As the cost of living crisis rolls on, millions of people are looking for ways to save money this winter and beyond.
In the face of rising bills, it may be tempting to cut corners and choose less environmentally sound options, but if you’re someone who cares about climate change and preserving resources, you know how important it is that everyone does their part.
So how can you keep your spending in check while reducing your eco-guilt? Here, experts offer their top tips for sustainable living on a shoestring.
Household bills
If you’re going out less and spending more time at home, it’s easy for power and water bills to creep up.
Philippa Grogan, sustainability consultant at Eco-Age says: “Turn off what you’re not using – don’t leave your TV on standby, turn lights off when leaving the room.”
To reduce water use, have showers instead of baths.
Laundry can also be water and energy intensive, Ms Grogan warns: “Avoid tumble drying, wash clothing on a lower heat and think twice if you really need to wash something – over-laundering is common in households and this leads to increased environmental and financial cost.”
Read: Eleven ways to save energy in the kitchen
Fashion
When it comes to sustainable fashion, all our experts agree that preloved is the way to go.
“I love shopping thrift and vintage,” says Laure Babin, founder and CEO of Zèta Shoes, which has partnered with Nespresso to produce the Re:ground collection of sneakers made using recycled coffee grounds. “Whenever I spot a piece I like, I search for similar secondhand.”
With so many preloved sites (Depop and Ebay are loved by style mavens), it’s easier than ever to shop secondhand online.
Poshmark is popular – you can find just about any style or brand on the easy-to-use app or website. For zero-cost clothing, try clothes swaps with friends they’re a great way to get a free wardrobe refresh.
Food
Cooking at home is usually cheaper than eating out (and definitely more sustainable than takeaways), but it’s important to plan properly to prevent waste.
“Check what you already have at home before you visit the supermarket to avoid buying duplicates which avoids both extra costs and food waste,” says Fin Cope, founder of ethical marketplace and lifestyle app GoEthical.
Read: Simple tips for reducing your food waste at home
“Lots of people are also reducing how much meat they eat because of the health and environmental benefits, but it’s a great idea for your wallet too. Swapping out chicken for potatoes in a curry is a great place to start.”
Ms Grogan suggests: “Shop near the end of the day so you can see what’s in the reduced section – you can freeze bargains if you don’t eat them straight away.”
Travel
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“With fuel prices at the highest level since the beginning of the pandemic, cutting down on how often you use the car can seriously save you some money,” says Mr Cope. “Ditch the car and walk or cycle to your destination or carpool with friends so you’re all travelling in one vehicle instead of multiple.”
Read: Qantas announces plan to reward sustainable frequent flyers
What have you done to trim the budget? Do you go to a fresh food market once a week? Do you have a leftovers day? Why not share your strategies in the comments section below?
– With PA
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