Sometimes, a chance meeting at a networking event gives you an introduction that is pure gold. For me, this year that was Jane Varley. As I worked through the best way for me to incorporate the green agenda into my business meetings, Jane gave me direction ...
She takes all the hype, myth, doom and gloom out of the subject and giving practical straightforward advice that is easy to follow. I know this because I now tick all her 5 top tips and am ready for more.
So, this week I share those top tips with you. This is what Jayne says:
Why do people believe their environmental responsibility starts and ends with recycling? It's because our awareness of the environment has gone up hugely over the past couple of years.
We know that plastics are damaging our oceans and killing wildlife. We know that climate change is causing drought and flooding. We know that insect populations are declining at an alarming rate.
Public figures, such as David Attenborough, Greta Thunberg, and Hugh Fernley-Whittingstall, have made the environment a talking point, a matter for concern.
So, why is recycling always the fallback position for doing environmental good? It isn't even the best thing we can do about waste; refusing, reducing and reusing are far better options.
Perhaps the reason for this reliance on recycling is that people get overwhelmed. They want to do something, and recycling is accessible; it's easy. But there are plenty of other things can we do to protect the environment, and here are the top five:
- Switch to a green energy supplier
By using a green energy supplier, you buy energy that is provided by renewable sources, and boost investment in it.
- Eat less meat and dairy
The meat and dairy industry is causing deforestation. Rainforests are replaced with crops to feed cattle. Switch to plant-based meals several times a week to save carbon and trees.
- Take fewer flights
Avoid taking business trips by air by using the ever-growing technology that allows us to meet online. Taking the train and driving are usually more environmentally friendly. Short haul flights are the worst – they use more fossil fuels per mile.
- Don't waste food
If food waste was a country, it would be the third highest carbon emitter in the world. Make a list, buy what you need, and try to find ways to use your leftovers or scraps.
- Walk, cycle, take public transport, or use an electric vehicle
These are just a few of the actions you can easily take to help the environment. Start by doing one or two and build from there. And do continue to recycle – it's better than throwing it into landfill or burning it.
Thank you Jane. Do you want to learn more about how you can contribute to the reversal of the damage we're doing to our planet?
Why not look at what the Green Business Network has to offer and let Jane use her strange wealth of knowledge work for you?
Oh, and tell all your network too!
If you'd like to learn more about referral marketing then do give me a call on 07970 638857 and let's have a chat and see how I can help you.