More Simple Swaps
The news on climate change has had some good and bad news in the past few weeks.
A team at Exeter University has discovered a disastrous collapse in the ozone layer has been avoided (for now) from a ban of CFC chemicals in the late 1980s. The prohibition of these ozone-destroying concoctions made a considerable change in the state of our atmosphere - proving that change is possible if we take affirmative action and that we can adapt our consumption of products to help the planet.
In bad news, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) has said 'humanity is in the red' regarding the climate crisis. Helping the ozone layer was just one way we've been destroying our planet over previous centuries, and if we don't make massive changes soon, the damage will be irreversible.
With that in mind, we've got some more swaps that you can make to your everyday life to help take the pressure off the planet.
1. Reuse, reuse, reuse.
Before you buy something, think how many times you can use it; packaging and all (except food, obviously). If the answer is only once, try and find something else. It's no use buying a reusable water bottle if it's wrapped in plastic or sent from Amazon.
2. Buy local.
We don't just mean a local grocer or butcher - as great as it is to do so, not everyone has that option. We mean, if the shops are close enough to walk, then walk. Or maybe take public transport. Try and minimise your single-car usage as much as you can.
3. Water, water, everywhere.
Except it's not -
Our planet may be 71% water, but that doesn't mean we have an endless supply. Water shortages are expected to affect five billion people by the year 2050. Nice long showers might feel great, but try and limit how long you're showering. Keep to under 5 minutes if you can. Or, you can join the ranks of celebs like Julia Roberts and Cameron Diaz in their trend of not washing until necessary!
4. Wipe Away
If you haven't already, it's time to get rid of disposable wipes; there are many reusable options. We love these Dream Cloths from Who Gives a Crap that can be chucked in the dishwasher for a thorough clean so you can reuse them, and they entirely biodegrade once you're finished.
5. Pressure the Top
None of us is perfect. We can try and consume less plastic, water and meat, but we are human, and as such, we are bound by our families' needs, the time we have and money. If you want to impact significant change, let's talk about the big boys… Make today the day you simply swap fifteen minutes of watching television or reading a book, or whatever you do to wind down, and send a letter or an email to your MP or one of the big oil companies and demand better for you and the future generations.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres said: "If we combine forces now, we can avert climate catastrophe. But, as today's report makes clear, there is no time for delay and no room for excuses."
The small changes we make every day may not change the world overnight, but they won't make it worse either.
Why not share some of your favourite swops?
Swop your wrapping paper
One easy swop you can make is to exchange plastic, non-recyclable wrapping paper for our beautifully designed, UK made, vegan wrapping paper.
Got a birthday party coming up where you can finally give gifts in person? Our Thistle Be A Great Birthday print is available in our wraps and matching tags. Shop the full range here.