Greener Living
The increasing demands we make on the world’s resources has led
to global climate change. The Council believes that much can be
done at a local level to combat this and takes its role in working
towards a sustainable future very seriously.
There are many ways in which we can do our bits; even small
changes can make a big difference. You can find many tips on
various website such as the Energy Saving
Trust, Act on
CO2 and the Environment
Agency.
Reducing waste
There are many reasons to reduce our waste; it stops our rubbish
going to landfill, saves energy and resources, and doesn't cost us
anything. Find out more about recycling
in Kensington and Chelsea.
Reduce: do you really need it? are you
buying unnecessary clothes or stationery? can you buy what you need
from a charity shop? are you cooking too much for yourself?
Reuse: can you use it again? have you made the
best use of it? can it be repaired or refilled?
Recycle: can you recycle it? is it made out of
recyclable materials? can anyone else make use of it? can it
be donated to charity?
Saving energy
The government's Green
Deal initiative can help you make energy efficiency
improvements to your home with no upfront cost to you.
Reducing your energy consumption will
help cut down your CO2 emissions as well as your bills. Switch to
energy saving bulbs and make sure you have switched everything off
before you go to bed or before going out. Consider getting a Power
Down device or a Smart Meter, to monitor how much electricity
you are using. This will not only help you to realise how much you
are using, but also how much you are saving.
The Energy Saving
Trust says the majority of the UK’s least energy-efficient
homes could be brought up to near-average green standards for less
than £3,000 – typically by installing new loft and cavity wall
insulation or a modern boiler. You can use their database to find
available grants and discounts.
Saving water
Water is a precious resource. The lifestyle that many of us lead
today, coupled with climate change and population growth mean that
there is an increasing demand on our water supply. It is important
that we do not take this precious commodity for granted. There are
little things we can all do to help conserve water. Find out more
about how to save water.
Travelling greener
Walking and cycling are healthy, cheap and environmentally
friendly ways to travel. Find your way around by visiting
TfL's website or Walk It. Public transport will also
help reduce the impact of your travel on the environment. If you
really need a car, consider joining a Car Club? You can also learn
to drive smart to save your fuel and pocket. Visit
Road Safety and
Cycling and walking in the borough to find out more.
Buying greener
Taking reusable bags when you go shopping is the first step to
greener shopping. You can then consider the following when you
do your shopping to buy environmentally friendly products:
- is it produced locally? how was it transported?
- does it have excessive packaging?
- how energy efficient is it?
- can you recycle or reuse it?
Green product lables such as Energy Saving
Trust's recommended mark and organic certification
mark make easier to spot greener products. Find out
up-to-date information about labels at gov.uk.
Creating your own green space
Making simple adjustments to a small paved or concreted front
yards can make room for colourful plants and create habitats for
insects, birds and butterflies. By keeping front gardens green, you
can also reduce the risk of flooding, levels of pollution and
noise, and discourage antisocial behaviour. Even if you live at the
top of a five story building, you can create your own mini
green paradise with a few plants in a windowbox.
Contact Environment@rbkc.gov.uk or
call us on: 020 7341 5770 and ask for the ‘Greener Streets’
booklet. This has full of tips on how to create beautiful
‘gardens’ in your home.
If you would like to find out more about the Council's
Community Kitchen Garden project, visit the
Royal Borough Environment Project page.
Further information for residents