Protecting our planet – by Brian Mayne

THE start of a new year is the perfect time to set out our intentions to not only improve our own lives but also benefit our environment and community.

New Year’s resolutions can be powerful tools for change, especially when they’re simple, practical, and focused on sustainability. Here are five achievable eco-friendly actions you can make for the new year, along with local resources to help you.

Reducing and reusing are essential principles for minimising waste and promoting sustainability, helping to conserve resources and protect the environment. There are several community groups on Facebook where you can find tips and swap reusable items with neighbours. There is also the wonderful Eto, the preloved baby and children’s store in the heart of Barry. A not-for-profit social enterprise, where all funds raised are put back into the community.

Choosing greener transport by walking, cycling, car sharing, or using public transport more often can significantly reduce your carbon footprint. The Vale Council provides information on local cycling routes and public transport options.

Tackling food waste by planning your meals, buying only what you need, and learning how to use up leftovers not only benefits the planet but your pocket. The ‘Love Food Hate Waste’ website (www.lovefoodhatewaste.com/) offers excellent tips and a portion calculator. Food-sharing apps like Olio can also help you share surplus food with neighbours. For food that you must dispose of, make sure you use the council’s weekly service.

Reducing energy waste at home by turning down your thermostat by just one degree lower, setting your timer on your thermostat for your heating to come on only when you need it and switching to LED bulbs can save you money and help the environment. Organisations such as Energy Saving Trust, an independent organisation working to address the climate emergency, provide useful advice.

Helping nature by volunteering with a conservation group. You can find out about groups in your area from the Vale Local Nature Partnership whose mission is to reconnect people with nature. They aim to help all members of society to take part in practical action for nature by providing training, organising events and offering resources to help wildlife.

A great project that provides help is their Nature Recording Starter Package and Habitat Creation Package. The packages are available for projects as long as they are on publicly accessible land, engage with the community and benefit biodiversity. Starter packs are available for hedgehogs, bats, birds, as well as orchard tools, meadows and pond creation.

These are my five eco-friendly resolutions. I’d love to hear yours.

Happy New Year.

The views expressed by columnists of this newspaper do not necessarily reflect the views of the Glamorgan Star, its employees or its proprietors.

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