Sponsored by
Do your sums this summer
HAS anyone noticed that cutting back on your carbon footprint is not just great for the environment but your pocket too? Quite often going green helps our bank balances as well as our immediate environment.
So what better time then, to consider living an eco lifestyle when we step outdoors this summer?
One way is to use the summer weather – come rain or shine – to your advantage.
Sunshine can be captured by solar powered gadgets, which will save you pounds on your electricity bill in the long run. There is a fantastic selection of solar powered radios, lights and chargers available on the high street or online.
That means that you can power up anything with a rechargeable battery for free such as your MP3 player, mobile phone or laptop.
Make sure you take advantage of the sun by hanging out your washing. The Energy Saving Trust, a not-for-profit organisation, has found that not using your tumble dryer can save you 16.
Rain is just as useful. Invest in a water butt to catch and store water that would usually just wash away. It can be used to water your garden, houseplants, or when washing your car. This will especially benefit those with water meters.
Hosepipe
Swap your hosepipe for a watering can to significantly reduce the amount of water you use. Hosepipes emit as much as 18 litres of water a minute.
If you have an outdoor space also think about making good use of the earth. Growing your own fruit, vegetables and herbs will save you up to 200 a year.
Better still you can recycle food leftovers and waste to make sure your soil is up to the job.
Composting is a great way to get rid of egg shells, fruit and vegetable peelings, tea bags and even shredded paper.
For a great guide to making your own compost go to www.recyclenow.com/ home_composting.
English summers are unpredictable but rather than splashing out on a patio heater, think about pulling on a jumper and huddling around the remaining coals of the barbecue.
Avoid using disposable plates, cups and cutlery. Make do with your usual crockery and invest i n a permanent barbecue. There is no excuse with simple grill buckets currently on sale at Dunelm for just 7.99.
For more details visit www.energy savingtrust.org.uk.
Leave the car at home
CUTTING back on transport costs makes a lot of sense.
The average driver could save around 350 a year by sharing commutes with two other drivers.
And if you are trying to lose weight or get fit, cycling will help you burn calories. Considering the fact that more than half of all car journeys in Great Britain are less than five miles this really makes sense.
Consider using the air con sparingly both in the car as it significantly increases fuel consumption.
Remember that at lower speeds, it is better to open a window but when travelling above 45mph the air con makes more sense.
Why not make use of the lighter nights and try your commute by bike?
To find local cycle routes, and for cycling safety tips check out the Sustrans website at www.
sustrans.co.uk
If you are thinking of switching to or already use public transport remember to look out for discounted rail fares
A Family and Friends Railcard gives a third off adult fares and 60 per cent off kids' rail fares with up to four adults and four children permitted to travel on the same card.
Explore the beauty of the UK for inspiration on great holidays and days out.
Here are some useful web addresses: www.
visityorkshire.co.uk; www.digyorkshire.co.uk; www.enjoyengland.com; www.visitscotland.com.
Walking 10,000 steps a day improves your health, builds stamina and burns calories.
More than a third of Britons take walks of 20 minutes (or more), three or more times a week but just under a quarter of people say they walk for 20 minutes or more less than once a year – or never.
The site www.walkit.com can help you plan walking routes.
Email to a friend
Print this page- Leeds United: Whites ponder next move in hunt for new manager LATEST
- Web poll: Who is to blame for Leeds United’s league position? VOTE HERE
- Leeds United: Time for Ken Bates and Co to listen up
- Leeds man remanded on sister murder charge UPDATED
- Leeds United: Aston Villa boss drops hint on Fabian Delph
Looking for...
Featured advertisers
Jobs
Search for a job
Motors
Search for a car
Property
Search for a house
Weather for Leeds
Sunday 12 February 2012
Today
Cloudy
Temperature: 0 C to 5 C
Wind Speed: 7 mph
Wind direction: North west
Tomorrow
Sunny spells
Temperature: 4 C to 8 C
Wind Speed: 17 mph
Wind direction: North west
