Sadly, our Changing Consumerism campaign week was cancelled due to COVID-19. But fear not, we’re hoping to run this event series as part of our annual ‘Big Green Week’ this autumn 2020 – stay tuned!

Despite not being able to run this, we’d like to share our key messages from the campaign as well as some top sustainability tips that are also useful for these uncertain times.

Here are the main campaign themes, why they’re important, and how you can take action!

Food 

We know it can be tempting to cram as much as you can into your trolley in these tricky times (especially if everyone else is!), but by taking only what you need – you will be helping others and reducing your carbon emissions.

This time is also the perfect time to try replacing meat with a trusty tin of lentils or chickpeas! Did you know that lentils are 200x less carbon-intensive to produce than beef?  Not only are they cheaper (50p for a can anyone?), but they will last longer in your cupboard too! Why not start with an easy lentil Bolognese?

Fashion

Globally, one rubbish truck of clothes is burned or sent to landfill per second. This is incredibly wasteful considering it takes 2,700 litres of water to make one cotton shirt, enough to meet the average person’s drinking needs for two-and-a-half years. We know with this extra time on your hands, and an ASOS shop may seem like a good distraction, but have you considered breathing new life in the clothes you already have? Why not give tie-dye a go? Learn how here!

Waste

More than 60% of all the plastic we use is ending up in landfill, incinerated – or worse, in our environment and oceans. By reducing our packaging use this will save resources further up the chain, as making new plastic requires oil, as fossil fuel.

However, did you know that farmers around the country have started veg box schemes at reduced rates to shift their extra stock? There’s no better time to support local businesses and reduce your packaging consumption! Check out Support Bristol Food to find your nearest farmer.

Pssst…we also have pasta AND rice in the zero waste section of The Students’ Union U Block Shop if you’re still living on or near campus!

Top tips:

• Consider using tinned beans/legumes instead of meat
• Have a go at re-designing your old clothes
• Support local farmers (get exact quantity to avoid food waste and save money)
• The Students’ Union zero waste shop on Frenchay Campus is still open and is cheaper or the same price as packaged options.

Stay safe everyone!

The Green Team