Flash back - the list

As I continue going through the different areas of my flat, cleaning out and up, I am bringing together books, articles and other things related to this blog. One of these is a list that has been stuck to my fridge for a few years. Its 20 recommendations on how to be "greener". Maybe some of you have seen it? 

Reading through it again, I realize how much of this has become second nature. And also how much I still have not done. Would love to know your thought. So, herewith, a translation of the list:

1. Before buying anything, ask yourself: "do I really need it ?"

2. Don't systematically switch on the hot water. Only use it when it is really neccesary.

3. Before throwing something away ask yourself if it can be recycled or reused.

4. Avoid canned drinks - the cans cost more than the actual drink and barely any are recycled. Make sure you recycle yours.

5. Always opt for machines you can connect to the electric grid to charge rather than those that need batteries. And make sure you take batteries to their specific disposal points.

6. Unplug all electric appliances when you are not using them. That includes your TV, DVD, etc, as they continue to leech electricity when in stand by mode, especially if you use the remote control to put it on stand by.

7. Avoid buying small electric devices that do exactly what you can do with your hands:  can openers, etc. If you need to buy any new appliance (TV, fridge, washing machine...) be sure to check its green credentials: low consumption, recyclable or recycled materials. And take good care of them to keep them efficient and make them last longer. 

8. Whenever possible go for lower voltage and eco friendly bulbs. They may cost more, but they also last alot longer, making it an intelligent long term investment, as they use up to 5 times less energy and last up to 8 times longer than conventional bulbls. Think about that! Fluorescent and halogen lamps also last longer and need less energy.

9. Avoid aerosoles. They contain CFCs, that cause the destruction of the ozone layer, along with many other gases that contribute to the green house effect. 

10. Most cleaning products are highly polluting. Try to use soap, bicarbonate soda, vinager and lemon instead. Between them, they can clean and disinfect almost anything.  Its cheaper too. (But if you still hanker for "remedies in a bottle" there are now some very good green, biodegradable products on offer. And yes, most include these home remedies in their formulations...)

11. House fragrances don't tend to eliminate bad smells, they just add to the mix. Choose carefully for those that do eliminate smells, and add pleasanter smells with natural options such as incense and soya candles.  

12. Your fridge's ideal temperature is between 3 and 5º C. Place it as far away from the oven, stove and heating system as you can. Make sure you always close it well and never leave it open while you come and go.

13. To save water, instal a double charge system in your WC. Opt to shower instead of taking baths and never leave the tap on while you wash your face or your teeth. Same goes for cleaning the dishes. Tap shut!

14. Use both the washing machine and the dishwasher only when they are fully loaded. And try to stick with low temperature programmes. They get the job done and save on energy.

15. Avoid processed food: its got too many additives and preservatives apart from being wrapped in way to much plastic, cardboard and styrofoam. Opt for fresh produce from your region that is season apropriate. 

16.Keep food in tupper ware or recycle glass pots, instead of using aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Remember to cook with the pots covered (less energy used, and gets cooked faster), and keep your pots and pans in proportion with the quantity of food you are making.

17. Do not print out everything. Think before you use paper and recycle, recycle, recycle.  Also buy recycled paper.

18. Do not over heat or over cool your home or your office. Make sure all your spaces are well insulated, keep the thermostat down to 19º C in winter, and 25º C in summer.  You'll avoid colds, save money and limit pollution to boot!

19. If you have medicines in your cabinet that have long passed they're expiry date, take them to your pharmacy to get rid of them responsably. 

20. Avoid all forms of PVC and plastic containers. 

When I get back from rehabilitation Pilates I will let you in on how well I fair in respecting this list. Would love to know what you do or not and if you can recommend any additions to this list.

Ciao for now!