper insulation in walls, roofs, and windows helps maintain a cooler indoor temperature, reducing the need for heavy air conditioning usage.
171. How feed birds in your garden
Calling all bird lovers! Create a haven for our feathered friends right in your garden with these simple tips on bird feeding!
Choose the right feeder: Select feeders that suit the birds in your area, such as hanging feeders for small birds or platform feeders for ground-feeding species. Get creative with colourful and attractive designs!
Provide a variety of bird-friendly food: Offer a mix of seeds, nuts, fruits, and suet to attract different bird species. This ensures a well-rounded diet and attracts a diverse range of beautiful visitors.
Keep it fresh and clean: Regularly clean your feeders to prevent the spread of diseases. Also, replace the bird food regularly to ensure it stays fresh and avoid mold growth.
Make it water-friendly: Birds need water for drinking and bathing. Place a shallow birdbath or a water feature nearby, ensuring a fresh and clean water source for your feathered friends.
Create a safe environment: Position feeders away from potential predators like cats and place them near trees or shrubs for cover. This provides a safe space for birds to feed and take shelter.
172. Conduct sustainability assessments
Step 4: Aim High, Set Targets for Sustainable Triumph!
Harness the power of assessment findings to pave your path towards a greener future. Set realistic, measurable targets for improvement that are specific, time-bound, and aligned with your company's overarching sustainability strategy.
Whether it's reducing energy consumption by a specific percentage or amplifying employee volunteering hours, these targets will drive your progress and inspire change.
Embrace the challenge and let your targets propel you towards sustainable triumph! Together, we can make a positive impact.
173. Benefits of Park Friends groups for greenspace
DECISION-MAKING - Better and more popular decisions, engagement and continuity
USAGE- More visitors, natural benefits and appreciation
SAFETY - Community surveillance helps deter crime
IMPROVEMENT - Better standards, and extra facilities and features
174. Support Environmental Artists
We visited the extraordinary exhibition "Dear Earth: Art and Hope in a Time of Crisis" at the Hayward Gallery's community event. This pioneering group show showcases artistic responses to the climate emergency and takes you on a profound journey exploring themes of care, hope, interdependence, emotional connection, and activism. It's truly a powerful experience that reshapes our perceptions and calls for positive change.
The artworks presented here go beyond aesthetics—they deeply resonate on an emotional and spiritual level. They inspire a sense of empathy and invite us to reflect on our role as caretakers of our planet. The artists have skillfully reframed our psychological and spiritual responses to the climate crisis, offering a glimmer of joy and a call to action.
It's incredible to witness the ways in which art can spark conversations and ignite a collective sense of responsibility. Each piece represents a voice in the fight for a sustainable future. Walking through the gallery, I felt a profound connection to the artists' vision and a renewed determination to make a difference.
This exhibition is a testament to the power of art to instill hope, foster empathy, and promote political and social activism. It's a must-visit for anyone who believes in the transformative potential of creativity in addressing our planet's challenges. Let's come together and embrace the call for change, hand in hand with these talented artists.
175. Team building activities such as group challenges, games or problem-solving tasks
These activities teach children important skills such as teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. Children can work together to complete challenges or games that require them to use their critical thinking skills and work together as a team.
176. Create your own nature trail
Community Nature Trails. Showcase local natural treasures on your own public map to inspire others to take action for nature.
Create a Community Nature Trail
Are you passionate about nature and want to inspire others to take action for nature where you live? With Community Nature Trails, you can showcase the natural treasures in your local area on a public map to inspire others to connect with nature and each other.
What is a community nature trail?
A Community Nature Trail is a local map of public sights, activities, events, and projects that involve engaging with or taking action for nature. It's created by the community, for the community.
Whether it's permanent, for a season, or just for a weekend, a Community Nature Trail is a great way to showcase local social, cultural, and recreational activities involving nature, to build appreciation for the things people love where you live, and to involve new people in projects that improve the local area.
How it works
The Eden Project have partnered with community event experts More Human to make it really easy to build, promote, and share your nature trail with their handy website.
Use More Human to create a trail in 3 easy steps:
Answer a few easy questions to create a free account
The website will guide you through creating your trail webpage and makes it easy to add sites and activities
The website will generate custom marketing materials for your trail so you can connect more local people with nature
Get started today and help inspire others to take action for nature where you live!
Community Nature Trails is a collaboration between RSPB, Eden Project Communities, and More Human - who all share a passion for empowering everyone to connect with nature and each other.
177 Make a switch from Kitchen Roll
The Environmental Impact of Kitchen Roll
Did you know that using kitchen roll or paper towels can harm the environment? Here's why:
Deforestation: The production of kitchen roll involves cutting down trees, leading to deforestation and habitat loss.
Resource Intensive: Producing paper towels requires large amounts of water, energy, and chemicals, contributing to environmental degradation.
Single-Use Waste: Kitchen roll is usually designed for single-use, generating significant amounts of waste that ends up in landfills.
Lack of Recycling: Most kitchen roll is not recyclable due to low-quality fibers and contamination, resulting in wasted resources.
Carbon Footprint: The entire lifecycle of kitchen roll, from production to disposal, contributes to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.
178. What to feed hedgehogs and badgers
Hedgehogs are omnivorous creatures and have a diverse diet. You can feed them a combination of wet or dry cat food (preferably without fish flavours), high-quality hedgehog food, mealworms, cooked chicken or turkey (unseasoned), scrambled eggs, and a variety of fruits and vegetables such as apples, pears, carrots, and peas. It's important to provide fresh water for them as well.
Badgers are primarily carnivorous and their diet consists mainly of earthworms, insects, and grubs. However, they also consume fruits, berries, and some plant matter. You can provide them with dry dog or cat food, unsalted peanuts, mealworms, suet, and fruits like apples or bananas. Avoid feeding them milk or bread, as it can upset their digestive system. Additionally, ensure a source of fresh water is available for them.
179. Conduct sustainability assessments
Step 5: Unleash Action Plans for Sustainable Impact!
Transform your targets into reality with well-crafted action plans. Dive into the details, outlining the necessary steps and resources needed to achieve your established sustainability targets.
Engage all stakeholders, from employees to suppliers and community partners, in a collaborative journey towards a greener future. Together, we'll maximise the impact of sustainability initiatives and create lasting change.
180. Benefits of Park Friends groups for greenspace
ANIMATION- More activities and initiatives, vibrancy and innovation
COLLABORATION- Development of relations and partnerships
MAINTENANCE- Fast reporting, timely action and extra help
Avoid Greenwashing
Greenwashing has very been so prevalent with todays consumers being more eco conscious than ever. If you run an organisation or lead communications the next few steps are a few ways to help you avoid greenwashing.
181. Clear Communication
Use accurate and specific language when describing environmental efforts. Avoid vague terms like "eco-friendly" or "green" without explaining what they mean in concrete terms.
182. Evidence-Based Claims
Back up environmental claims with verifiable data and evidence. Provide metrics and data that support the company's sustainability achievements.
183. Avoid Exaggeration
Avoid making exaggerated claims or overemphasising minor environmentally-friendly aspects. Be honest about the scope and impact of sustainability efforts.
184. Focus on Impact
Emphasise meaningful actions and tangible results over flashy marketing. Highlight how the company's practices are positively impacting the environment.
185. Independent Verification
Seek third-party certifications and audits from reputable organisations to validate sustainability claims. Independent verification adds credibility to a company's efforts.
186. Avoid Token Gestures
Avoid implementing minor changes solely for the purpose of appearing sustainable. Instead, focus on comprehensive and substantial changes that address real environmental challenges.
187. Long-Term Commitment
Demonstrate a long-term commitment to sustainability, rather than a short-term marketing campaign. Consistency in sustainable practices shows genuine dedication.
188. Educational Efforts
Educate consumers about environmental issues and the significance of sustainability efforts. Companies can play a role in raising awareness and promoting informed choices.
189. Join Hackney Sustainability Day!
In July Hackney host their annual Sustainability Day
This is not just any event—it's a low waste, zero single-use plastic extravaganza! Discover a world of eco-friendly possibilities and gather valuable advice on energy-saving and sustainable living.
Connect with like-minded individuals and explore the remarkable sustainable campaigns, initiatives, and organizations shaping Hackney's future.
Brace yourself for a day packed with excitement! Engage in captivating workshops, savor delicious bites from ethical eateries, browse through engaging stalls, participate in thrilling activities, witness eye-opening demonstrations, and so much more!
Best of all, admission is completely free, and everyone is welcome to join in on the fun.
190. Storytelling or outdoor reading circles
Storytelling or reading circles are a great way for children to learn about the natural environment and the animals that live there. Children can also learn about different cultures and traditions through storytelling.
