Sustainability in 2023

Greta Thunberg has been in the media quite a bit over the festive season, but we are not here to comment on her social media triumphs – we’re here to bring her advice to the forefront.

Let’s do as she asks and make 2023 the year we are more mindful of the planet. We can’t all make big changes – we’ll leave that for the world leaders to (hopefully) do – but we can all make small changes in our everyday lives that could really help.

Reduce plastic

Use the same shopping bag whenever you do the food shop. Have metal water bottles you can refill throughout the day. Look out for products that are packaged more sustainably – most large brands provide refill packs these days, which helps you reduce your plastic naturally. Use soaps and solid shampoo bars rather than plastic bottles of handsoap – they work just as well. 

Be water wise

This is a simple one – just turn off the tap unless you are using the water. Use a bowl in the sink to wash food, rather than run it under the tap. Keep a jug of water in the fridge. Don’t leave the tap running while you brush your teeth. Wait until you have a really full load before using the dishwasher or washing machine. They sound simple but you might do some of these things without realising! If you have the budget, consider installing a water butt – it’s a great way to re-use rainwater.

Reuse and recycle

Remember the days when all our domestic waste just got dumped in the one place? Most UK households now have four coloured bins, so we can easily recycle on a daily basis. Make it even easier by taking the time to read the packaging information on your purchases – and switch to those that provide sustainable packaging. Our tins and labels are all completely recyclable, for example. Our paint swatches are made from fully recycled paper squares that have been covered two coats of real paint – much better than buying miniature jars or tubes.  

Buy and sell or donate clothes 

Thrift stores, second hand shops and online marketplaces like Vinted and Ebay provide great places to buy and sell clothing. It’s a more responsible way to keep up with trends than using fast fashion retailers and provides cost-effective ways to recycle clothing that is of no use to you any more. Alternatively, donate your good quality clothes to those in need. Charities such as the British Heart Foundation and the Salvation Army collect from your home, or local shops and recycling centres provide a good space to donate or deposit.

Shop local – and use as few environmental toxins as possible

Again, this comes down to checking the labels when shopping. Our paints are all made here in the UK and despatched to order, so there’s no waste. They have been rated minimal (the lowest possible) VOC and have been given an A+rating for air emissions. By taking the time to buy products made in your area or country where possible, and checking the ingredients, you can make a difference.

These are all small changes, easy to make, and many of us are doing them anyway. But by making small changes to our everyday habits, we can all contribute to a more sustainable way of living - which could have a big impact in the long run. Let’s make 2023 the year these changes become the norm.