November Environmentally

Conscious

Environmental issues can feel overwhelming. As an individual it can feel hard to know what to do to help. Each month we will be looking at small changes we can all make, that can make a difference.

Fast Fashion has a big impact on the environment, it is responsible for nearly 10% of global carbon emissions and 20% of global water pollution, from dyes and finishing products. Plastic microfibres are released into the ocean and many workers in the clothing industry face terrible conditions and pay.

In this month’s section we are going to look at small things we can all do to make a change.

BUY SECOND HAND CLOTHING!

This helps in three ways, the charity shop raises money for a good cause, you save money by buying preloved rather than new, and the garment gets used again, saving a new item being made.

Why not set yourself a challenge of only buying clothes from charity shops for a year!

REDUCE WASHING!

Washing clothes wears them out and uses energy and detergents in the process. Consider washing clothes less, try spot cleaning, you don’t always have to wash the whole item.

CONSERVE ENERGY!

Try washing at 30, unless clothes are very dirty, 30 degrees is enough to get them clean. If you have access to a washing line, try to plan your wash days to when it’s not raining. Tumble driers use lots of energy.

MAKE DO AND MEND!

Don’t throw away clothes that could be mended. Socks with holes can be easily darned. Why not organise a Make Do and Mend event for your group or library, it’s a great way to encourage people to reuse and recycle.

See our craft section for some darning tips!