Human beings are currently using up the earth’s resources faster than they can be regenerated.

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Currently, 1 million plastic bottles, which contribute towards pollution, are being bought each minute. In addition to this, approximately 8 million metric tonnes of plastic ends up in the ocean annually. According to research done by the World Health Organisation, more than 80 per cent of the world’s population are affected by air that is of a substandard quality.

Susan Steward, the marketing manager of Budget Insurance, urged people to help combat these issues.

“We can all find ways to cut down on waste and cut down on costs.”

To that end she makes the following suggestions:

1.Use less Plastic

As plastic is not biodegradable, it piles up in dumping sites. This plastic is then consumed by animals who die as a result.

Another way to cut down on plastic is to  reuse your shopping bags to reduce the amount of plastic you use.

2.Upgrade the geyser or make modifications to it

Another way to cut down on waste and save on costs is to get a solar-powered geyser to save up to 90 per cent of the hot-water electricity expenses of your household.

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Alternatively, you can install a timer on your older geyser model to prevent unnecessary electricity drainage.

3.Become water savvy

You can save on costs and reduce waste by researching and implementing methods used to conserve water.

4. Beware of devices on standby mode

Another way to save on costs and reduce waste is by unplugging electronics and appliances on standby mode. These devices can be responsible for 10 per cent of the electricity which you use.

5.Consider composting, upcycling and recycling

Composting can be used to dispose of organic waste.

Significantly, there are a number of recycling stations in South Africa for your convenience. There are also a number of collectors who can recycle your waste for a fee.

6.Develop creative ways to use old technology.

To prevent electronic devices and phone batteries from becoming toxic in dumping sites, look for charity shops which can buy and sell second hand goods. These businesses often have individuals who can fix these devices or dispose of them in an eco-friendly way.

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According to Steward it is important for people to implement some of these tips. “We are a worldwide community of 7.5 billion people. If each of us implements just a few of these tips into our everyday lives and think twice before carelessly throwing things away or using unnecessary power, we’d be doing our planet, and our pockets, a massive favor”.

Press release provided by budget insurance.