Leeds: A place to live sustainably

A word on… sustainable living (and saving money) from the Sustainability Service.

It’s no secret that that we are facing a global climate crisis of epic proportions. Without further action, the damage being done to our planet will become irreversible. However, it’s not all doom and gloom! The good news is that it’s not yet too late to do something about it and you can be part of the solution.

When it comes to the climate crisis, it’s easy to think, “What can I do? I’m just one person.” The danger is that if everyone thinks this way then no action will be taken and the destruction of our planet becomes a very real prospect. We need to act. All of us. And we need to do it now.

We can all make small changes in our daily lives that collectively have a huge impact on the planet and the good news is that it takes very little effort. The even better news is that it can save you money too!

Here’s some tips on small changes to your daily routine that reduce your climate impact and save you money:

Save water

Use washing up bowls rather than washing up with the tap running.

• Use washing up bowls rather than washing up with the tap running.
• When using the dishwasher, stack it efficiently and use the eco setting.
• Turn off the taps when brushing your teeth.
• Install a ‘water hippo’ in your toilet cistern to save water.
• Try a shower timer or play a favourite song and get out when it ends.
• Report any leaks to your landlord and ensure that they get repaired.

For more tips visit Water Wise.

Save energy

Boil only the amount of water that is needed.

• Turn appliances off at the plug when they are not in use.
• Put on a jumper before you turn up the heating — a healthy room temperature is 18–20 oC.
• Check you have energy saving lightbulbs and turn lights off when they’re not needed.
• Boil only the amount of water that is needed.
• Wash your clothes on the cool or eco setting on the washing machine.
• Turn off the heating and hot water when no one is staying in the house.
• Dry clothes naturally rather than in a tumble dryer.
• Keep doors and windows closed to keep the heat inside (and reduce noise).
• Put lids on saucepans to help food cook faster.
• Cook in bulk. Check out our tips for batch cooking.

For more tips visit Energy Saving Trust.

Reduce food waste

Cook in bulk.

• Plan meals for the week ahead and only buy the ingredients you need.
• Freeze food nearing its use by date. You can freeze more than you might think!
• Use your leftovers. Get creative or find tips at Love Food Hate Waste.
• Use the Too Good to Go and Gander apps to ensure that food from local businesses doesn’t go to waste.

Reduce plastic use

Explore local shops that do not use single use plastic.

The University of Leeds, in partnership with Leeds University Union, is working to remove unnecessary single use plastic from its operations. Make your own contribution and explore local shops that do not use single-use plastic.

Some to try….

• Headingley Greengrocer, Headingley
• Ecotopia, Briggate — City Centre
• Panda Refill Shop, Kirkgate Market — City Centre
• The Refilling Station, Chapel Allerton
• Green Action Society Food Co-op, LUU building
• Leeds Refills, Hyde Park Corner
• Asda Sustainability Store, Middleton

See our blog for more options.

For more information on Sustainability at the University, see our other blogs or follow our instagram @uol_sus.