Everything we do makes a demand on nature: from the food we eat, to the clothes we buy, to the way we travel. Added together, the demands made by each and every one of us are far too much for our planet.
There are lots of simple changes that New Zealanders can make to help lower our ecological footprints. It all adds up. Small actions matter.
Here are a few everyday things you can do to make a difference:
Switch off lights and other electrical appliances when not in use.
Switch to LED lights.
Choose power providers that prioritise renewable energy.
Wash clothes in cold water and air dry instead of using the dryer.
Avoid single-use plastics.
Select products without any packaging or with biodegradable packaging.
Shop local.
Buy second-hand.
Ask “Do I really need this?” to reduce your consumption.
Use reusable bags, water bottles, and keep cups as often as possible.
Attend upcycling workshops (or conduct your own!) and learn how to give your old items a new chance at life.
Walk, cycle, carpool, use public transport, switch to an electric or hybrid vehicle.
Use our trip planner which guides you to better options for your and our planet’s health.
Reduce your meat and dairy consumption. Read why it matters.
Meal plan and only purchase what is necessary to minimise food wastage.
Compost your kitchen scraps and garden waste.
Create a worm farm (kids love them!)
Grow your own veggies and fruit.
Support small and local farmers and sustainably-sourced products.
Volunteer with a conservation organisation for beach clean-ups or tree plantings. Visit the Conservation Volunteers NZ site for local opportunities.
Plant local flora and attract native wildlife in your own backyard.
Support local initiatives that protect and restore nature.
Support WWF-NZ today to help protect and restore our ocean, the lands, waters, and native species of Aotearoa.
For more actions you can take, visit the Ministry for the Environment and Gen Less websites.