Earth Day

Earth Day is an annual event, celebrated on April 22, on which events are held worldwide to demonstrate support for environmental protection. It was first celebrated in 1970, and is now coordinated globally and celebrated in more than 192 countries each year.

It's a good time to think about doing our bit for the environment and for my part I've got a great little project planned. There is a great space at the back of the shop which is a lovely little sun trap. I have had plans in my head to give it a new lease of life using completely recycled materials. So every Saturday morning starting in May between 10-12 I will be running a free workshop that will get you crafting and give you great ideas on how to recycle and reuse lots of everyday items. 

All the family can come along and get involved. Watch this space for more details….in the meantime here are my 10 ten tips for things to do my bit….

1. Give it away don't throw it away - use the new Belmullet Freecycle or your local one to pass on your unwanted items. Click here: Belmullet Freecycle Facebook Page

2. Paint it Eco - Oil based paints release hydrocarbon fumes. 

3. Save Water - use an old bin or drum to collect rain water and water the garden or wash the car with it. (Will help save money with our new water metres as well) 

4. Bag for life - get yourself a bag that you will love to take shopping with you so you don't need to use plastic bags. 

5. Leave the car at home - with this fab weather get on your bike or walk round town….it will also help get back that bikini body for the summer ahem!

6. Think reusable when you drink - buying bottled water is a major use of plastic and a waste of money and don't forget the huge increase in disposable coffee cups. Buy a travel cup and/or a reusable water canteen. They are much better for your health and much better for the environment than plastic bottles.  

7. Slip into something more healthy - The WWF claims that chemicals used on clothes to keep them wrinkle free can be toxic to the environment and linked to health concerns. Switch no natural fabrics, wool, linen, cotton etc

8. Go old school - when doing the cleaning go back to some of the old methods. By using things like vinegar on the windows can cut out a lot of unhealthy chemicals in modern cleaning materials. 

9. Recycle - try and reduce waste but when you can't make sure you recycle as much as possible. Try and switch to products that use refills and reduce packaging.

10. Upcycle - it's all the trend at the moment but it's a great way to reduce waste. Pinterest is a great way to get ideas for what to do.