7 Days, 7 Ways

ea457adccaa9e569cff05de9b4f3b04d_XLMonday

Go vegetarian once a week. Meat Free Monday is a campaign started by Sir Paul McCartney and his daughters Stella and Mary. Giving up meat one day a week will save money, reduce your environmental impact and improve your health. Visit www.meatfreemondays.com/recipes for recipe ideas.

Tuesday

Ban bottled water. Many of the plastic water bottles go straight to landfill once discarded. So ditch your bottle of designer water and stick with good old tap water instead. If you’re concerned about water purity, invest in a jug water filter or install a filter system in your kitchen.

Wednesday

Go unplugged. One night a week, take a break from technology and ban all screens from your home. That means no computer, TV or mobile phones. Instead, why not cook a meal and reconnect with your family over dinner, take a dance class, go for a walk or just relax and read a book?

Thursday

Dedicate at least one day a week to walking or cycling to work. You’ll use fewer fossil fuels, create less greenhouse gases and become fitter and healthier. If you live too far from work to get there by foot or bike, consider carpooling with your colleagues or getting off the bus a few stops earlier.

Friday

Turn off electronic devices every night and when you leave the house. Don’t just press the “off” switch’; many appliances still consume power in “standby” mode. Plug devices into a standard surge protector, then flip the switch. You’ll help the environment and slash your electricity bill.

Saturday

Fill your garden with Australian natives. They require less water and maintenance and are more resistant to pests and diseases than exotic varieties. They also attract native wildlife and beneficial insects to your garden. Popular choices include acacia, banksias, eucalypts, grevillea, kangaroo paw and waratahs.

Sunday

Think local. There’s no better place to start making a difference to the planet than in your local community. Help out at a permaculture garden, volunteer to clean up a local site or sign up for bush regeneration or wildlife protection. Visit www.govolunteer.com.au for opportunities in your area.