1. Choose biodegradable alternatives!
When it comes to household waste, what do you think gets thrown out more than anything? If you’re a new parent, two things will come to mind: nappies and baby wipes!
Did you know the average baby is estimated to go through 4,000 – 5,000 nappies (filling 130 bin bags) and as many as 15,500 disposable wipes in their early years?
Despite their obvious convenience, a lot of these products are made and packaged with synthetic plastics that will take up to centuries to fully decompose. And with wet wipes, there’s the added worry of people wrongfully flushing them down the drain – which is the leading case of sewer blockages.
Making the switch to eco-friendly disposable nappies and wet wipes that are biodegradable will go such a long way in reducing the environmental impact of your household waste.
2. Try Meat-Free Mondays!
It’s estimated that livestock production is responsible for 14.5% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions!
Shifting to a more plant-based diet really can help in the fight against climate change. In fact, one Oxford study even suggests that if everyone adopted a more plant-based diet, it would cut food-related carbon emissions by as much as 70%!
Not only that, but eating more vegetable-based meals will help lower your health risks from red meat or processed meat products like sausages.
You don’t have to go full-on veggie if you’re not comfortable! Why not start off small with Meat-Free Mondays every week in your home?
3. Curb air pollution by leaving the car at home!
A great way to get more exercise and fresh air with your little one.
Lowering the number of petrol or diesel car journeys you make goes a long way in reducing your carbon footprint.
It’s also healthier for the people around you. The World Health Organisation and UK Government recognise that air pollution is the largest environmental health risk we face today. Poor air quality causes heart and lung diseases, is linked to low birth weight and children’s lung development and may even contribute to mental health issues.
Next time you go out, why not try walking, scooting or cycling your way there? It’s something that will benefit the whole family. As parents, you’ll become less dependent on the car as you switch up your transport, and you’ll be introducing a world of stimulating new experiences to your baby, meeting new people and seeing new sights when they’d otherwise be restricted to the car seat!
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