The Lazy Person’s Guide to Being More Eco-Friendly – Because Not Everyone Wants to Make Their Own Shampoo

Most of us like the idea of being more eco-friendly, but few of us are willing to start making our own toothpaste out of bicarbonate of soda and crushed regrets. Some people thrive on that sort of thing, but the rest of us just want to live our lives while doing just enough to feel smug at dinner parties.

So, if you want to save the planet without giving up all your creature comforts, here’s a no-nonsense, low-effort guide to being greener—without accidentally turning into someone who lectures their friends about plastic straws.

1. Save Energy by Doing Absolutely Nothing

Some people invest in fancy energy-efficient gadgets. Others just… do less. Guess which one we’re going for?

• Turn off the lights. It’s free, and if anyone complains, tell them it’s ‘ambience’.

• Unplug things when you’re not using them. Otherwise, your phone charger is quietly costing you

  money while doing literally nothing.

• Use the oven less. Let’s be honest—half of us use it for storage anyway.

Bonus: Doing less means lower bills. You’ll feel virtuous and have extra money for things you actually enjoy.

2. Stop Buying Tat (Yes, That Includes the Bargain Bin at the Supermarket)

We all love a good bargain, but buying endless cheap stuff that falls apart after two washes isn’t great for the planet or your wardrobe. Here’s an easier way:

• Wear the clothes you already own. That’s right—shopping in your own wardrobe. Revolutionary.

• When you do buy things, go for quality. A well-made jumper lasts years. A £5 one will disintegrate if you look at it too hard.

• Second-hand isn’t just for students and hoarders. It’s cheaper, better for the environment, and sometimes you find something decent instead of yet another moth-eaten cardigan.

3. Recycling: The Bare Minimum Approach

Recycling is great, but sometimes keeping up with the rules can feel like studying for an exam.

• Get a separate bin for recyclables. That way, you don’t have to think too hard about it.

• Check what your council actually recycles. Because let’s be real—half of us have just been guessing.

• Stop wishful recycling. No, greasy pizza boxes and old socks don’t magically become new again.

And if you’re unsure whether something is recyclable? Just Google it. Five seconds of effort to avoid ruining an entire recycling batch.

4. Food Waste: The Lazy Person’s Guide

Throwing away food isn’t just bad for the environment—it’s an insult to your own bank account. But don’t worry, this doesn’t require any meal-planning wizardry:

• Use your freezer. It’s not just for forgotten ice lollies and that one bag of peas you never finish.

• Ignore best-before dates. They’re suggestions, not strict orders.

• Make soup. If it’s looking a bit sad in the fridge, chuck it in a pot with some stock. Congratulations, you’ve ‘cooked’.

5. Effortless Reusable Swaps (That You’ll Barely Notice)

Some eco-friendly swaps can take more effort than they’re worth (Sorry but, yes, we’re looking at reusable cotton pads that never dry). Others? So easy you won’t even think about it:

• Reusable water bottle = No more spending £1.50 on a bottle of water when tap water is free.

• Tote bag = No more 5p charges and fewer plastic bags shoved in a drawer ‘just in case’.

• Keep cup = No more takeaway coffee guilt

None of these require any real effort. You just… remember to bring them with you.

6. Travel Greener (Without Selling Your Car and Buying a Bicycle You’ll Never Use)

Yes, cycling is great, but let’s be realistic—if you haven’t cycled since school, you’re probably not about to start now. Here’s what you can do:

• Walk when it’s a short distance. It’s free

• Use public transport where possible. No, it’s not perfect, but neither is sitting in traffic yelling at other drivers.

• If you drive, be efficient. Plan your trips so you don’t keep popping to the shop every five minutes.

None of this requires you to go full eco-warrior. Just be a bit less wasteful with fuel, and you’re already ahead.

7. Plants:

Because Even You Can’t Kill a Cactus

You don’t need to be a gardener to help the planet—just get something green and try not to kill it.

• A houseplant = free air purification and a vague sense of responsibility.

• Herbs on the windowsill = smugness when you throw fresh basil on your pasta.

• A slightly overgrown bit of garden = great for bees and other wildlife.

  (Also, a great excuse for not mowing the lawn.)

Minimal effort, but you can still feel like a responsible citizen.