Living An Eco Lifestyle & Easy Vegan Recipes

Do you have a green thumb and a love of wildlife? Are you looking for an exciting DIY project that's both rewarding and enjoyable? If so, building your own garden pond could be the perfect solution! In this post, we'll show you how to build a garden pond including a step-by-step guide to constructing a beautiful oasis, that provides not only hours of entertainment but offers numerous ecological benefits too. From attracting local bird species to creating an inviting habitat for amphibians like frogs and newts, discover why making your own garden pond is much more than just pretty scenery. Tools & Equipment Needed To Build A Pond Creating a garden pond can be a rewarding adventure that will bring joy to you, your family and the local wildlife for years to come. To ensure success, there are certain tools and equipment needed. Below is a list of essential items you should have on hand before starting the task. Shovel Tape measure Level Wheelbarrow or Bags Spray paint or Stakes & String Garden hose Pebbles Rocks Water plants Pond liner Pond pump Pond filter Fish Netting (if you are keeping fish) So let's start building that pond! Time needed: 1 day. Building a garden pond isn't as hard as it may seem – with patience and dedication, anyone can construct their own back garden oasis. Below are all the steps involved in building a beautiful garden pond that provides an ideal habitat for local wildlife. Location of Pond Decide on the size and location of your pond. You'll want to take into account the size of your garden and how much space it will take up, and also the amount of sun or shade the area gets, and any existing landscaping features. Once you've decided on the perfect spot, mark out the perimeter with spray paint or stakes and string. Digging The Hole Excavate the area within the perimeter. You'll want to dig down about 12 inches (30 cm). You'll need to find another place to put the soil or bag it up. If you're planning on having fish in your pond, make sure to dig out an extra 6 inches (15 cm) so they will have enough room to swim. You can also add a deeper hole in the middle so fish or tadpoles can hide from predators. Adding A Pond Liner Line the hole with a heavy-duty pond liner. Make sure that the liner extends up the sides of the hole and over the edge by at least 1 foot. Be sure to smooth out any wrinkles or creases. Weigh Down The Pond Edge Add soil and rocks around the edge of the pond to create a natural look. Be sure to leave some small gaps so that wildlife will have access to the water. Gently tamp down the material as you go to avoid damaging the liner and try to avoid anything spilling into the pond. Adding water Add water via a hose until it reaches about 6 inches (15 cm) from the top of the liner. This will allow you to make any adjustments before adding more water. Add A Pump & Filtration System Install a pump and filtration system according to the manufacturer's instructions. These are necessary if you want to keep your pond clean and clear. You do not need a water pump or filtration system if you would like a pond just for the wildlife, but if you don't, the pond will need to be cleaned from time to time. Add Water Plants, Pebbles & Decorations Add plants around the pond and in the water also decorations like a waterfall or large pebbles on one side in the water as desired. Be sure to research which plants are best suited for ponds, waterlily is very popular. Adding pebbles will allow small animals to drink from the pond. Your new pond is finished, Well Done!!! Planning To Keep Fish In Your New Garden Pond? You should consider using a pond netting kit to cover your garden pond. This will help keep debris and leaves out of the pond, as well as provide shelter for fish and other small creatures living in the water. Netting is an effective barrier against predators that may want to eat the fish or other wildlife in your pond. The material used for pond nets is typically nylon as it's lightweight yet stron...

If you want to bring some of nature's beauty into your garden, encouraging wildlife is a great way to do it! By providing food, water, and shelter, you can entice all sorts of creatures to visit. Here are a few tips on how to get started. Benefits of encouraging wildlife into your garden? Did you know that encouraging wildlife into your garden can have many positive benefits? Not only will it make your garden look vibrant and attractive, but it can also provide food, shelter and a habitat for visiting wildlife. By planting native vegetation, providing a water source, and by limiting the use of chemicals such as pesticides or fertilizers, you can create an inviting environment for birds, mammals and insects alike. These animals in turn will bring life to your space through their activities – from hunting for prey to building nests – leading to healthier soil and more diversity of plants. Encouraging wildlife into your garden is also beneficial to our local ecosystems since these animals help disperse pollen from one plant to another, improving pollination success. In addition, they help with pest control by keeping insect numbers down. Lastly, having wildlife around adds a special connection between you and nature that can be incredibly rewarding! Add a Water Feature When it comes to your garden, consider making a water feature – even just a simple birdbath – to give the wildlife a place to quench their thirst. Not only does providing water for animals help them survive but it gives them an opportunity to spend more time in our gardens, making them the perfect oasis for wildlife. Adding a birdbath or building a small pond will not only add character and interest to your garden, but it could also help birds, frogs, badgers and other creatures find a safe spot near you. So why not take the plunge and try out something new with a DIY water feature? Plant native plants and flowers Planting native plants and flowers is an excellent method of encouraging wildlife into your garden. Not only are they easy to take care of, but they also provide a plethora of benefits – both for the wildlife and your garden! The nectar they produce feeds hummingbirds, honey bees, and other insects while the foliage can provide shelter for small animals like birds, frogs, toads, and hedgehogs. You'll be able to watch all the wonderful creatures that have decided to call your outdoor space home while enjoying all the beauty of blooming native plant life! Create a compost heap Creating a compost heap in your garden is an easy, cost-effective way to encourage wildlife. Compost heaps are attractive to all kinds of insects, from beetles and bees to spiders and worms. These additions will help create a balanced ecosystem in your garden that encourages all kinds of wildlife, including birds and small mammals who will come for the abundance of food these insects bring. Not only that, but when you use the compost it fills your garden with rich nutrients that are essential for your plants. Creating a compost heap is rewarding not just for the fauna it attracts but also for the flora it helps sustain. Leave some areas of your garden wild Adding a few wild areas to your garden can make a world of difference for local wildlife. Leaving some patches of long grass, stacks of leaves, and piles of logs can provide shelter for small critters like frogs, insects, hedgehogs and birds. Plus, these untamed parts of your plot will also add texture and depth to the overall beauty of your green space! So don't be afraid to let nature take its course – adding a few features here or there will create an eco-friendly environment that's fun for everyone. Be patient! It may take some time for wildlife to find your garden, but eventually they will if you create the right environment for them. As tempting as it may be, don't give up! You cannot rush Mother Nature, and creating a wildlife-friendly garden takes time. Be patient and believe that the hard work will eventually pay off – l...

Living off the grid can be incredibly freeing for those who feel strongly about being self-sufficient and independent from modern systems; however, it does come with its disadvantages as well. From limited access to healthcare and medical supplies to difficult communication due to lack of reception and internet connection, living off the grid has its downsides and is no easy feat. 10 Disadvantages To Living Off The Grid The initial setup costs One of the major disadvantages of living off the grid is the initial setup costs. For those considering making the move to an off-grid lifestyle, they need to be prepared for potential large investments in permits, building a home, solar panels, wind turbines, batteries, and any other necessary components to generate power and lead a sustainable life. Additionally, these components need to be properly installed in order to work effectively and safely. As such, these costs can add up quickly and be a major barrier to taking up an off-grid lifestyle. Access to healthcare and medical supplies In most remote areas, there are no nearby doctors, hospitals, or pharmacies that can offer specialized treatments or medications needed for certain illnesses and conditions. Even if you do find a local health centre nearby, the quality of care may not be up to standards due to a lack of funding and resources. This lack of access and quality care can have serious repercussions on one's physical and mental health in the long run. Staying connected with family and friends Living off the grid also makes it difficult to stay connected with family and friends. While technology has made staying in touch easier than ever, living off the grid often means limited access to broadband internet, mobile cellular service, and other forms of communication. This can make it difficult to maintain close relationships with distant loved ones or take part in activities that involve connecting to others via digital or virtual platforms. For those who value having access to these types of connection and communication, this can be a major drawback of choosing a life off the grid. Higher costs items Another downside of living off the grid is potentially higher costs for everyday items due to shipping and transportation fees. Off-grid living often involves relying on delivery services, and other forms of transportation to obtain goods, such as groceries and household supplies. This can lead to higher costs for basic necessities that are more readily available in urban areas. Additionally, it can also be difficult to source more speciality items due to the limited availability of certain products in rural locations. Vulnerability Also, natural disasters, extreme weather, and other uncontrollable circumstances can be a problem. In rural areas that are not connected to the grid, loss of power due to severe weather or other causes can be especially challenging. Without a reliable source of electricity, it can be difficult to power everyday devices such as lights and appliances. Those living off-grid are also at greater risk during times of war or civil unrest if they are located in an area affected by conflict. It is important for those considering off-grid living to take into account any vulnerability risks associated with their location before making the move. Lack of waste management & energy sources Limit access to public services such as waste management, water supply and energy sources. Without access to a utility provider, individuals living off-grid must find alternative ways to manage their resources. This can include finding viable water sources, generating power on their own and disposing of their waste efficiently. Job opportunities in remote areas You may find it difficult to secure employment due to limited access to job opportunities in more remote areas. Those seeking work could often travel long distances in order to reach an area where jobs are available. Furthermore, without reliable means of transportation or...

Living off the grid and harvesting rainwater is becoming an increasingly popular solution for reducing energy costs and achieving greater sustainability. Rainwater harvesting systems allow you to collect and use rainfall in an efficient way, helping to reduce water bills while also providing a reliable source of water for household and garden needs. From constructing rain barrels to installing water tanks and filters, these systems can be tailored to fit any size property or budget. In this article, we explore the various types of rainwater harvesting systems available and discuss how they can help you live off the grid with greater independence. Benefits of Rainwater Harvesting Systems There are many benefits associated with having a well maintained rainwater harvesting system on your property: Reduce Water Bills By collecting rainfall in your own tanks instead of relying solely on municipal supplies you can save money by reducing future water bills; Improve Water Quality By filtering captured rainfall through various filters such as activated charcoal or sand beds you can improve both taste and purity levels; Reduce Wastefulness By using harvested rainwater efficiently you reduce wasteful behaviour by conserving resources; Decrease Environmental Impact: By avoiding municipal supplies altogether you decrease reliance on industrial sources which can often be damaging to surrounding environments; Increase Plant Health Harvested rainfall contains essential minerals like nitrogen that helps keep plants healthy as opposed to cold tap water which lacks these nutrients; Ecofriendly Alternative: Using collected rainfall instead of harvests from rivers or lakes is an ecologically friendly approach that reduces stress on natural ecosystems; Can I Drink Water From a Rainwater Harvesting System? Yes, you can drink water from a rainwater harvesting system. To ensure the highest quality and safety of the water, it is important to install filtration or purification systems as part of your collection system so that it meets drinking water standards. Additionally, regular maintenance of the system and its components is essential for ensuring that any stored water remains safe for consumption. What Can I Use Harvested Rainwater For? Rainwater can be used for a variety of purposes, depending on the quality of the water and the collection system. Typical uses include watering gardens or lawns, flushing toilets, irrigating crops, washing clothes and dishes, car washing, filling ponds and swimming pools, supplementing drinking water supplies (after proper filtration), and firefighting. How Much Do Rainwater Harvesting Systems Cost? The cost of a rainwater harvesting system can vary greatly depending on the size and complexity of the system. Factors such as materials, labour costs, permits (if needed) and other infrastructure needed to install the system can also influence the final cost. Generally speaking, for residential applications, a basic rainwater collection system can range from a few hundred to thousands for more complex systems. Investigating Your Local Regulations Before building or implementing any rainwater harvesting system, it's important to investigate what regulations you need to follow in your area. Every country and state has different laws regarding rainwater collection, so make sure you understand these rules before you get started. It's also important to check if there are any water quality standards related to rainwater storage tanks or other elements of the system, as these can vary from location to location. Placement Considerations When selecting your rainwater harvesting system, consider how much water you'll need and where it will be coming from. You should also look at surface runoff – areas that collect water when it rains – and decide whether they're suitable for off-grid homes or not. Additionally, consider where all the components of your harvesting system will fit in your home or garden, and make sure there is ...

Carbon footprint is the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) that an individual, business, or other entity produces. It's measured in units of CO2 released into the atmosphere due to activities such as burning fossil fuels, manufacturing products, transporting goods, and other activities that involve releasing carbon dioxide into the environment. Now more than ever before, understanding your carbon footprint is essential for anyone who wants to make a positive impact on our planet. The Impact of Carbon Emissions on Climate Change Carbon emissions have been linked to global warming for decades now. As more carbon pollution enters our atmosphere, the planet's temperature rises and leads to extreme weather events such as heatwaves, floods, droughts, hurricanes, etc. These events can cause destruction to property and put people's lives at risk. Additionally, as temperatures rise in certain areas of the world due to climate change, sea levels will also rise creating further destruction in coastal regions. These effects are not just limited to humans; animals and plants' habitats will be affected as well leading to their eventual extinction in some cases. What Does Your Carbon Footprint Include? Your personal carbon footprint is made up of all of the emissions associated with your lifestyle choices. This includes things like driving a car, flying on an aeroplane, heating and cooling your home, and even eating certain foods. The larger your carbon footprint is, the more you are contributing to climate change. Reducing your personal carbon footprint can have a real impact on reducing global warming and its associated effects. How Carbon Footprint Is Measured? There are a few ways to measure your carbon footprint. The most common way is to look at your energy use. This includes everything from the electricity you use at home to the gas you put in your car. You can also look at the amount of waste you produce, as well as the amount of water you use. These are all things that require energy to maintain, so they all contribute to your carbon footprint. Additionally, you can consider the impact of your consumption habits. For example, if you eat a lot of meat, that has a larger carbon footprint than if you were a vegetarian or more so if you were a vegan. The important thing is to be aware of the things that contribute to your carbon footprint and make conscious choices to try to reduce it. What Can You Do To Reduce Your Carbon Footprint? There are many ways you can reduce your carbon footprint such as switching over to renewable energy sources like solar power instead of relying on electricity generated through burning fossil fuels like coal or natural gas. Additionally, reducing your consumption of animal products can help since livestock production generates significant GHG emissions into the atmosphere when farmers burn grasslands for grazing land or produce methane-generating manure lagoons. Finally, reducing waste by recycling or reusing items whenever possible will also help reduce your overall carbon footprint. Here are a few simple things you can do to make a difference: Drive less. If possible, walk, ride a bike, or take public transportation instead of using your car. You'll save money on gas and reduce your emissions at the same time. Recycle and compost. By recycling paper, plastic, and glass, you can reduce the amount of waste that goes into landfills. And composting your food scraps and yard waste helps keep methane out of the atmosphere. Cut back on energy consumption. conserving energy not only reduces your carbon footprint but also saves you money on your utility bills. Some easy ways to conserve energy include turning off lights when you leave a room and setting your thermostat a few degrees lower in the winter. As above you can lower your energy costs and increase the energy efficiency of your home with the aid of a smart thermostat. This gadget picks up on your routines and preferences, such as when you often arrive home ...

For those who are looking for a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to traditional toilet paper, bamboo toilet paper is an excellent choice. Today we will learn some facts about bamboo toilet paper. Here's what you need to know about bamboo toilet paper. Bamboo is a highly renewable resource, as it grows quickly and does not require fertilizer or pesticides to thrive. It also requires very little water, making it an ideal choice for areas where water is scarce. Additionally, bamboo releases more oxygen into the atmosphere than other plants, making it a great option for those looking to reduce their carbon footprint. Benefits of Bamboo Toilet Paper Bamboo toilet paper offers several advantages over traditional toilet paper. For one thing, it's softer and more plush than regular toilet paper, providing a luxurious experience that most people enjoy. Additionally, it's hypoallergenic and biodegradable, meaning that it won't irritate your skin or pollute the environment when disposed of properly. Finally, because bamboo is so absorbent, you don't need to use as much toilet paper each time you go—which can help save money in the long run! How is bamboo toilet paper made? Bamboo toilet paper is made from the pulp of bamboo plants. The bamboo is chopped into small pieces and then soaked in water for several hours. This breaks down the cellulose fibres and makes them easier to work with. Next, the bamboo pulp is placed in a machine that uses high pressure and steam to form it into sheets of paper. Once the paper is dry, it is cut into rolls and packaged for sale. Because bamboo plants grow quickly and don't require pesticides or fertilizers to thrive, bamboo toilet paper is a more sustainable option than traditional toilet paper made from trees. Sustainability Of Bamboo Toilet Paper Bamboo grows rapidly, with some species capable of growing up to a metre in just one day! It also requires much less water and fertilizer than trees do in order to grow, making it an ideal source material for sustainable products. Unlike traditional tree-based toilet papers, bamboo toilet papers are made from 100% renewable resources. In addition, they can be recycled or composted instead of ending up in landfills. Another plus point is that bamboo is naturally antibacterial and antifungal, which makes it less likely to cause irritation or allergies. Is bamboo toilet paper septic tank safe? There is much debate surrounding the use of bamboo toilet paper and its impact on septic tanks. Some experts argue that bamboo toilet paper is perfectly safe for septic tanks, as it will quickly decompose and does not contain any harmful chemicals. However, others argue that the long, fibrous nature of bamboo toilet paper can cause clogs in septic tanks, particularly if the system is not well maintained. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to use bamboo toilet paper in a septic tank system is a personal one. Those who are concerned about potential clogs may want to stick with traditional toilet paper, while those who are more worried about the environmental impact of their choices may opt for bamboo toilet paper. Whichever route you choose, be sure to consult with a professional before making any changes to your septic tank system. Is bamboo toilet paper good for sensitive skin? When it comes to toilet paper, there are a lot of options on the market. But what about sensitive skin? Is bamboo toilet paper a good option for those with sensitive skin? As it turns out, bamboo toilet paper can be a great option for those with sensitive skin. Bamboo is naturally soft and gentle, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin. In addition, bamboo toilet paper is usually hypoallergenic and free of chemicals, fragrances, and dyes, which can further irritate sensitive skin. So if you're looking for toilet paper that is gentle on your skin, bamboo toilet paper is definitely worth considering. is bamboo toilet paper soft? Bamboo toilet paper is a popular choice for th...

Natural mosquito repellant is used to fight off mosquitoes & can be made from plants or other natural sources. Some popular natural bug repellents include lemon eucalyptus, citronella, and lavender. Natural mosquito repellents are generally preferred over chemical ones because they may include dangerous components. Making Natural Mosquito Repellent Yourself Making your mosquito repellent out of natural ingredients is easy. Almost every kitchen has the components needed to make mosquito repellant. The most popular and effective essential oils are Citronella, lemon eucalyptus, lavender, and peppermint. These oils can be used in an air diffused or applied directly to you skin. A natural pesticide called pyrethrin is extracted from chrysanthemum blooms. This is effective against mosquitoes and other flying insects. Ingredients for Natural Mosquito Repellent A mosquito repellent may be made from a variety of common substances. The oils all include natural ingredients that deter mosquitoes. The most prevalent ingredient in bug sprays is citronella oil, which is also used to ward off mosquitoes. The lemon grass plant is the source of this fragrant ingredient. Mosquitoes and other pest insects may be driven away with citronella oil. Like many other oils, lemongrass oil is extracted from the lemon grass plant. It works well to keep mosquitoes away because of its strong lemon aroma that mosquitoes dislike. The leaves and branches of the eucalyptus tree are used to produce aromatic oil. Because of its camphoraceous solid aroma, it serves as an efficient insect repellent. Cloves are pressed to extract oil. This powerful, spicy aroma has a practical purpose: keeping insects at bay. A mosquito repellent may also be made using lavender. It has a sweet flowery aroma and may be equally effective as other insect repellents. Oil extracted from the rosemary plant has a powerful herbaceous aroma and serves as a good insect deterrent. It's possible to make a homemade mosquito repellent by combining a number of these substances. Be careful to test the repellent on a tiny patch of skin before applying it to a wide area, no matter which formula you choose. This will help determine if any substances are causing an adverse reaction. Benefits of Natural Mosquito Repellent The use of insect repellents made from natural ingredients has several advantages. The following are some of the most important benefits: Natural mosquito repellents tend to be far more benign than their chemical equivalents. This is because they do not have any potentially dangerous chemicals or poisons. Also, unlike chemical repellents, natural mosquito repellents do not cause harm to humans or animals. This is because mosquitoes are drawn to synthetic odours more than natural ones. Chemical mosquito repellents aren't the only option. However, natural insect repellents are often more comfortable to use. As a bonus, they seldom irritate the skin and usually have a more pleasing aroma. It is possible to apply natural mosquito repellents on both skin and clothes. In most cases, natural mosquito repellents may save you money compared to conventional options. This is because they are made using cheap materials and some you may already have at home. Compared to chemical repellents, natural insect repellents are safer for the environment. This is because they are free of potentially harmful & polluting chemicals. 10 Best Natural Mosquito Repellent On the market nowadays, one may choose from a wide variety of mosquito repellents that are made from natural ingredients. Here are some of the most impressive: Citronella oil: One of the most well-known natural mosquito repellents, Citronella grass oil is extracted from the leaves of the Citronella plant. The strong citrus aroma of this product is an effective insect deterrent. Peppermint oil: The oil has a strong scent similar to mint, which serves to deter insects. Eucalyptus oil: This essential oil has a robust aroma reminiscent of the forest...

This simple vegan couscous salad recipe is easy to make. Couscous is low in fat & is a good source of fibre with other health benefits. Couscous is a moroccan cuisine but also a very popular dish with the surrounding countries. This vegan couscous salad doesn't only taste amazing its also very healthy for you so great if you are on a diet. Vegan Couscous Salad An easy to make vegan couscous salad, this simple vegan salad is made with kale, but if kale is not your preferred taste then you can swap it over for rocket or spinach. This couscous salad is perfect for a light lunch. 5 from 1 vote Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 5 mins Course Salad Cuisine Mediterranean Servings 2 Calories 246 kcal Equipment Small bowl Salad bowl Small jar Whisk Ingredients ⅓ cup whole wheat couscous ¾ cup vegetable broth or water ½ red onion diced 2 to matoes roughly chopped ¼ cup sundried tomatoes chopped ¼ cup marinated artichoke hearts chopped 2 cups kale chopped ¼ cup fresh parsley chopped For the dressing 1 clove garlic minced ¼ cup balsamic vinegar ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil 2 tsp dijon mustard 1 tbsp maple syrup ½ tsp sea salt Cracked black pepper to taste Instructions Heat up the water or vegetable broth. Add the couscous and cover it with a lid. This should allow the couscous to soak up the liquid and cook. Set it aside to cool down. To make the dressing, simply whisk all the dressing ingredients in a jar. Once the couscous has cooled down, add it to the salad bowl, along with the veggies and greens. Drizzle the dressing over the contents, and mix everything together. Notes If you find fresh kale rough in texture, you can steam or microwave it for 1-2 minutes. Alternatively, try this vegan couscous salad with spinach or rocket. Nutrition Calories: 246kcalCarbohydrates: 36gProtein: 6gFat: 9g Keyword Couscous, Salad, Vegan Tried this recipe?See More Vegan & Vegetarian Recipes – Totally Yummy!

If you fancy a quick but tasty vegan breakfast, then give this vegan waffles recipe a try, simple to make with only 7 ingredients. You will need a waffle maker but once you have ones of these then you can make waffles in no time. Waffles originated from Belgium but quickly became very popular worldwide, none more so than in America. Are Vegan Waffles Healthy? Normally waffles would not be considered healthy, this is mainly because they are made with plain floor, milk & lots of sugar. However, vegan waffles are conciderably more healthy than non vegan waffles. The reason for this is vegan waffles are made with plain flour but also with wholemeal flour as a 50/50 mix, they also are not made with cow's milk nor sugar, as a sweetener we use maple syrup in this recipe. Quick & Easy Vegan Waffles You are going to love these vegan waffles, you can make them in less than 15 minutes and they taste amazing. These waffles makes a tasty breakfast or a quick snack when peckish. 5 from 1 vote Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 10 mins Course Breakfast Cuisine Belgium Servings 2 Calories 262 kcal Equipment Mixing Bowl Whisk Waffle maker Ingredients ¼ cup plain flour ¼ cup wholemeal flour ½ tsp baking powder ⅛ tsp salt ¾ cup vegan yoghurt 1 tbsp maple syrup 1 tsp vanilla extract Instructions Start by mixing the dry ingredients together: flour, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add the vegan yoghurt, whisking it with the dry ingredients as you go. Add maple syrup and vanilla, and make sure they are incorporated into the batter. Preheat the waffle iron and spray it with cooking spray or brush it with oil. Fill and close the waffle maker. Cook for 5-10 minutes, until the waffles have risen and browned. Notes The amount of batter and cooking time will depend on your waffle maker. Be careful not to overfill the slots, as the batter will expand and fill the gaps. You can enjoy these waffles with your toppings of choice: jam, syrup, frozen berries, or fruit. It's possible to make these vegan waffles gluten-free if you use all-purpose gluten-free flour and oat flour instead of the wheat flour. Nutrition Calories: 262kcalCarbohydrates: 37gProtein: 6gFat: 10g Keyword Breakfast, Vegan, Waffles Tried this recipe?See More Vegan & Vegetarian Recipes – Totally Yummy!

This is one of my favourite dishes, not only is this vegan chow mein easy to make it's also packed with flavour. Is Vegan Chow Mein Healthy? Most people would consider regular chow mein unhealthy, however this vegan chow mein recipe is packed full of vegetables & root vegetables, like ginger, shallots & garlic & if you use a light oil then it's low in calories and high in nutrients. So yes we think this vegan chow mein recipes is much healthy than normal chow mein. Give this oriental recipe a try, you will not be disappointed. Vegan Chow Mein You can not beat a freshly made bowl of chow mein & even better this recipe is suitable for vegans. Easy to prepare and quick to cook, you could be sitting down having a bowl of vegan chow mein in just 30 minutes. 5 from 1 vote Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 20 mins Course Lunch, Main Course Cuisine Chinese, Oriental Servings 2 Calories 255 kcal Equipment Wok or large frying pan Medium bowl Tongs or spatula to stir Ingredients 2-4 tbsp sesame oil 1 small aubergine chopped 1 shallot sliced 4 cloves garlic minced 1 inch ginger root peeled, minced 1 red hot chilli pepper seeds removed, chopped 1 red pepper seeds removed, chopped 2 cups bean sprouts 6 oz cooked chow mein noodles 4 stalks green onion chopped For the sauce: ¼ cup tamari soy sauce ¼ cup carrot juice Juice of 1 lime Zest of ½ lime Black sesame seeds Instructions Add aubergine pieces into a bowl and sprinkle with a generous amount of salt. Allow it to sit for 5-10 minutes. This will draw out the moisture. Rinse the salt and aubergine liquid off, and pat the pieces dry with a paper towel. Heat the sesame oil in a wok or a large frying pan. Add aubergine pieces and cook on high heat for 7-10 minutes until browned. Add shallots, garlic, ginger, and chilli. Saute everything together for about 5 minutes. Finally, add red pepper, beansprouts and noodles. Mix them with the rest of the ingredients. Then, add soy sauce, carrot juice, lime juice, and lime zest. Keep cooking for another 5 minutes or so. Finally, stir in the green onions. Sprinkle with black sesame seeds and enjoy. Notes If you're allergic to sesame, use a different cooking oil and omit sesame seeds from this recipe. For a gluten-free version of this recipe, make sure to use tamari sauce as it does not contain gluten. For the noodles, use rice or pea noodles. Nutrition Calories: 255kcalProtein: 22gFat: 38g Keyword Chinese, Chow, Mein, Vegan Tried this recipe?See More Vegan & Vegetarian Recipes – Totally Yummy!

This dairy free zesty homemade lemon cheesecake recipe, will enliven your tastebuds, and is a great pallet cleanser after a meal. This is a quick and easy recipe to make but does require a little bit of preparation. You will need to soak the cashews overnight to soften them. Once the cashews have softened, you are ready to go, you will be able to make this very quickly, but you must remember to allow 1-2 hours for the cheesecake to set. This lemon cheesecake, is delcious, and will be a hit with friends and family. Why soak the cashews nuts? The raw cashews need softening so they can be made into a paste, we recommend doing this overnight so the cashews are soft when you're ready to start making the recipe. Tasty Vegan Lemon Cheesecake Recipe Everyone loves desserts and you can not beat a cheesecake, try making this tasty lemon cheesecake at home & best of all it's vegan. 4.67 from 3 votes Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 15 mins Soak Time 6 hrs Course Dessert Cuisine Greek Servings 12 Calories 546 kcal Equipment Food processor Mixing Bowl Spring cake tin Baking Parchment Non-stick saucepan Ingredients For the crust 4 Oz plain crackers or biscuits broken up 4-6 dates pitted ½ cup walnuts 2 tbsp coconut oil melted For the cheesecake 1 ⅓ cup raw cashews soaked for 4-6 hours or overnight ¾ cup water 3 tbsp maple syrup or agave 2 tbsp coconut oil 1 tbsp agar agar powder 1 tsp vanilla extract Juice of 1 lemon Zest of 1 lemon Instructions Preheat the oven to 200 C (375 F). Line the bottom of the spring tin with parchment. In a food processor, blitz walnuts, dates, and biscuits or crackers until the mixture turns into fine crumbs. Transfer the mixture to a mixing bowl and add melted coconut oil. Stir everything together with a spatula. The mixture should be sticking together. Transfer to the lined cake tin and spread evenly across the bottom. Bake in the preheated oven for 7-10 minutes until golden brown. Drain the liquid from soaked cashews and add them to the food processor. Blend with clean water, maple syrup or agave, coconut oil, vanilla extract, lemon juice, and agar agar until smooth. Scrape down the sides of the food processor as you go, to make sure everything gets evenly incorporated. Transfer the cashew mixture to a saucepan over low medium heat. As it heats, stir it continuously with a spatula as it begins to thicken. Carefully fold in half of the lemon zest. Once it has thickened a little bit, transfer the “cheesecake” mixture into the cake tin, spreading it evenly across the crust. Allow the cheesecake to fully cool down, then move it to the fridge to set for 1-2 hours. Before serving, sprinkle with remaining lemon zest and icing sugar (optional). Enjoy! Notes For a gluten-free version of this recipe, use gluten-free biscuits or crackers. To store, refrigerate the cheesecake for up to 5 days. This dessert can also be wrapped and frozen. Nutrition Calories: 546kcal Keyword Cheesecake, Lemon, Vegan Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Many of us love sunny summer days, but as temperatures keep rising around the world, our weather is getting hotter and hotter. And UK heatwaves are an example of this. Heatwaves not only ruin our days, but extremely hot weather can even be fatal! That's why we should learn how to keep cool and stay safe in extreme heat. Since heatwaves will become more frequent and intense, it's important to know the risks of hot weather and ensure our safety. In today's article, we'll teach you the risks of heatwaves, signs of heat-related illness, how to stay cool indoors, tips to stay safe in the sun, and more! So, let's dive right in! What's a Heatwave? A heatwave is an uninterrupted period of exceptionally high temperatures. But what makes a heatwave different from any other hot day? The answer is simple: The temperature needs to be above the average conditions in a certain area at that time of the year. So, as you're probably guessing, heatwave temperature thresholds can vary from one place to another. Additionally, this period of extreme daily temperatures should last at least three consecutive days to be considered a heatwave. Now that you know what a heatwave is, let's check how climate change influences this weather-related extreme event and a few tips to stay safe. Are Heatwaves more Intense because of Climate Change? It's time to hear the experts and prepare for extreme heat. Climate change will make weather-related extreme events more common, including heatwaves. Over the past few decades, climate scientists have warned that extremely hot weather will become more intense and frequent. For that reason, knowing how to stay cool and safe in a heatwave is more urgent today than ever before. Extreme temperatures have defied expectations and are occurring faster than climate models had suggested in the past! According to the scientific journal Nature, a climate-modelling study (published two years ago) suggested that the United Kingdom could pass 40 ºC in the coming decades. And yet, the UK reached this record-breaking temperature in 2022, way sooner than expected! To learn how to stay safe and cool during a heatwave, you need to understand how extreme temperatures can affect your health. So, keep reading to discover the signs of heat-related illness and who is at risk of complications. How Can Extreme Heat Affect Your Body? Extreme heat can dehydrate you and warm up your core temperature, so make sure to stay safe and keep cool during a heatwave. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can increase your heart rate and increase sweating. When this happens, your body is unable to regulate its temperature and can cause illness, including heat cramps, sunburn, and other serious health conditions, like the ones mentioned below. Heat-related Illnesses You Should Prevent to Stay Safe Heat Exhaustion: This happens when your body loses a lot of water and salt. Although heat exhaustion is usually not dangerous, it can lead to heatstroke, a life-threatening condition. That's why it's so important to stay cool during a heatwave. Heatstroke: This condition occurs when your body temperature goes above 40 ºC and you're unable to cool down through sweating. In the worst-case scenario, a heatstroke can lead to long-term organ damage or death. Later in this article, we'll mention the common symptoms of heat-related illnesses, how to stay safe and cool during hot days to prevent these medical conditions, and what you should do if someone you know has signs of heat exhaustion or heatstroke. Who is at Risk during a Heatwave? Heatwaves can affect anyone, so everyone should learn how to stay cool and safe in extreme heat. That said, some people are more susceptible to extreme temperatures than others. The most vulnerable people to heat-related illnesses are: Older people, especially those over 75. Babies and young children. Pregnant people. People with serious chronic conditions, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and kidney dise...

Shopping for secondhand clothes can be daunting. When you first step over the threshold into a charity shop or a vintage store you're presented with a kaleidoscope of colours. There are racks of one-of-a-kind items from all sorts of different brands. For preloved fashion converts, this is heaven. It breaks the monotony of those shiny floored shopping centres. But for those new to second-hand fashion, it can be difficult to know where to begin. Shop with a purpose Go in with a mission. Think about what kind of garments you are missing from your wardrobe. You might focus on textures or colours. It can be super distracting to walk into any kind of shop because there is often so much choice. Some secondhand clothes shops sort their rails by colour since there may be only one of each item. So that might be really handy if you're looking for a red top. But you might have to search through a sea of red to find it. Stay on track by reminding yourself why you came into the shop in the first place. If you already have far too many tops, then don't get distracted and focus on the gaps in the wardrobe that you want to address. Keep an open mind Sounds counterintuitive right? As much as you need to come into a second-hand shop with a purpose, you still need to keep an open mind. Even if you know you absolutely need to find a new-to-you coat for winter, you still need to be open to trying styles, labels or cuts you might not usually go for. Part of the joy of rummaging through preloved clothing racks is that you have the chance to try lots of different styles from brands you may have never heard of. Take your time with this. Keeping an open mind also means having to think about your wardrobe at home. You have to imagine it hanging there in your wardrobe. How will this new-to-you item fit in? Can it work with your favourite outfit? Try clothes on, if you can – or use these trouser tricks One of the best ways to ‘get it right' when it comes to clothes shopping is to be able to try it on in-store. Sometimes this is not always possible in smaller charity shops. And if you're shopping online you can't do this till you've bought the item (virtual try-on technology hasn't expanded to preloved, yet!). So a huge tip when shopping online is to make sure that you can return the item. Can't try it on in person? You could try a few tricks if there's no changing room. One way to test if a pair of jeans fit is to use your forearm. You put your arm inside the waistband. Now, how does it fit? If there's a big gap between your elbow, hand and the end of the jeans, they're too big. Can't fit your arm in at all? The jeans are likely too small. Another way is to wrap the waist of a pair of trousers around your neck. If it fits snugly around your neck then the trousers will likely fit. With things like tops or jackets it is much easier to actually try the item on. Otherwise for longer dresses or boiler suits you may need to hold them up to your body at key points like your hips, chest and bust to see if they would fit. Not all secondhand clothes are equal It is worth shopping around to see what different shops offer. There are different levels to preloved fashion. Usually, when you think of secondhand clothes you imagine clothes that have already been well-loved and lived in. But in reality, preloved clothes include things like returns, samples and items used for photography that can no longer be listed as ‘new'. They are still brand new, but may be missing tags or original packaging. In this case, you're getting a bargain which no one has actually worn for any length of time. Sometimes you can find this kind of nearly new stock direct from brands at their outlets. But often you'll stumble upon them being sold in charity shops. Be prepared to embrace small imperfections When clothes have multiple owners, they are bound to develop some minor imperfections. So don't be alarmed if you find a garment with a few flaws in a secondhand clothes shop. For items like h...

For those coffee lovers that want to protect the Earth one drink at a time, having an eco-friendly travel mug is the way to go. Enjoying your morning coffee without throwing a disposable cup is a great way to live more sustainably. And that's because throwaway coffee cups are problematic for the environment. Have you ever wondered what happens with the single-use coffee cup after you discard it? It doesn't matter if it was a paper cup or a plastic cup, chances are it will end up in a landfill or polluting the ocean. Drink Your Coffee the Eco Way with a Reusable Travel Mug To give you an example, an estimated 2.5 billion disposable cups are used annually in the UK and only 1% of them get recycled! And you probably didn't know this, but paper cups are lined with plastic polyethylene, so they can't get easily recycled either. In fact, only one in 400 paper cups will get recycled! And that's not to mention the greenhouse gas emissions from plastic production and all the trees that will be cut down to produce disposable cups! Fortunately, the solution is simple: reusable travel mugs. By using eco-friendly travel mugs, we could avoid all those environmental problems. Want to Know the Best Thing about Buying a Reusable Travel Mug? Unlike disposable cups, Reusable Coffee Cup won't leach any harmful chemicals into your beverages. So, they're a better option for your health and the environment. And when you're on the go, you don't need to worry about leaks and spills because reusable travel mugs are leak-proof! What's more, you could even save money with them! Most coffee shops offer discounts for consumers who bring their own reusable coffee cups. Besides, they're lightweight and durable. With proper care, they can last for a few years! Plastic Free Saves Money Eco-Friendly Reusable Sustainable Ready to Drink Your Coffee the Eco-friendly Way? Reusable travel mugs that are made from sustainable and durable materials, like recyclable glass and recycled silicone. With their splash-proof lid and anti-slip grip, you will transport your hot drinks smoothly! Eco-friendly coffee mugs made from recyclable stainless steel and some are fully compostable bioplastic. Here's the best part about them: Whether you're drinking a hot coffee or a frappé, these lightweight travel mugs will keep your drinks at the right temperature for hours! And if that's not enough, these eco-friendly options fit under all coffee machines and they come in a variety of beautiful colours! Could you imagine using the same travel mug for years and avoiding tons of throwaway coffee cup? Then, go get yours and make it possible!

There are many reasons this particular vegetarian pizza recipe stands out from the crowd. Firstly, it's because the dough is pretty easy to make. There is no extensive kneading session required. A few punches, and the dough is ready. Furthermore, because we are using active dry yeast, the dough rises in no more than 20 minutes. Plus, the dough itself is full of savory flavors from the garlic powder and dried herbs. Every bite is full of flavor and deliciousness. Secondly, the veggie pizza sauce is also homemade. It is a simple recipe that gives are super delicious sauce. Furthermore, you can store this veggie pizza sauce in an airtight container for as long as 15 days. The tomato sauce is, rich and has a depth of flavor that shines through in the pizza. Lastly, because it is a vegetarian pizza, you get to use your favorite vegetables. From artichokes to olives, you can mix and match any vegetable you want. It brings a healthy option to the table. Healthy Vegetarian Pizza What is vegetarian pizza? A vegetarian pizza is like any other pizza delicious, flavoursome and full of vegetables. Unlike several pizzas that use meat, poultry or seafood in their toppings, a vegetarian pizza uses colourful and delicious vegetables. The best thing about this veggie pizza is that it is versatile. There are so many different vegetable toppings you can try. the sky is the limit! 5 from 1 vote Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 mins Cook Time 30 mins Course Main Course, Snack Cuisine Italian Servings 4 Calories 1583 kcal Equipment 1 Large Bowl 1 Pizza board 1 Sharp knife or Pizza knife Ingredients For the dough 2 ½ cups Flour (white or whole wheat, or both) 1 tbsp Sugar 1 tbsp Active Yeast 1 cup Warm Water 1 tbsp Olive Oil ½ tbsp Dried Thyme ½ tsp Dried Oregano ½ tsp Garlic Powder ½ tsp Salt For the sauce 1 cup Tomato Sauce ¾ tsp Dried Oregano ¾ tsp Dried Basil ½ tsp Onion Powder ½ tsp Garlic Powder ¼ tsp Dried Thyme ½ tbsp Maple Syrup ¼ tsp Black Pepper ¼ tsp Sea Salt ¼ tsp Red Pepper Flakes For the toppings ½ cup Canned or Jar Artichokes Chopped ½ cup Bell Peppers Sliced ½ Red Onions Sliced ½ cup Fresh Basil ½ cup Fresh Mushrooms Sliced Mozzarella cheese (fresh or vegan) Sliced or Shredded Instructions Tips for perfect vegetarian pizza Make sure the sauce you are using is not watery or thin. It so, it will make your pizza soggy. Slicing the vegetables thinly will make them cook fast in the oven. However, if you don't like them crunchy or like them well done, you can sauté them in advance, cool them and then use them on the pizza. You can use either mozzarella or a combination of two cheese. If you are using parmesan cheese, add it halfway into the cook. This way, it won't get burned or charred. Poking small holes in the pizza crust helps in cooking it evenly. This technique is used by professionals all over the world. You can also use your hands to spread the dough. Make sure you grease your hands with olive oil when handling the dough. When activating the yeast, use sugar as it is the activating agents. However, you can also use plain flour for this purpose For the dough In a small bowl, add warm water,1 tbsp of sugar and yeast. Let it sit for a few minutes so that the yeast is activated. You will see bubbles starting to form.In the meanwhile, in a large bowl, add flour, garlic powder, dried herbs and salt. Mix well and pour activated yeast mixture. Knead using your hands until it turns into a sticky dough. You can use more water if the dough isn't coming together. Cover the bowl with a muslin cloth and place it in a dry place for about 20 to 30 minutes. For the sauce In a saucepan, add tomato sauce, dried herbs, maple syrup, salt, black pepper and red chilli flakes. Mix well and place the saucepan over medium-low heat. Let the sauce simmer for 10 minutes until it gets thick, and the water is evaporate Remove it from the heat and set it aside to cool down. For the assembly Once the dough has risen, take it out from the bowl and place it o...

Earth is the only planet that can support life as we know it. Yet, we're treating it like there's another place to go, but there is No Planet B! That's why many people are adopting the philosophy of sustainable living now. Even though this philosophy isn't something new, nowadays it is gaining popularity thanks to the green movement. That's because sustainable living is the best approach to live in harmony with the environment! But what are the benefits of sustainable living? In this article, you will find everything you need to know about living sustainably and some tips to start your sustainable lifestyle today! What's Sustainable Living? Sustainable living means that you're taking actions in your daily life to reduce your environmental impact. A sustainable lifestyle involves making better choices to fight climate change, plastic pollution, and many other environmental and social problems. Choices that are sustainable for you and the environment. For example, if you need to go somewhere, you could take the bus or walk instead of driving. This simple action will be better for the environment and it's something you could do once in a while. n short, sustainable living is all about reducing one's carbon footprint and decreasing the use of the Earth's natural resources to benefit nature. Why is Sustainable Living Important? The current rate of resource extraction is unsustainable for the Earth. In fact, we would need 1.6 Earths to maintain current standards of living! In other words, we're using more resources than nature can regenerate and producing more waste and emissions than the Earth can absorb. This has led to climate change, global warming, plastic pollution, loss of biodiversity, water scarcity, and many other problems! Below you can out the advantages of sustainable living & why now it's more important than ever to start living an eco-friendly lifestyle: Reduce waste and the use of non-renewable natural resources. Reduce carbon emissions and climate change effects. Guarantee a healthy and liveable future for all. Prevent water scarcity and loss of biodiversity. Promote the circular economy. Preserve natural resources. Lead to less pollution. Benefits of Sustainable Living Although the main goal of sustainable living is conserving natural resources, you will also benefit from changing your lifestyle! Some green habits in your sustainable lifestyle will give you the following benefits: Save Money One of the keys to achieve sustainable living is using fewer resources. As a result, it's an effective and easy way to cut down on costs and save money. You will spend less money on water consumption, heating, lighting, and more! Likewise, if you invest in durable items instead of buying several disposable options, you will save money in the long run. Just think about how many plastic bottles you could avoid each month with one reusable bottle! Improve Your Health Some sustainable living practices like walking and eating organic foods not only help the environment but also benefit your health! For instance, organic and locally-sourced foods are healthier and better for the environment because farmers don't use pesticides to produce them. Similarly, if you replace conventional products with non-toxic options, you won't expose to toxic chemicals that could affect your health. So, a sustainable lifestyle will give you many health benefits! Connect with Your Community Another benefit of sustainable living is that it will help you meet new people and connect with those around you. You could also get to know people with similar interests! This will happen when you start looking for local cultural activities, local stores, community projects, recycling points, and others. You could even inspire others to live more sustainably! Feel Better Besides providing health benefits, a sustainable lifestyle could make you feel better about your actions and decisions as well. Every time you take an action that will benefit the environment, you...

You've probably seen a photo of plastic pollution in the ocean, heard about it in the news, or discussed it with a friend. Yet, this problem is much more complicated than you think. So, let's learn more about it! In this article, we've put together a few facts that most people don't know about plastic pollution. Keep reading and find out how many of them you didn't know either! Also, you will find some tricks to fight plastic pollution! Plastic pollution has become one of the biggest problems for the environment. To solve this problem, it's important to understand how it affects the environment, wildlife, municipal solid waste management, and your health: Shocking Facts About Plastic Pollution Plastic pollution is everywhere When somebody talks about plastic pollution, the ocean is probably the first place that comes to your mind. But it turns out that plastic pollution is not limited to the oceans. You can find plastics in the streets, rivers, beaches, mountains, and even in the Arctic ice. Moreover, microplastics are literally raining down from the sky! What's worse, some researchers found microplastics in the placentas of unborn babies! About 8 million tonnes of plastic enter the ocean every year The oceans are home to many marine species. That said, plastic pollution is affecting these beautiful ecosystems. Nowadays, there are more than 5 trillion pieces of plastics already in the oceans! And to make it even worse, more than 8 million tonnes of plastic find their way into the oceans every year. Around 80% of ocean plastics come from land-based sources For most people, it's hard to imagine that their plastic waste could end up in the ocean. But the truth is that around 80% of the ocean litter comes from land-based sources. How is this possible? In places with poor waste management , plastic waste could be blown away by the wind or carried to rivers via storm drains. There will be more plastic than fish in the oceans by 2050 Even though plastic pollution is already a big problem, it's expected to get worse in the years to come! If we don't reduce plastic waste and solve this problem now, there will be more plastics than fish in the oceans by 2050. Instead of catching fish, we will end up removing plastics from the oceans. Could you imagine a future like that? Plastics never disappear but rather break down into smaller pieces When plastics end up in natural environments, they don't decompose in the same way as organic materials do. While fruits will biodegrade in a matter of weeks, some plastics could take more than 400 years to decompose! And in the worst scenario, plastics will only break down into smaller pieces called microplastics, which means they will never fully disappear! Plastic pollution kills around one million marine animals each year Plastics kill more than 1 million marine animals, such as mammals, fish, turtles, and seabirds each year! Many of them mistake plastics for their prey and eat them. This will reduce their urge to eat and they will eventually die of starvation! Other animals could get tangled up in plastics, like abandoned fishing gears or six-pack rings. As a result, they will have a very painful death. You're probably eating around 70,000 microplastics each year Plastics are not only affecting the environment but also making their way into your dinner plate. That's right, you're eating tiny pieces of plastics every day as well. Some studies suggest that the average person eats around 70,000 microplastics each year! There isn't enough information about how these plastics could affect your health, but as you're probably guessing, it sounds like bad news. Only 9% of all plastic waste ever produced has been recycled If you think that recycling is the solution to plastic pollution, think twice. Unfortunately, recycling is far from being a solution to plastic waste. So far, only 9% of all plastic waste ever produced has been recycled! What about the rest? Well, 12% of it has been incinerated and the o...

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Living a zero waste & zen lifestyle blog – Zero & Zen We are a small eco family with a passion for the world that we live in. We have a passion to help our planet & love anything, eco friendly, natural, sustainable, zero waste & just being more green, Want To Start Living A Sustainable Lifestyle? All of our articles are about living an eco & ethical lifestyle, going plastic free, cruelty-free & sustainable issues and tips. Also we add free healthy, tasty vegetarian & vegan recipes weekly. We often hear about being eco-friendly, this is one of the fundamentals of Sustainable living. Sustainability, means we are not using up all of the earth's resources, these are not infinite. By living a sustainable and eco-friendly lifestyle, we will play a small part in the health of our environment, by making changes in our lifestyle, we can use alternative solutions to improve sustainability. It can feel like a whole new world when you hear terms like fast fashion, zero-waste, minimalism, and being environmentally conscious when it comes to living sustainably. Ultimately, each of these terms will be striving for the same goal and the same purpose in life, to nourish and care for our surroundings, and to protect our earth from the effects of climate change. Like viral video's and trends, your choice to live sustainably will no doubt effect others, and hopefully encourage others to do the same, even if it's only in a small way. Living sustainably, takes time, do this at your own pace and in a way that works for your own environment. Opinions matter We know what our visitors think matter most. So we'll make sure that every comment on site is read, and more importantly worked on if any feedback is given or negative experience is had. Using what we can, we'll make sure all our most popular articles & recipes are where they should be, at the front so you can get to them easier! Articles & Recipes All of the articles on Zero & Zen is written by a member of our team, Cristina is a full time professional writer with Bachelor of Science Degree in Environmental and Natural Resources Engineering. The recipes we provide are also created, cooked, photographed & written by a few long time vegans. All the content on our website is 100% factually correct and trustworthy, we fact check all of the information we post before it goes live. Welcome to Zero Zen.

Audio podcasting is the process of recording an audio production and distributing it in digital format. Podcasts can be live or pre-recorded and accessed through a wide network of websites and apps. We are a podcast friendly website for the visually impaired. We provide an audio descriptions via podcast at the beginning of every page & post on our website. The Benefits of an Audio Podcast The benefits of an audio podcast are numerous. podcasts have become a popular form of entertainment for everyone, but more so for those who are blind or visually impaired. But you can also listen to podcasts at any location – even if you are travelling or driving. Plus, many people find that audio podcasts are more enjoyable to listen to when some articles are long reads. Audio podcast can also be very helpful if you like following recipes guides but would like to do it without turning pages or keep picking up the recipe book. Conclusion Audio podcasting is a form of podcast that is recorded and distributed as an audio file. People that are blind or visually impaired find them very useful however, people without visually impairments also find them enjoyable to listen to. These files are often shared through blogs, apps, or social media sites. Audio podcasts can be played on various devices such as smartphones, tablets, PCs, and more. So click on the links if you want to hear our eco lifestyle blogs or would like to make some tasty vegetarian recipes .

Getting rid of weeds is a common issue most gardeners face. If you decide to pull them out one by one, these undesirable plants can become a time-consuming problem and frankly, backbreaking work. That's why most gardeners prefer to use synthetic or natural weed killer options instead. As you might know, herbicides are the most effective option to deal with weeds. But there's one problem: They often contain toxic chemicals, like glyphosate, that are linked to an increased risk of cancer and contribute to the global decline in bees. The good news is that you can make your own natural weed killer with safe ingredients you already have at home, like salt and vinegar! Want to know how? In this article, we've put together the best homemade weed killer recipes to help you keep weeds at bay without affecting your health or harming wildlife. Plus, you'll also find some safety considerations and tips to use your homemade weed killer like a pro! Weeds are basically the unwanted plants that grow beside other wanted plants. They are unwanted mainly because they compete with the other plants for sunlight, water, air and space and sometimes just because they are not as pretty as other plants. So, let's jump right in. Best Homemade Natural Weed Killers to Use in Your Garden Commercial herbicides aren't a safe option to use in your garden and unfortunately, eco-friendly weed killers are difficult to find. If you're not a fan of pulling weeds by hand, making a homemade weed killer with naturally-derived ingredients might be the best option for you. Take a look at the best natural weed killer recipes you can try: Use Boiling Water to Kill Weeds Let's start with the easiest eco-friendly weed killer option: Boiling water. With this simple and natural alternative to herbicides, you won't need to mix anything. You just need to boil up some water and pour it on the weeds. Make sure to use enough water to kill the weeds at their roots. If you want to make boiling water even more effective, you can add salt to this simple homemade weed killer option. Keep in mind that salt can prevent future growth, so don't use it in areas where you're planning to grow things later. This natural weed killer is useful for areas like pavement cracks because it won't affect the plants you want to keep. Pro-tip: Reuse water from boiling vegetables to kill the weeds in your garden and save energy at the same time. Additionally, use a kettle with a spout to target the unwanted weeds. Eco-Friendly Weed Killer Recipe with Salt Salt can be a strong homemade weed killer if applied in high enough doses. That said, you should choose carefully the areas where you're going to apply this natural weed killer. And that's because applying too much salt in your garden can kill all types of plants, not just weeds. This homemade weed killer can even make it difficult to grow new plants for a long time, so keep it out of your flower beds. The good news is that it's a good option to kill weeds on paths and drives! To make this natural weed killer recipe, you'll need: One part household table salt Two parts water Spray bottle Add the salt and water to the spray bottle, mix and wait until the salt has dissolved. Then, spray this DIY weed killer directly onto desired weeds. Pro-tip: If this natural alternative to herbicides doesn't work as expected, you can increase the strength of the solution. Use Newspaper as an Eco-friendly Weed Killer You don't need to use toxic chemicals to kill weeds in your garden, just block sunlight and you'll get the same results. As you're probably guessing, all plants need photosynthesis to grow. If you block sunlight, they will die sooner or later. It's as simple as that. For this DIY homemade weed killer, you only need newspaper or cardboard. Here's how to use this natural weed killer: Once you've removed tall weeds, you can lay down thick newspaper or cardboard over the areas you want to cover. This DIY eco-friendly weed killer option will help you prevent n...

Greta Thunberg is frequently in the news and on social media highlighting the plight of our planet due to climate change, this is echoed by David Attenborough's Blue Planet documentary, showing us the damage plastic and waste is doing to our coral reefs & sea life, in addition to the effects deforestation is having on our wildlife. Gradually, we are becoming much more aware of our choices, and slowly as consumers we are taking responsibility, moving away from fast fashion and making changes to how we live, by recycling, reducing and using everyday household items. Many companies are now also doing their bit by making some amazing eco friendly products that are sustainable, plastic free, organic and zero waste. So to celebrate these brands we have complied our top 50 list of UK brands that we love. So grab a cup (eco friendly of course) of tea and enjoy reading our recommended list of eco friendly brands that make amazing products to help the environment, reduce plastic waste and their carbon footprint, these companies are mostly UK based and strive for sustainable living. Table of contents Brands For Sustainable Living 2022 1. Jungle Culture 2. Kabloom 3. Brushd 4. Beauty Kubes 5. EcoEgg 6. Neon Kactus 7. Who Gives a Crap 8. Bamigo 9. Oxsy 10. Turtle Bags 11. &SISTERS 12. Shower Blocks 13. Moonie 14. Kutis 15. Planet Detox 16. Bam 17. Rugged Nature 18. Wild Thought 19. Foragers Cottage 20. Truthpaste 21.Georganics 22. Playing in Choc 23. Totsbots 24. Clothes Doctor 25. Earth Conscious 26. Panda London 27. Bain and Savon 28. Bambaw 29. Eco Living 30.Kitenest 31. Nature & My 32. Wild & Stone 33. Tabitha Eve 34. New Dawn 35. Chewsy 36. Envirotoy 37. Wild Sage 38. Mori 39. Sprout World 40. Stand4Socks 41. Fa vo 42. Totem Tea 43. Elephant Box 44. Project Blu 45. Allbirds 46. Elvis and Kresse 48. Patch 49. Northern Pantry 50. VIDA Natural Brands For Sustainable Living 2022 1. Jungle Culture This company was founded in 2020, they sell eco friendly and ethical products, like coconut bowls, reclaimed wooden cutlery, cool metal & bamboo straws, along with reusable razors. We love the design, usability and packaging of Jungle Culture. 2. Kabloom Kabloom was founded back in 2010, with the goal of making fun and friendly products that are also environmentally-friendly. Kabloom sells the innovative Seedbom, a fun gardening tool that creates a healthy garden patch for the animals that need it most. We absolutely love how unique Seedboms are. 3. Brushd The eco-friendly oral care business Brushd was opened in 2018, and have since released a high quality range of products that are great for the environment. These include their toothpaste and mouthwash tablets, dental vitamins and bamboo toothbrushes. What we love about it, is that it's a great organic alternative to something we all do everyday. 4. Beauty Kubes In 2019 Beauty Kubes started up selling great, environmentally friendly hair and skincare products. Inspired by the BBC's blue planet 2, they aimed to create a plastic free alternative to companies out there, flooding the market with products that lead to so much plastic waste. We love their products because of their great design and goal to do better for our planet. 5. EcoEgg Founded back in 2008, Ecoeggs is an innovative product that has seen success worldwide, and has won multiple awards since then. The Eco Egg is a replacement for laundry detergent and fabric conditioners, as well as being a kinder plastic free replacement. We love its quirky design and its usefullness. A great eco friendly product all around. 6. Neon Kactus Neon Kactus began in 2018, with 20 years of working in the food and drink industry showing them the impact of single-use plastics. From this, they decided to create their own reusable, functional and stylish range of cups. At Zero & Zen we love their entire range for both their trendy designs and benefit to our planet. 7. Who Gives a Crap Who Gives A Crap started in 2012 by Simon, Jehan and Danny, this funny y...

Following a vegan diet can be difficult at first. Usually, many beginner vegans struggle to create a meal plan that meets all their nutritional needs. The good news is that it's possible to go vegan easily and healthfully, you just need to learn a few things first. That's why we've created a complete vegan diet guide for beginners! In this guide, you'll find everything you need to know about this plant-based diet, from the benefits of being vegan to the potential negative side effects of veganism. But don't worry, we'll also teach you how to be a healthy vegan and reduce these risks! Not sure what you should include or avoid in your vegan diet? Keep reading to find a full vegan food list for beginners and a few vegan meal ideas. What is a Vegan Diet? According to the Vegan Society, a vegan diet is a plant-based plan that excludes all products derived wholly or partly from animals. While vegetarians choose not to eat animals, vegans go one step further and avoid eating eggs, dairy, and honey as well. But that's not all, they even avoid many other animal-based ingredients, like carmine, gelatine, and casein.For that reason, those who follow a vegan diet must carefully check food labels to avoid animal-derived ingredients. That's why this plant-based diet can be so difficult to follow for beginners, although it's not impossible. You're probably thinking that eating a vegan diet may be limiting. Yet, vegans can eat a variety of vegetables, fruits, and many other foods mentioned below. Plus, there are many plant-based alternatives nowadays. And you could also try some tasty, healthy vegan recipes, like the ones you'll find later in this article! Veganism for Beginners: Other Aspects You Should Know Besides following a plant-based diet, many beginner vegans decide to avoid all forms of animal exploitation and cruelty in all aspects of their lives as well, such as the use of animals for entertainment, clothing, product testing, or any other purpose. This is a philosophy and way of living known as “veganism”. Some people follow a vegan diet to get all the health benefits of veganism, while many others go vegan for ethical, religious, or environmental reasons. What Is The Differences Between Vegan and Vegetarian Diets? Some of them prefer to have a plant-based diet or vegetarian diet, while others opt for a vegan diet to completely remove these products from their diet. But what are the differences between these terms? Although they might sound similar, the truth is that there are subtle differences between plant-based, vegetarian, and vegan diets. What is a Vegetarian Diet? According to the Vegetarian Society, a vegetarian diet doesn't include products or by-products of animal slaughter, like meat, poultry, insects, rennet, gelatine, fish, shellfish, and stock or fat from animals. So, what do vegetarians eat? A vegetarian diet includes a range of fruits, veggies, nuts, seeds, grains, and pulses. But that's not all. Although vegetarians remove some animal foods from their diet, they can still eat eggs, honey, and dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt. For that reason, people who eat a vegetarian diet are also known as “lacto-ovo-vegetarians”. That said, there are different types of vegetarian diets: For example, some people (lacto-vegetarians) include dairy products but not eggs in their vegetarian diet. On the other hand, “ovo-vegetarians” eat eggs but remove dairy products from their diet. What is a Plant-based Diet? As the name suggests, a plant-based diet is a type of diet plan that either entirely or mostly consists of plant foods, like vegetables, fruits, whole grains, plant-based oils, nuts, and seeds. The interesting part about this way of eating is that it's not restrictive. Usually, people who stick to a plant-based diet can still choose to eat meat, fish, poultry, eggs, dairy foods, and other animal products in small portions and less often. They're also known as “flexitarians” or “semi-vegetarians”. In short, ...

Die Umstellung auf eine vegane Ernährung kann anfangs schwierig sein. In der Regel fällt es vielen Anfängern der veganen Ernährung schwer, einen Speiseplan zu erstellen, der alle ihre Ernährungsbedürfnisse abdeckt. Die gute Nachricht ist, dass es möglich ist, sich einfach und gesund vegan zu ernähren, man muss nur ein paar Dinge lernen. Deshalb haben wir einen vollständigen Leitfaden zur veganen Ernährung für Anfänger erstellt! In diesem Leitfaden finden Sie alles, was Sie über diese pflanzliche Ernährungsweise wissen müssen, von den Vorteilen der veganen Lebensweise bis hin zu den möglichen negativen Auswirkungen des Veganismus. Aber keine Sorge, wir zeigen Ihnen auch, wie Sie sich als gesunder Veganer verhalten und diese Risiken verringern können! Sie sind sich nicht sicher, was Sie in Ihre vegane Ernährung aufnehmen oder vermeiden sollten? Lesen Sie weiter, um eine vollständige Liste veganer Lebensmittel für Anfänger und einige Ideen für vegane Mahlzeiten zu finden. Was ist eine vegane Ernährung? Nach Angaben der Vegan Society ist eine vegane Ernährung ein pflanzlicher Speiseplan, bei dem alle Produkte, die ganz oder teilweise von Tieren stammen, ausgeschlossen werden. Während Vegetarier auf den Verzehr von Tieren verzichten, gehen Veganer noch einen Schritt weiter und vermeiden auch den Verzehr von Eiern, Milchprodukten und Honig. Aber das ist noch nicht alles: Sie vermeiden auch viele andere tierische Inhaltsstoffe wie Karmin, Gelatine und Kasein.Wer sich vegan ernährt, muss daher die Etiketten von Lebensmitteln sorgfältig prüfen, um tierische Inhaltsstoffe zu vermeiden. Deshalb kann diese pflanzliche Ernährung für Anfänger so schwer zu befolgen sein, obwohl sie nicht unmöglich ist. Sie denken wahrscheinlich, dass eine vegane Ernährung einschränkend sein kann. Dennoch können Veganer eine Vielzahl von Gemüsen, Früchten und vielen anderen unten genannten Lebensmitteln essen. Außerdem gibt es heutzutage viele pflanzliche Alternativen. Und Sie könnten auch einige leckere, gesunde vegane Rezepte ausprobieren, wie die, die Sie weiter unten in diesem Artikel finden werden! Veganismus für Einsteiger: Andere Aspekte, die Sie kennen sollten Neben einer pflanzenbasierten Ernährung entscheiden sich viele Vegan-Einsteiger auch dafür, alle Formen der Ausbeutung und Grausamkeit von Tieren in allen Bereichen ihres Lebens zu vermeiden, z. B. die Verwendung von Tieren für Unterhaltungszwecke, Kleidung, Produkttests oder andere Zwecke. Dies ist eine Philosophie und Lebensweise, die als “Veganismus” bekannt ist. Manche Menschen ernähren sich vegan, um alle gesundheitlichen Vorteile des Veganismus zu nutzen, während viele andere sich aus ethischen, religiösen oder ökologischen Gründen vegan ernähren. Mögliche gesundheitliche Vorteile einer veganen Ernährung Die gesundheitlichen Vorteile des Veganismus werden schon seit langem untersucht. Richtig gemacht, kann eine vegane Ernährung das Risiko, bestimmte Krankheiten zu entwickeln, senken und die Gesundheit erhalten. Das liegt daran, dass diese Ernährung in der Regel reich an Nährstoffen, Mineralien, Vitaminen, Antioxidantien und Ballaststoffen ist, aber wenig gesättigte Fette enthält. Schauen wir uns einige gesundheitliche Vorteile der veganen Lebensweise an: Blutzucker unter Kontrolle halten Eine vegane Ernährung kann dazu beitragen, den Blutzuckerspiegel zu kontrollieren und das Risiko, an Typ-2-Diabetes zu erkranken, zu senken. Und für Menschen mit dieser chronischen Erkrankung kann eine vegane Ernährung wirksamer sein als andere Diätpläne. Abnehmen Tierische Produkte enthalten mehr Fett und Kalorien als pflanzliche Alternativen. Vegane Anfänger könnten also etwas Gewicht verlieren, wenn sie anfangen, Fleisch und andere tierische Lebensmittel aus ihrer Ernährung zu streichen. Veganer nehmen auch mehr Ballaststoffe zu sich, wodurch sie sich länger satt fühlen. Reduzieren Sie das Risiko einer Herzerkrankung Ein weiterer Vorteil einer veganen Ernährung ist, dass sie zur Gesunderhaltung des H...

A long time ago, clothes were made to last for years. Before fast fashion brands, people used to buy garments a few times a year to replace old clothes or wear something new on special occasions. Nowadays, clothes are cheaper and people can afford to buy trendy clothes at least once per month. And that's how we started to hear the term: Fast Fashion. With this new trend, people tend to buy clothes they wear a handful of times or, what's worse, they never use them! Do you think this is a sustainable practice? Let's find out. If you'd like to learn why is fast fashion a s problem & what can we all do, then keep reading to discover how it impacts people, the planet, and animals. But more importantly, you'll learn how to spot fast fashion brands! What Is Fast Fashion? Fast fashion is the term used to describe the mass production of cheap, trendy, and poor-quality clothes. This unsustainable business model focuses on reworking the latest styles from the catwalk and what some celebrities or social media influencers use. As a result, people can quickly wear the “newest trends”. Here's how the fast fashion cycle works: Fast Changes in Fashion Trends: Fashion brands are constantly producing new lines of clothes to offer the “latest trends”, which they often create to keep people endlessly buying their clothes. Fast Production: They produce these clothes as quickly as possible. Fast Sale: Since consumers can wear the latest looks without spending a fortune, they don't think twice before buying these clothes. Fast Use: These clothes wear out fast and go out of style in a few months. So, it should come as no surprise that people get rid of them as soon as they become “outdated looks”. What's the Environmental Impact of Fast Fashion? Fast fashion focuses on reducing production costs as much as possible. And destroying nature is more profitable than protecting it. That's why they've become one of the highest polluting industries in the world! And this practice is contributing to the climate change Let's explore why fast fashion is bad for the environment: Water Pollution and Consumption This industry alone uses 93 billion cubic metres of water every year! Besides using large quantities of water and pesticides, they also dump untreated toxic wastewater into rivers. Industrial water pollution can exterminate aquatic life and affect communities that rely on these water sources. Global Warming Fast fashion has a huge carbon footprint. First of all, most of their clothes are made of synthetic fabrics, which are derived from fossil fuels. Likewise, most of their factories rely on non-renewable energy sources. And let's not forget that these clothes are shipped around the world. Plastic Pollution As we mentioned before, fast fashion brands tend to use synthetic fibres, like nylon and polyester, to keep their prices low. When we wash these clothes, they release tiny plastic particles known as microfibres. To give you an idea, around 700,000 fibres can come off these clothes in a typical wash! But that's not all. Since these fibres are so small, they can pass through the wastewater treatment systems and end up polluting our oceans. Not only will they harm marine animals, but they will also become part of our diet! Waste Another problem with fast fashion is the inconceivable amount of waste it creates: around 92 million tonnes of textiles waste each year! As clothes became cheaper, consumers now see them as disposable. So, people don't keep them in their wardrobes for too long. And even if they wanted to, these poor-quality clothes are not made to last. For that reason, they're rarely suitable for resale and end up sitting in landfills. But consumers are not the only ones generating textile waste. Some brands also discard clothes that are no longer “modern” instead of selling them! Why Is Fast Fashion Bad for Workers? Fast fashion brands also reduce their production costs by exploiting garment workers and farmers. Their garment workers work in dan...

Während Menstruation ein natürlicher und gesunder Vorgang ist, sind herkömmliche Damenhygieneprodukte nicht gut für Ihren Körper. Herkömmliche Menstruationsprodukte enthalten nicht nur schädliche Chemikalien, sondern sind auch nicht umweltfreundlich. Zum Glück gibt es einige Alternativen, um eine umweltfreundliche Periode zu haben! Sie müssen nicht mehr ständig Damenhygieneprodukte verwenden, die Ihre Haut reizen könnten und die Umwelt verschmutzen . Heutzutage gibt es viele Möglichkeiten, die aus natürlichen, sicheren und organischen Materialien hergestellt werden und die Ihren Bedürfnissen bei der Körperpflege entsprechen! Wollen Sie das Beste wissen? Wir haben 5 wunderbare, umweltfreundliche Damenhygieneprodukte ausgewählt, die Sie in Großbritannien ausprobieren können. Und wenn Sie noch Zweifel haben, Lesen Sie weiter, um die Vorteile dieser Periodenprodukte zu erfahren! Sind Binden und Tampons für die Periode umweltfreundlich? Leider sind die üblichen Binden und Tampons nicht umweltfreundlich. Da diese Damenhygieneprodukte aus einer Mischung aus Kunststoff und nicht biologisch angebauter Baumwolle hergestellt werden, verursachen ihre Herstellung und Entsorgung mehrere Umweltprobleme. Wussten Sie, dass die durchschnittliche Frau in ihrem Leben etwa 11.000 Einwegprodukte für die Menstruation verwendet? Diese Binden und Tampons werden für immer auf Mülldeponien landen, oder noch schlimmer, Verschmutzung der Ozeane und Strände! Ein Beispiel dafür, wie groß das Problem ist: 2010 wurden bei einer Strandreinigung im Vereinigten Königreich durchschnittlich 30 Damenhygieneprodukte aus Plastik pro Kilometer britischer Küste gefunden! Und das ist noch nicht alles! Sie sollten auch die Treibhausgasemissionen bei der Kunststoffherstellung berücksichtigen. Vorteile von umweltfreundlichen Damenhygieneprodukten Die Lösung für dieses Problem ist jedoch einfach. Sie können Ihre herkömmlichen Binden, Einlagen und Tampons durch andere umweltfreundliche Damenhygieneprodukte ersetzen. Überprüfen Sie die Vorteile dieser wunderbaren Menstruationsprodukte: Sie schützen dich während deiner Periode Wenn Sie sich Sorgen machen, wie wirksam diese umweltfreundlichen Optionen sind, werden Sie froh sein zu hören, dass sie unglaublich saugfähig sind! Umweltfreundliche Damenhygieneprodukte halten Ihr Menstruationsblut zurück und verhindern das Auslaufen der Periode. Sie tragen nicht zur Verunreinigung von Damenbinden bei Eines der Probleme mit herkömmlichen Menstruationsprodukten ist, dass sie zu viel Abfall erzeugen. Bedenken Sie, wie viele Tampons, Binden, Slipeinlagen und Applikatoren weltweit weggeworfen werden. Das sind etwa 200.000 Tonnen Plastikmüll pro Jahr! Andererseits sind umweltfreundliche Damenhygieneprodukte entweder biologisch abbaubar oder wiederverwendbar. Außerdem kommen sie in wiederverwendbar Verpackung. Daher sind sie eine gute Option für eine abfallfreie Zeit! Sie werden Ihre Haut nicht reizen Die meisten Frauen wissen nicht, dass ihre Menstruationsprodukte giftige Chemikalien enthalten können, die ihnen gesundheitliche Probleme wie Hautreizungen oder Krebs verursachen können. Das ist richtig. Konventionelle Menstruationsprodukte enthalten Spuren von Dioxinen, Chlor und Herbiziden wie Glyphosat. Sie wollen doch nicht den empfindlichsten Teil Ihres Körpers diesen giftigen Substanzen aussetzen, oder? dann, umweltfreundliche Produkte sind die beste Wahl. Diese Produkte sind frei von Giftstoffen, Chlor, Pestiziden, Farbstoffen, Kunstfasern und Duftstoffen. Sie sind also gut für deinen Körper! Sie sind kosteneffektiv Egal, ob Sie sich für Bio-Binden, Baumwolltampons, eine Menstruationstasse oder eine andere umweltfreundliche Option entscheiden, Sie werden auf lange Sicht Geld sparen! Und warum? Nun, Baumwolle ist sehr saugfähig, so dass Sie weniger Damenhygieneprodukte verwenden müssen. Ebenso können wiederverwendbare Produkte, wie z. B. eine Menstruationstasse, mehrere Einwegprodukte pro Monat ersetzen! 5 Öko-Hygieneprodukte für die D...

Wälder sind die Lunge der Erde. Sie absorbieren enorme Mengen an Kohlendioxid aus der Atmosphäre und versorgen uns im Gegenzug mit reinem, sauberem Sauerstoff. Doch die Unternehmen fällen sie, um etwas zu produzieren, das wir sowieso die Toilette hinunterspülen werden! Toilettenpapier ist für den sekundenschnellen Gebrauch gedacht. Warum also sollte man dafür Zellstoff aus Frischholz verwenden? Es gibt keinen Grund, unsere Wälder zu zerstören, wenn es nachhaltige Alternativen gibt, wie recyceltes Toilettenpapier und Bambustoilettenpapier. Wenn Sie das umweltfreundlichste Toilettenpapier verwenden möchten, Lesen Sie weiter, um unseren Vergleich zwischen Recycling-Toilettenpapier und Bambus-Toilettenpapier zu finden und entdecken Sie, was besser für die Umwelt ist! Bambus-Toilettenpapier im Vergleich zu normalem Bambus-Toilettenpapier ist eine viel bessere Option für die Umwelt als die übliche Toilettenpapierrolle aus Frischfaser. Wenn es aus verantwortungsvollen Quellen stammt, kann dieses umweltfreundliche Toilettenpapier dazu beitragen, die Abholzung von Wäldern zu verhindern. Das liegt daran, dass Bambus nach der Ernte wieder nachwächst, so dass er nicht neu gepflanzt werden muss. Aber ist es besser als recyceltes Toilettenpapier? Schauen wir uns die Vor- und Nachteile dieser baumfreien Option einmal genauer an: PROS Bambus ist die am schnellsten wachsende Pflanze der Welt, er kann bis zu 20 Mal schneller wachsen als manche Bäume. Während ein durchschnittlicher Baum ein Jahr braucht, um einen Meter zu wachsen, kann Bambus dieses Wachstum in einer Stunde schaffen. Das macht Bambus zu einer wunderbaren Alternative, um die Abholzungsrate zu reduzieren! Im Gegensatz zu Bäumen muss diese Pflanze nach der Ernte nicht nachgepflanzt werden. Klopapierrollen aus Bambus setzen 30 % weniger Treibhausgase frei als solche aus Frischholz! Bambus-Toilettenpapier ist zu 100 % biologisch abbaubar und wird schneller abgebaut als herkömmliches und recyceltes Toilettenpapier. Bambus verbraucht weniger Wasser als andere Pflanzen und benötigt keine Düngemittel oder Pestizide für sein Wachstum. Bambuspflanzen können unter verschiedenen klimatischen Bedingungen gedeihen und auf ausgelaugten Böden wachsen. Außerdem können diese Pflanzen degradierte Böden wiederherstellen! CONS Einige Marken verwenden Bleichmittel, um die Farbe des Endprodukts zu verbessern. Allerdings können chlorhaltige Toilettenpapierrollen Ihre Haut und die Umwelt schädigen. Achten Sie also darauf, dass Sie bleichmittelfreies Bambustoilettenpapier kaufen. Wir sollten nicht vergessen, dass die meisten Bambusprodukte aus Asien stammen. Sie müssen also Tausende von Meilen über den Ozean transportiert werden, damit wir hier im Vereinigten Königreich Bambustoilettenpapier verwenden können. Und wie Sie vielleicht wissen, trägt der Schiffsverkehr zum Klimawandel bei. Einige Laubwälder werden zerstört, um Platz für Bambusplantagen zu schaffen. Da Bambus-Toilettenpapier eine Alternative sein sollte, um die Abholzung von Wäldern zu verhindern, ist es wichtig, eine Option zu wählen, die aus nachhaltigen Quellen stammt. Sie können sich für Produkte entscheiden, die vom Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) zertifiziert wurden. Recycling-Toilettenpapier im Vergleich zu normalem Papier Wie der Name schon sagt, wird Recycling-Toilettenpapier aus Papierprodukten hergestellt, die ausrangiert und dann recycelt wurden. Und keine Sorge, schmutziges Toilettenpapier gehört nicht dazu. Tatsächlich stammt diese nachhaltige Option aus Schulbüchern, Büropapier, Zeitungen und Zeitschriften. Lassen Sie uns nun über die Vor- und Nachteile dieses umweltfreundlichen Toilettenpapiers sprechen: PROS Da dieses umweltfreundliche Toilettenpapier aus recycelten Abfällen hergestellt wird, müssen die Unternehmen keine lebenden Bäume fällen, um ein Wegwerfprodukt herzustellen. Dies ist also eine viel bessere Option für die Umwelt als die Verwendung von Frischfasern! Dieses umweltfreundliche Toilettenpapier verringert nich...

Los bosques son los pulmones de la Tierra. Absorben una enorme cantidad de dióxido de carbono de la atmósfera y nos proporcionan a cambio oxígeno puro y limpio. Sin embargo, las empresas las talan para producir algo que de todos modos vamos a tirar por el retrete. El papel higiénico está pensado para ser utilizado durante unos segundos. Entonces, ¿por qué utilizar pulpa de madera virgen para esto? No hay necesidad de destruir nuestros bosques cuando hay alternativas sostenibles, como el papel higiénico reciclado y el papel higiénico de bambú. Si quieres utilizar el papel higiénico más ecológico, siga leyendo para encontrar nuestra comparación entre el papel higiénico reciclado y el papel higiénico de bambú y descubra cuál es mejor para el medio ambiente. Papel higiénico de bambú frente al normal El papel higiénico de bambú es una opción mucho mejor para el medio ambiente que el típico rollo de papel virgen. Cuando se obtiene de forma responsable, este papel higiénico ecológico puede ayudarle a evitar la deforestación. Y es que el bambú vuelve a crecer después de ser cosechado, por lo que no es necesario volver a plantarlo. ¿Pero es mejor que el papel higiénico reciclado? Veamos los pros y los contras de esta opción sin árboles: PROS El bambú es la planta de más rápido crecimiento del planeta, puede crecer hasta 20 veces más rápido que algunos árboles. Mientras que el árbol medio tarda un año en crecer 30 centímetros, el bambú puede lograr ese crecimiento en una hora. Esto hace que el bambú sea una alternativa maravillosa para reducir las tasas de deforestación. A diferencia de los árboles, esta planta no necesita ser replantada una vez cosechada. Los rollos de papel higiénico de bambú emiten un 30% menos de gases de efecto invernadero que los fabricados con madera virgen. El papel higiénico de bambú es 100% biodegradable y se descompone más rápidamente que el papel higiénico tradicional y el reciclado. El bambú utiliza menos agua que otras plantas y no requiere el uso de fertilizantes o pesticidas para crecer. Los cultivos de bambú pueden prosperar en diferentes condiciones climáticas y crecer en suelos agotados. Además, ¡estos cultivos pueden restaurar las tierras degradadas! CONS Algunas marcas utilizan agentes blanqueadores para mejorar el color del producto final. Sin embargo, los rollos de papel higiénico con cloro pueden afectar a su piel y al medio ambiente. Por eso, asegúrate de buscar papel higiénico de bambú sin lejía. Recordemos que la mayoría de los productos de bambú proceden de Asia. Por ello, deben ser enviados a miles de kilómetros a través del océano para que podamos utilizar papel higiénico de bambú aquí en el Reino Unido. Y, como es sabido, el transporte marítimo contribuye al cambio climático. Se están destruyendo algunos bosques de frondosas para hacer sitio a las plantaciones de bambú. Dado que el papel higiénico de bambú debe ser una alternativa para evitar la deforestación, es importante elegir una opción que proceda de fuentes sostenibles. Puedes optar por productos que hayan sido certificados por el Consejo de Administración Forestal (FSC). Papel higiénico reciclado frente al normal Como su nombre indica, el papel higiénico reciclado se fabrica a partir de productos de papel que han sido desechados y luego reciclados. Y no te preocupes, esto no incluye el papel higiénico sucio. De hecho, esta opción sostenible proviene de libros de texto, papel de oficina, periódicos y revistas. Ahora, hablemos de los pros y los contras de este papel higiénico ecológico: PROS Como este papel higiénico ecológico se fabrica a partir de residuos reciclados, las empresas no necesitan talar árboles vivos para crear un producto desechable. Por lo tanto, es una opción mucho mejor para el medio ambiente que utilizar fibra virgen. Además de reducir las tasas de deforestación, este papel higiénico ecológico también puede disminuir la cantidad de papel que va a los vertederos. El reciclaje de papel requiere menos energía y ag...

Forests are the lungs of the Earth. They absorb an enormous amount of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and provide us with pure, clean oxygen in exchange. Yet, companies are cutting them down to produce something we're going to flush down the toilet anyway! Toilet paper is meant to be used for a matter of seconds. So, why use virgin wood pulp for this? There's no need to destroy our forests when there are sustainable alternatives, like recycled toilet paper and bamboo toilet paper. If you'd like to use the most eco-friendly toilet paper, keep reading to find our comparison of recycled toilet paper vs bamboo toilet paper and discover which is better for the environment! Bamboo Toilet Paper vs Regular Bamboo toilet paper is a much better option for the environment than your typical virgin paper toilet roll. When responsibly sourced, this eco-friendly toilet paper can help you prevent deforestation. And that's because bamboo re-grows after it's harvested, so it doesn't need to be re-planted. But is it better than recycled toilet paper? Let's take a closer look at the pros and cons of this tree-free option: PROS Bamboo is the fastest growing plant on the planet, it can grow up to 20 times faster than some trees. While the average tree takes a year to grow one foot, bamboo can manage that growth in one hour. This makes bamboo a wonderful alternative to reduce deforestation rates! Unlike trees, this plant doesn't need to be replanted once harvested. Bamboo toilet rolls release 30% fewer greenhouse gases than those made from virgin wood! Bamboo toilet paper is 100% biodegradable and will break down faster than traditional and recycled toilet paper. Bamboo uses less water than other plants and it doesn't require the use of fertilisers or pesticides to grow. Bamboo crops can thrive in different climatic conditions and grow in depleted soils. Moreover, these crops can restore degraded lands! CONS Some brands use bleaching agents to improve the colour of the end product. However, chlorinated toilet rolls can affect your skin and the environment. So, make sure to look for bleach-free bamboo toilet paper. Let's remember that most bamboo products come from Asia. So, they must be shipped thousands of miles across the ocean so that we can use bamboo toilet paper here in the UK. And as you might know, shipping contributes to climate change. Some hardwood forests are being destroyed to make room for bamboo plantations. Since bamboo toilet paper should be an alternative to prevent deforestation, it's important to choose an option that comes from sustainable sources. You can opt for products that have been certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). Recycled Toilet Paper vs Regular As the name suggests, recycled toilet paper is made from paper products that have been discarded and then recycled. And don't worry, this doesn't include dirty toilet paper. In fact, this sustainable option comes from textbooks, office paper, newspapers, and magazines. Now, let's talk about the pros and cons of this eco-friendly toilet paper: PROS Since this eco-friendly toilet paper is made from recycled waste, companies don't need to cut down living trees to create a disposable product. So, this is a much better option for the environment than using virgin fibre! Besides reducing deforestation rates, this eco-friendly toilet paper can also decrease the amount of paper going to landfills. Recycling paper requires less energy and water than making virgin paper. Likewise, making recycled bathroom tissue creates less air and water pollution than producing traditional toilet paper. Commonly, recycled toilet paper requires less bleach because it's made from white paper. You can even find chlorine-free options! CONS Traditional and bamboo toilet rolls are often softer than recycled toilet paper. Although recycling paper requires fewer harsh chemicals than manufacturing virgin pulp, companies still need to use some chemicals to remove any impurities from the raw ...

This spicy cucumber salad is not only delicious, it's super-simple and quick! The cucumbers are tossed with a tangy, fragrant, spicy dressing, creating a perfect hot weather dish. Cucumber Health Facts Cucumbers are healthy for you in many ways: Cucumbers are low in calories but full of nutrients, this includes Vitamin C, Vitamin K, Magnesium & Potassium. So eating a healthy cucumber salad would provide you with a lot of nutrients, but on top of that they are rich in antioxidants. Antioxidants have been known to reduce chronic health conditions. Another thing that cucumbers are great for is hydration as they are made up of 94% water, so great for your skin. Quick & Easy Spicy Cucumber Salad Recipe Why not try this tasty and quick spicy cucumber salad recipe. This is a perfect example of a refreshing dish that packs a punch! Cucumbers are well-known for their beautiful, refreshing flavour. In the summer, you might find yourself drinking chilled cucumber water, or snacking on cucumber sticks with some hummus. If you're searching for a new way to use this wonderful vegetable, look no further! 5 from 3 votes Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 30 mins Course Salad, Side Dish, Snack Cuisine Asian Servings 2 Calories 230 kcal Equipment Knife Small bowl or cup Mixing Bowl Ingredients 2 cucumbers halved and sliced ½ tsp salt 2 cloves garlic peeled, minced or finely chopped 4 tbsp tamari soy sauce 4 tbsp lime juice approx. 1 lime 2 tbsp maple syrup or agave 1 tbsp sesame oil 1 tsp chilli flakes or more to taste ¼ tsp ground ginger Sesame seeds for garnish Instructions Add sliced cucumbers into a mixing bowl and sprinkle with salt. Mix well, then set aside in the fridge for about 30 minutes. In the meantime, make the dressing. Combine tamari, lime juice, maple syrup, sesame oil, chopped garlic, chilli flakes and ground ginger. After half an hour, drain any liquid produced by your cucumbers. Stir in the dressing. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and enjoy. Notes This is quite a light meal, so if you want to bulk it up, serve it over steamed rice or noodles. Alternatively, it can be a great side salad. You can use regular soy sauce instead of tamari provided you don't have a gluten allergy. If you are allergic to sesame, replace sesame oil with peanut oil, pumpkin seeds oil, or hemp seed oil. Garnish with crushed peanuts or fresh coriander instead. Nutrition Calories: 230kcal Keyword Cucumber, Easy, Quick, Salad, Spicy, Vegan, Vegetarian Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Did you know that our vegan baked herb falafel recipe is actually quite easy to make at home? All you need is a food processor and a bit of patience. Baked Herb Falafels Zero & Zen Falafel is a traditional Middle-Eastern food with a long history. Falafel is typically made with chickpeas or broad beans, as well as garlic, onion, fresh and dried herbs, and warming spices. As it happens, traditional falafel is also vegan-friendly, which made it a popular food among vegans and vegetarians worldwide. 5 from 3 votes Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 18 mins Soaking Time 10 mins Course Lunch, Side Dish, Snack Cuisine Middle-Eastern Servings 16 Falafels Calories 93 kcal Equipment Food processor Food processor Mixing Bowl Baking sheet Baking parchment or reusable silicone sheet Ingredients 150 grams dry chickpeas 1 small red onion peeled, quartered 2 cloves garlic peeled 1 tsp paprika 1 tsp cumin 1 tbsp dried parsley 1 tsp dried oregano 1 tsp dried rosemary 1 tsp salt ½ tsp black pepper 3 tbsp olive oil juice of ½ lemon 3 tbsp white wheat flour or chickpea flour ½ tsp baking powder Instructions Add the chickpeas into a bowl and add at least double the volume of water. Soak for 8-12 hours. Leaving it overnight could be a good idea to not keep yourself waiting. Drain the water from rehydrated chickpeas. Add them into a food processor, along with onion and garlic. Pulse until you get a finely processed and consistent mixture. Transfer the chickpeas into a mixing bowl. Add oil, lemon juice, spices and herbs. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. Finally, add some flour and baking powder. Start with a smaller amount of flour and keep adding some until the mixture sticks together. Wet your hands and roll small amounts of the mixture (approx. 1 heaped tbsp) into balls. Arrange these falafel balls on the lined baking tray. Preheat the oven to 200 C and bake for 15-20 minutes until your falafels are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Notes Use the chickpea flour for a gluten-free version of these falafels. Nutrition Calories: 93kcal Keyword Baked, Falafel, Herb, Vegan, Vegetarian Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Try out our tasty & healthy vegetarian butternut squash risotto recipe. this recipe is comforting, delicious & full of goodness but best of all quick & easy to make. What is Risotto? Risotto is a type of high-starch rice dish that is usually served as a first course. The word risotto, meaning “to scrape,” refers to the process of stirring the rice while it simmers in stock—the movement creates grains of rice that are shaped more or less like long grains of sand. In order for this process to take place, the cooking must be done slowly and lovingly! How to Make Risotto There are a number of different risotto recipes. The first thing to remember is that it's cooked in batches, so you can make as much or as little as you need at a time. It also helps to have all of your ingredients prepped and measured out before starting. Butternut Squash Risotto Risotto is one of the most common ways of cooking rice in northern Italy. The dish dates back to the start of the 19th century, but thanks to its creamy texture, it's still a popular dish in many countries across the globe. This vegan butternut squash risotto combines traditional elements with healthy plant-based ingredients. 5 from 2 votes Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 35 mins Course Main Course Cuisine Italian Servings 2 Calories 610 kcal Equipment Vegetable peeler Knife Non-stick pot or cast iron with a lid Spatula Ingredients 1 tbsp olive oil 1 brown onion peeled, diced ½ butternut squash peeled, seeds removed, chopped 80 mls dry white wine 150 grams arborio rice or a similar variety of short-grained rice Juice of ½ lemon ½ can coconut milk 350 mls vegetable broth Salt and pepper to taste Instructions Heat the oil in the pot over medium heat. Add onion and saute for 3-4 minutes until it starts getting soft. Add butternut squash and white wine. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring continuously with a spatula. Add rice, coconut milk, lemon juice, and vegetable broth. Mix everything together. Bring to a simmer and close the pot with a lid. Allow the risotto to cook for about 20-25 minutes. The rice should be soft and creamy, the squash fully cooked, and there should be a crust forming at the bottom of the dish. Mix everything together and serve. Notes Vegetable broth can be homemade or store-bought. Alternatively, you can use a flavour pot or a stock cube dissolved in hot water. For an oil-free dish, saute the onion with a small splash of water. If you are concerned about alcohol – don't worry. The alcohol from the wine will have completely cooked off by the time the dish is done. Nutrition Calories: 610kcal Keyword Butternut, Healthy, Plant Based, Risotto, Squash, Vegan, Vegetarian Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was! Conclusion In conclusion, there are many steps to make a perfect risotto. A good rice to liquid ratio is the most important factor. Cooking time and temperature is also important for getting the right consistency. It is important to keep stirring the risotto as it cooks, adding liquid as needed.

If you have been craving eggs since switching to a plant-based diet, we have some great news for you. This vegan egg and mayo sandwich looks, tastes, and even smells like the real thing! Quick & Tasty Vegan Egg and Mayo Sandwich Recipe This quick vegan egg and mayo sandwich recipe & tastes even better than the real thing. The secret ingredient is cauliflower. Despite being low in calories, this vegetable is packed full of fibre and other useful nutrients. Tofu adds the necessary protein content, while bread is a great source of carbs. This vegan egg & mayo sandwich is a tasty yet balanced meal, perfect for easting on-the-go! 5 from 1 vote Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 20 mins Course Lunch, Snack Cuisine Mediterranean Servings 4 Calories 424 kcal Equipment Knife Knife Pot Grater Frying Pan Mixing Bowl Ingredients ½ Head cauliflower approximately 400g, broken into florets 180 grams Firm tofu grated ¼-½ tsp Black Himalayan salt ¼ tsp Turmeric 4 Stalks of spring onion chopped 2-3 tbsp Vegan mayo 1 tsp Dijon mustard 8 Slices of sandwich bread or 4 baguettes Greens as desired Instructions Bring water to boil in a medium pot. Add cauliflower florets and cook them for about 10-15 minutes. The texture should be soft enough to easily pierce with a fork but firm enough to maintain its integrity. Drain the water and allow the cauliflower to cool. Heat the frying pan over medium heat. Add tofu, black salt and turmeric. Cook it for about 10 minutes, stirring regularly. Allow it to cool down. Once cauliflower is cool enough to handle, chop it into small pieces. In a mixing bowl, combine cauliflower, tofu, spring onions, vegan mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard. Give it a good mix. To assemble a sandwich, simply add your “egg” filling and your favourite greens. Notes If you don't have access to store-bought vegan mayo, you can replace it with a mixture of 2-3 tbsp of coconut yoghurt and 1 tbsp of nutritional yeast. Store the filling separately from the bread. Sandwich tastes best when it's assembled just before serving. Nutrition Calories: 424kcal Keyword Sandwich, Vegan, Vegan Egg and Mayo, Vegan Egg and Mayo Sandwich, Vegan Sandwich Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Try our tasty and fresh vegan tofu tacos recipe is quick & easy to make, you will love them, Mexico classic tacos but with a vegan twist. Easy Vegan Tofu Tacos Recipe Tacos are such a great comfort food! Whether you like them soft or crunchy, spicy or mild, our vegan tofu tacos are pretty much guaranteed to improve anyone's day. Thanks to a variety of garnishes, this versatile dish can be served to a large group of people with different tastes. This vegan tofu taco recipe includes delicious tofu filling, similar to ground beef used in traditional tacos. 5 from 1 vote Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 30 mins Cook Time 1 min Course Lunch Cuisine Mexican Servings 4 Calories 117 kcal Equipment Knife Knife Frying Pan Stirring Spoon or Spatula Ingredients 1 tbsp Olive oil 1 Brown onion peeled, quartered and sliced 2 Cloves garlic peeled, sliced 200 grams Firm tofu crumbled ½ Can Chopped tomatoes ½ tsp Paprika ½ tsp Liquid smoke 2 tbsp Tamari soy sauce ½ tsp Black pepper 8 mini Tortillas or Taco shells For the garnish (to taste) Mixed lettuce Salsa or guacamole Fresh cherry tomatoes quartered Pickled jalapenos Sriracha Lime wedges Instructions Heat the oil in the frying pan over medium heat. Add onion and garlic. Saute for 3-5 minutes, until the onions start turning translucent. Add crumbled tofu and keep cooking everything together for about 5 minutes. Next, add canned tomatoes, soy sauce, paprika, liquid smoke and black pepper. Cook until the liquid is absorbed, and the mixture is a reddish-brown colour. Prepare your garnish and tortillas (or taco shells). If desired, warm up the tortillas or shells in the oven. Serve the tacos family style: add your favourite garnish and as much filling as you like. Drizzle with some hot sauce or lime juice and enjoy! Notes You can use regular soy sauce instead of tamari provided you don't have a gluten allergy. If you have a soy allergy, you can use cooked lentils (drained and rinsed) instead of tofu and liquid aminos instead of soy sauce. If you don't have access to liquid smoke, use smoked paprika instead of regular paprika. This filling is also great for a burrito, along with some beans and rice! Nutrition Calories: 117kcal Keyword Tacos, Tofu, Tofu Tacos, Vegan, Vegan Tacos, Vegan Tofu, Vegan Tofu Tacos Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Just because you're vegan, doesn't mean you should miss out on traditional elements of the Christmas meal. This braised red cabbage requires minimal effort, while bringing maximum flavour. Vegan Braised Red Cabbage Recipe This recipe is a beginner-friendly side dish, meaning you can make this even if you've never held a spatula in your hands before. Not only is it vegan, it's also nut-free, soya-free and gluten-free and perfect side for your Christmas dinner. Try our vegan braised red cabbage today, you nor your friends will be disappointed. 5 from 1 vote Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 45 mins Course Side Dish Cuisine European Servings 2 Calories 235 kcal Equipment Knife Knife Large frying pan or cast iron Spatula Ingredients 1 tbsp Olive oil optional 1 Red onion peeled, diced 4 tbsp Apple cider vinegar 2 tbsp Maple syrup or brown sugar ¼ tsp Ground nutmeg ½ Red cabbage approx. 400g, core removed, thinly sliced 1 Green apple core removed, thinly sliced 1 tsp Salt ½ tsp Pepper 2 Whole cloves 2 Bay leaves Instructions Heat the oil in the pan over medium heat. Add onion and saute for 3-4 minutes until it starts getting soft. Add maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and nutmeg. Keep cooking for another 2-3 minutes. Next, add cabbage, apple, cloves, bay leaves, salt and pepper. Bring to a simmer, cover the pan with a lid, and cook on low heat for about 35 minutes. Simply stir it from time to time. If the cabbage starts looking dry, add a splash of water. Notes For an oil-free dish, sauté the onion in a little bit of water. Nutrition Calories: 235kcal Keyword Red Cabbage, Vegan, Vegan Braised Cabbage Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

This recipe flaunts the sweet taste of roasted butternut squash, along with its creamy texture. The rest of the ingredients work together to create a refreshing salad, bursting with flavour. Butternut Squash Salad with Oranges Butternut squash is often underestimated. This winter squash is actually extremely versatile – it can be used in soups, stews, curries, pasta dishes, sandwiches, pies, and salads. Spiralized butternut squash can even serve as a healthy replacement for noodles! If you are looking for an excellent source of fibre, vitamins and minerals, you should consider adding more butternut squash into your diet. 5 from 3 votes Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 20 mins Cook Time 35 mins Course Salad, Side Dish, Snack Cuisine American Servings 2 Calories 265 kcal Equipment Chopping Board KnifeBaking tray Baking Parchment Mixing Bowl Small bowl or cup Whisk or fork Ingredients ½ butternut squash peeled, seeds removed, cubed 1 orange peeled, separated into segments, membrane removed ½ red pepper seeds removed, chopped 10 cherry tomatoes halved or quartered A handful of curly leaf lettuce chopped or torn For the dressing 2 tbsp red wine vinegar 2 tbsp lemon juice 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil see notes 1 tbsp tahini paste 1 tbsp maple syrup A handful of fresh parsley chopped ¼ tsp salt add more to taste ¼ tsp black pepper ¼ tsp garlic powder Instructions Start by preparing the butternut squash. Once it's been cut into cubes, spread it on a lined baking tray. Roast at 220 C for 30 minutes. You should be able to easily pierce the butternut squash pieces with a fork when it's done. In the meantime, prepare the rest of the ingredients. When you remove the membrane from orange segments, the segments are likely to break. That's perfectly fine! Place lettuce, tomatoes and pepper into a mixing bowl and toss everything together. To make the dressing, combine all of the ingredients except parsley in a small bowl or cup and whisk until you get a uniform consistency. Now, mix in the pasley. Once butternut squash is ready, add it to the mixing bowl. Alternatively, you can let it cool down first. Mix everything together, then transfer onto plates or bowls. Drizzle the dressing on top and voila! Notes If you prefer a lighter salad dressing, use water instead of olive oil. If you keep the dressing separately, the salad can be stored for up to 3 days in the fridge in a covered container. Nutrition Calories: 265kcal Keyword Butternut, Oranges, Salad, Squash, Vegan, Vegetarian Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Does anyone else miss ice cream since going vegan, or is it just us? And sure, dairy-free alternatives are slowly making their way into the stores, but for now, they are far from affordable. This homemade tropical vegan ice cream is simple to make but yummy to eat. Vegan Tropical Ice Cream Recipe If you are craving a refreshing, creamy treat on a hot day – we've got you! This homemade vegan ice cream (or nice cream) combines the tropical flavours of mango, bananas and lime, while staying perfectly healthy! What are you waiting for? 5 from 1 vote Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 10 mins Course Dessert Cuisine Italian Servings 2 Calories 195 kcal Equipment Knife Food processor or powerful blender Bowl or Jar Ingredients 2 Bananas peeled, broken into chunks 1 Mango peeled, stone removed, cubed 1 Lime Juiced 1 tbsp Maple syrup optional 1 tsp Vanilla essence Instructions Prepare your bananas and mango and freeze for 8-12 hours (overnight works best). Once frozen, add the fruit to the blender, along with lime juice, vanilla, and maple syrup if using. Blend until smooth. It may take a little blending but it's worth it! Notes To keep the fruit fresh try covering them before freezing with vegan food wraps. Nutrition Calories: 195kcal Keyword Ice Cream, Tropical Ice Cream, Vegan, Vegan Ice Cream Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!

Want to get rid of slugs and stop insects from eating your plants? As a gardener, there's nothing more frustrating than discovering that slugs, snails, bugs, and other insect pests are destroying your plants. And to make things worse, using toxic pesticides to get rid of slugs and bugs will give you more problems than benefits in the long run. So, it's not surprising that many gardeners prefer organic alternatives instead, like natural bug repellents and slug killers. Unlike harsh chemicals, natural bug repellents won't cause health risks, kill beneficial insects, or affect the environment! If you'd like to learn how to get rid of bugs and slugs in your garden without using pesticides, keep reading to find the best natural slug repellents and organic bug killers to protect your plants from being eaten! 15 Easy Ways to Get Rid of Slugs and Bugs Naturally While it might be tempting to use pesticides to kill bugs and slugs, you don't need to rely on toxic chemicals for pest control. Fortunately, there are many effective ways to get rid of slugs and bugs naturally! Here are some of the best natural bug repellents and slug killers: Use Clean and Organic Soil The first thing you should do to keep bugs and slugs away is to use soil rich in organic matter. If your plants are healthy, they will be less likely to be affected by garden insect pests. You should also pull out weak plants because they'll be more susceptible to pest attacks and pass the problem on to healthy plants. Attract Beneficial Insects Since you won't use synthetic pesticides in your garden, you could get some help from beneficial insects to get rid of bugs on plants organically. You can create an attractive habitat for good bugs, like ladybirds, green lacewings, praying mantises, and others. Good bugs are safer than chemicals and as effective as the natural bug repellents we'll mention in a moment. Some of them can be purchased, but you'll still need to establish the right conditions in your garden for them. It's important to select native species that would be there anyway, you don't want to cause more problems in your garden! Allow Natural Predators to Thrive Want to keep the slug population down? Natural predators can help you. The most eco-friendly and natural way to get rid of slugs is to encourage native predators to inhabit your garden. Some natural slug killers include chickens, ducks, hedgehogs, beetles, birds, toads, frogs, and others. Make sure to remove potential slug shelters, like large logs and furniture. This way, it will be easier for natural slug killers to find them. Opt for Plants that Slugs and Bugs Hate A natural way to get rid of slugs and bugs is to select a few plants they hate and plant them near the ones they love. This is also known as “companion planting”. Additionally, you can plant these natural bug repellents in areas where slugs and insect pests are persistent in your garden. Usually, fragrant plants act as natural pesticides, so they can help you keep slugs and bugs at bay. For instance, garden slugs dislike chives, garlic, fennel, foxgloves, rosemary, and geranium. Many aromatic herbs, like mint, fennel, basil, lemongrass, and citronella are great natural bug repellents too. Employ Grapefruit Halves Grapefruit halves can be a natural solution to catch slugs and get rid of them. Once you've eaten your grapefruit halves, don't throw the empty peels away. Place them open side down near affected plants to attract snails and slugs. The result: Slugs and other garden pests will take cover in the empty shells. Now that you know they will be there, what can you do next? Find the hiding slugs and feed them to the birds the next morning! Alternatively, you can lay down a damp newspaper on a hot day. This will also make it easier to collect and get rid of garden slugs at the end of the day. Make a Natural Bug Repellent with Vinegar Using vinegar to make a natural pesticide can help you get rid of bugs on plants organically. You just need to...

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Try out our tasty vegetarian roasted tomato & chilli soup recipe, it's easy to make, full of goodness & tastes amazing. Add spices to your desired liking. Types Of Tomatoes You Could Use I recommend using Roma tomatoes, as they are the perfect size for roasting. You can also use beefsteak tomatoes if you want larger roasted tomatoes. There are many ways people use roasted tomatoes, including toppings for pizza, appetizers, sauces, and pasta. The process is pretty simple. You need to pick the tomatoes that are ripe enough to cook easily. Roasted Tomato and Chilli Soup This roasted tomato soup is a great recipe for anyone who doesn't like to cook. It doesn't require any special skill or expensive equipment. For the most part, you just have to wait for the vegetables to roast, and then enjoy the result. Unlike store-bought alternatives, this homemade soup is made exclusively with whole-food ingredients, and it packs a punch! 5 from 6 votes Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 mins Cook Time 50 mins Course Appetizer, Lunch, Soup Cuisine Mediterranean Servings 4 Calories 280 kcal Equipment Knife Deep baking tray or oven-safe pan Blender Sieve (optional) Ingredients 1 kg ripe tomatoes quartered 1 carrot chopped 2 red chilli peppers seeds removed 4 cloves garlic peeled 1 red onion peeled, quartered 1-2 tbsp olive oil 350 ml vegetable broth Spices: 1 tsp smoked paprika 1 tsp ground sumac ½ tsp ground bayleaf 2 tbsp nutritional yeast Salt and pepper to taste Instructions Arrange the veggies on a lined baking tray or in a pan. Add spices and oil. Toss everything together until evenly coated. Bake at 230 C for 40 minutes. Keep an eye on the vegetables and cover with aluminium foil or another tray if the top starts burning. Once the vegetables are done, transfer them into a blender. Add vegetable broth and blend until you get an even consistency. Taste and season with more salt or pepper as desired. Serve warm with a slice of bread Notes Although blended, the texture of this soup will have tomato seeds. If you prefer a smooth soup, strain it through a sieve. Nutrition Calories: 280kcal Keyword Chilli, Roasted, Soup, Tomato, Vegan, Vegetarian Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was! Conclusion I hope this recipe has given everything you need to make your own perfect roasted tomatoes soup. You can use any or all of these ingredients to make the most heavenly roasted tomatoes you've ever tasted! Just be patient, and treat the dish with love.

Plastic pollution is one of the biggest environmental problems worldwide. That's why many people avoid conventional plastics and prefer other alternatives, such as bio-based plastics. But is bioplastic truly biodegradable or is it another form of greenwashing? Bioplastics seem like an eco-friendly option for both consumers and manufacturers. However, this term can cause confusion and some dishonest companies take advantage of it to deceive their customers! Not sure if you should use this material? Keep reading to learn the actual definition of bioplastics and find out if they're biodegradable, sustainable, or bad for the environment! What Is Bioplastic? As you might already know, conventional plastics are made from petroleum. In the case of bioplastics, the prefix “bio” refers to the materials these plastics are made from. Unlike regular plastics, bioplastics are made (entirely or in part) from biological materials. You could think bio-based plastics wouldn't be as good as regular plastics, but the truth is that they look, feel, and behave just like them. Some common examples of bio-based plastics are the ones made from corn starch, sugar cane, and even food waste! Plastics made from renewable sources sound like the perfect solution to plastic pollution, don't you think? Unfortunately, it is not that simple. What Can Bioplastics Be Used For? Since regular plastics are losing popularity, companies are looking for other materials to use. For that reason, many of them are using bio-based plastics for different products, from grocery bags to sutures. PLA is the most popular bio-based plastic out there and it's made from polylactic acids found in plants like corn. This type of bioplastic is a great material for food packaging, bottles, and utensils. They can also be made from polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs) engineered from microorganisms. These plastics are useful for medical applications such as sutures and cardiovascular patches. Although they're both versatile and bio-based, they still have some disadvantages. Are All Bio-based Plastics Completely Biodegradable? Now that you know bioplastics are made from biological materials, you're probably assuming that all of them are biodegradable as well. But here's the shocking part about bioplastics: “bio-based” doesn't necessarily mean “biodegradable”. Let's remember that this term describes how these plastics are made, not how long they last in the environment. In other words, not all bio-based plastics are biodegradable. And when they're, they might not break down in every environment! In short, only some bioplastics will biodegrade within a few months, but only under specific conditions. So, they could stay in the environment for years, sounds familiar? Are Bioplastics Good for the Environment? Many products use a prefix like “bio” or “eco” to attract and deceive conscious consumers. Bio-based plastics, for example, have some advantages over regular plastics. That said, it's important to see the whole picture: Advantages If discarded properly, biodegradable plastics could reduce plastic waste. They reduce greenhouse gas emissions from plastic production. Unlike regular plastics, they're made from renewable sources. They reduce the dependency on fossil fuels. Disadvantages When biodegradable plastics end up in landfills, they generate methane. This is a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change! Biodegradable plastics need intense heat to biodegrade. So, most of them will only biodegrade in industrial composting facilities. If bioplastics make their way into the environment, they won't degrade on their own. As a result, they will affect wildlife and pollute nature just like regular plastics do! Some people worry about where and how bio-based plastics are produced. They think bioplastics could promote large-scale agriculture, lead to water shortages, desertification, and biodiversity loss. Is Bioplastic Sustainable? Are biodegradable plastics a good alternative to plasti...

Learning how to recycle properly is a great way to protect the environment. Whether you're at home, in school, or at work, there's always a chance to save some items from ending up as waste in landfills. Recycling aluminium, paper, glass, plastics, and other materials, is a powerful action to conserve energy, reduce greenhouse emissions, and conserve natural resources. That's why it's important to teach family members, co-workers, friends, students, teachers, and others how to recycle! Would you like to do your part in protecting our planet? In this article, you will find the best tips to recycle more at home, work, and school. So, let's dive right in! Tips for Recycling At Home Is recycling at home worth it? Absolutely yes. Your home is the best place to start recycling and learn how to do it the right way. Once you start doing it at home, repeating these actions in your school or at work won't be difficult. Check these Simple Tips to Recycle at Home like Pro: Before you even start recycling at home, check your local council's website to know what you can and can't recycle in your area. Remember that different centres will accept different materials. For example, some places don't accept plastic bags since they could clog machinery. Designate an area of your home to keep your recyclables organised. You can use a box, bin, or bag. And try to keep this “recycling point” next to your rubbish bin. This way you won't forget to recycle at home! Always put clean, empty, and dry materials in your recycling bin. This is an essential step to prevent recyclable items from being discarded at the recycling centre. What's worse, dirty materials could contaminate other recyclables! The easiest things to recycle at home are metallic items. You can recycle most metallic items you use at home, like aluminium foil, tins, and cans. Don't forget to recycle newspapers, envelopes, phone books, and paper towel tubes. You could also recycle wrapping paper and birthday cards if they don't contain glitter. Remember to flatten cardboard boxes to fit more recyclables into your bin or box. Don't try to recycle compostable plastics. Let's not forget that these plastics won't get recycled and they could contaminate recyclable plastics. Don't forget to check if you can recycle broken glass in your area. It's important to know this information because broken glass could be harmful to handlers. Tips for Recycling In Your School If you're already recycling at home, the next step to protect the environment is recycling in your school too. Whether you're a student, parent, or part of the school staff, you can make a great difference with your actions. What's more, you could even get others involved in recycling. Want to know more? Keep reading! Here are a Few Tips to Start a Recycling Revolution in Your School: If you're a student or parent, suggest these ideas and get everyone involved. The best actions are leading by example, encouraging others, and demanding change. Most of the materials you can find in the rubbish bins of your school are aluminium, paper, cardboard, and plastic. All of these materials are recyclable. So, the first step should be placing recycling bins around the school. Talk about the importance of recycling in your school and teach others how to do it. Use posters to explain what items can be recycled at your school and label recycling points. Promote the use of electronic documents, email, and other online resources instead of printing and using lots of paper. Since paper is one of the main sources of waste in schools, this is a great way to go green and reduce waste. Another wonderful tip to reduce plastic waste is bringing a zero waste packed lunch every day. If there are any school supplies left over at the end of the year, you could donate those supplies to students in need, instead of recycling them or throwing them away. Finally, keep track of recycling rates in your school to know what's working well and make improvements where ne...

From disposable razors to plastic bottles, your bathroom is a small room full of plastics and waste. The good news is that having a zero waste bathroom is one of the easiest things to do when going plastic-free! Fortunately, there are some easy swaps that will help you reduce plastic waste in your bathroom. And the best part is that you can replace your personal care products with zero waste options as needed. With this, you will save the environment one item at a time! Are you ready to transform your bathroom and reduce your waste? Here are 10 easy swaps for a zero waste bathroom! Plastic Toothbrush Brushing your teeth is probably the first thing you do in the morning. If you use a plastic toothbrush, then you start your day by using plastics. This should give you a sign of how much plastic there's in your life! Unfortunately, most plastic toothbrushes will end up sitting in landfills or what's worse, somewhere in nature causing troubles. Replacing your toothbrush with a compostable bamboo toothbrush is the first thing you should do to have a zero waste bathroom. And the easiest one too! They're made from a sustainable crop which makes them 100% biodegradable and zero waste. Facial Cleansing Sponge Looking for a plastic-free alternative to your facial cleansing sponge? Then, you should give konjac sponges a try! Thanks to their antibacterial properties and texture, they're a gentle option to exfoliate and remove dirt from your skin. Konjac sponges are made from the konjac plant root, which makes them fully biodegradable. You can compost them once you're done with them, so they're a great addition to your zero waste bathroom! What's more, konjac sponges not only replace plastic sponges but also sea sponges. Simply put, you've found a natural, vegan, and plastic-free cleansing sponge! Dental Floss Another easy swap for a zero waste bathroom is using eco-friendly dental floss. Although regular dental floss seems harmless, remember it's made of nylon. And to make it worse, it comes in a small plastic container too! These plastics won't get recycled and they will likely find their way into the oceans. Fortunately, you can include vegan and plastic-free dental floss in your zero waste bathroom essentials! Vegan dental floss is made from a bioplastic derived from corn starch. Once you're done with it, you can send it to the nearest industrial composting facility. Besides, it comes in a recyclable dispenser! Soap Bar Getting the right soap bar at the supermarket is usually a quick choice. But have you read the ingredients of commercial soaps? These soap bars contain some toxic ingredients that could affect your skin and overall health in the long run. Moreover, most store-bought soap bars come in plastic packaging. Replacing commercial soap bars with handmade soap bars is a very easy swap! Handmade soap bars contain natural and safe ingredients to gently clean your skin. Additionally, they come in plastic-free packaging, so they're a great alternative for your zero waste bathroom! Plastic Plasters Another easy swap for your zero waste bathroom is replacing plastic plasters with biodegradable ones. Biodegradable bamboo plasters are a fantastic zero waste alternative because you can compost them at home! Like regular plasters, they will protect your cuts and grazes. The only difference is that they don't contain plastic, parabens, or latex. As a result, they're zero waste and kind to sensitive skin! Makeup Wipes When you get home, there's no better feeling than taking a shower and removing your makeup. But keep in mind that both makeup removing wipes and cotton rounds generate lots of waste you can avoid. They come in plastic packaging and you will discard them after using them just once. Swap these disposable options for reusable natural sponge wipes! Unlike regular makeup wipes, you don't have to throw these reusable wipes away. You can use them over and over again, but don't forget to wash them after use. They're a fantastic opti...

When looking for green products, it's easy to fall into the greenwashing trap. Although you can find lots of items labelled as “all-natural”, “sustainable” or “eco”, 95% of them are greenwashed. So, how can you find truly eco-friendly options? Nowadays, most people prefer products and brands that are kind to the environment. But that's not all, they're willing to pay more for these options. And companies are aware of it, that's why they want to “go green”. That said, using greenwashing techniques is the easy way out. If you're not familiar with this term, keep reading to discover what greenwashing is and how to avoid it! What is Greenwashing? Greenwashing is a marketing strategy that unethical companies use to give the impression of being eco-friendly. Instead of actually doing something good for the planet and people, they appear to be eco-friendly to increase their sales. Usually, these companies spend more resources on marketing strategies rather than actually implementing sustainable practices in their processes. They tend to use buzzwords that aren't regulated like “all-natural” or “sustainable” to make misleading claims. Here's an Easy Example of Greenwashing Would you consider a plastic bag earth-friendly just because it's made with “20% less plastic”? Even if this claim is true, these bags could still cause some problems for the environment. So, they don't make a real difference. The Seven Sins of Greenwashing When starting a sustainable lifestyle, chances are you will feel tempted to buy every product that claims to be eco-friendly. That's why it might be difficult to spot greenwashing at the beginning. But don't worry, you just need to learn the most common greenwashing tricks that companies use. Let's check some red flags to watch out for: Hidden Trade-Off Companies use this tactic to highlight some sustainable practices and hide others that might be more harmful to nature. For example, mentioning that they use recycled materials while hiding the carbon footprint of their production process. No Proof Another common greenwashing technique is making green claims without providing evidence or having a reliable third-party certification. If a company says it uses sustainably sourced materials but doesn't provide enough evidence about it, for example, it's probably lying. Vagueness When companies use vague claims or broad terms to deceive consumers into thinking their products are better for the environment. Some of these green terms include “100% natural”, “all-natural”, “environmentally friendly”, and so on. Irrelevance Some companies use irrelevant claims, like advertising products that are free of toxic substances which are already illegal. Although the claims are true, there's nothing new or innovative about it. They're just following the law like other companies. Lesser of Two Evils The lesser of two evils is another common greenwashing tactic. This marketing strategy makes a harmful product look greener than other options within its category. When in reality they're all bad for the environment or your health. Take organic cigarettes, for example. Fibbing Another unethical practice is making completely false claims. For instance, a company that claims to be Energy Star Certified while it is not. Worshiping False Labels If you've started buying green products recently, it might be easy to fall into this greenwashing trap. Some companies create fake certification labels to make you believe that their products are backed by a legitimate third party. Why is Greenwashing a Problem? Greenwashing is proof that most consumers prefer sustainably-made products over conventional ones. That's why some companies use unethical strategies to look more eco-friendly than their competitors. But there's one problem: When people buy greenwashed products, they think they're getting the best option for the environment. Yet, they're supporting exactly what they wanted to avoid: harmful practices. On top of that, they will keep buying ...

Everybody talks about the benefits of having a sustainable lifestyle. But when you finally decide to give it a try, you find yourself reading lots of different terms related to sustainability. So, it's not surprising that many people get confused by all those green terms. And let's be honest, researching and keeping track of each one of these sustainability terms can be an overwhelming task. That's why we've decided to put all these sustainable words in one place and clear up the confusion. In this article, you will find the definition of popular sustainability terms like “zero waste” and even some confusing ones like “RSPO”. So, let's get started! What Does “Eco-friendly” Mean? Even if you haven't started a green lifestyle yet, you've probably heard the words “eco-friendly”, “environmentally-friendly”, or “earth-friendly” before. These terms are the most popular ones and they describe an action or item that isn't harmful to the environment. If something is eco-friendly, then it should be kind to the Earth. That said, some companies use words related to “eco-friendly” to make misleading claims about their practices, this is known as greenwashing. Beware of unethical companies! What Does “Sustainability” Mean? While eco-friendly is an ambiguous term, sustainability has a more comprehensive definition. Sustainability is the ability to maintain an activity at a certain rate for a long time without affecting the environment, economy, or society. Take solar power, for example. Solar power takes energy from a renewable resource, not a limited and harmful energy source like fossil fuels. Besides, it meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. What's the Definition of Zero Waste? To understand this term it's important to know how the economy works first. As you might know, most products are designed to be tossed within minutes, days, or weeks after purchase. This generates lots of waste that will end up sitting in landfills or polluting the environment for years. What's worse, companies will use more natural resources to create more disposable products. That's the opposite of sustainability! Zero waste is a popular term that describes the principles of eco-conscious consumers. They focus on taking actions to reduce waste as much as possible. The goal of these actions is that no waste ends up in landfills, incinerators, or the natural environment. Popular Sustainability Terms You Need to Know “Zero waste”, “sustainability”, and “eco-friendly” are the most common green terms. But wait, that's just the beginning! There are many other popular terms you need to know to choose the right eco-friendly products. So, check this green lifestyle vocabulary: Biodegradable Something is biodegradable if living organisms like bacteria can decompose it within a short period of time. For example, your veggie scraps are biodegradable, but synthetic materials like plastics aren't. BPA-free Many plastic products (especially food containers) contain a chemical called BPA (bisphenol A). This chemical is linked to several health problems and unfortunately, it has the potential to leach into your food and beverages! If a product includes the term “BPA-free” in its description, it doesn't contain this toxic chemical. Compostable A compostable material requires human intervention so that it can biodegrade under specific conditions. This human-driven process can transform some biodegradable materials into nutrient-rich compost. Keep in mind that some materials use the term compostable although they're only suitable for industrial composting. Cruelty-free When a product is described as “cruelty-free” it means that neither the final product nor the ingredients have been tested on animals. Some cruelty-free products may contain animal-derived ingredients like beeswax though. Ethically-made As mentioned before, sustainability goes beyond protecting the environment. And that's where the term “ethic...

While menstruation is a natural and healthy process, conventional feminine hygiene products aren't kind to your body. Besides containing harmful chemicals, standard menstrual products aren't eco-friendly. Fortunately, there are some alternatives to have an eco-friendly period! You don't need to keep using feminine hygiene products that could irritate your skin and pollute the environment. Nowadays, there are many options made from natural, safe, and organic materials that can fit your personal care needs! Want to know the best part? We've selected 5 wonderful eco-friendly feminine hygiene products you can try in the UK. And if you still have your doubts, keep reading to know the benefits of these period products! Are Period Pads and Tampons Eco-friendly? Unfortunately, typical pads and tampons aren't eco-friendly. As these feminine hygiene products are made from a mix of plastic and non-organic cotton, their production and disposal cause several environmental problems. Did you know that the average woman uses roughly 11,000 disposable menstrual products in her lifetime? These sanitary pads and tampons will end up sitting in landfills forever, or what's worse, polluting the oceans and beaches! To give you an example of how big this problem is: In 2010, a UK beach clean found an average of 30 plastic feminine hygiene products per kilometre of British coastline! And that's not all! You should also take into consideration the greenhouse gas emissions from plastic production. Benefits of Eco-friendly Feminine Hygiene Products On the bright side, the solution to this problem is simple. You can replace your standard sanitary pads, liners, and tampons with other eco-friendly feminine hygiene products. Check the benefits of these wonderful menstrual products: They Will Protect You During Your Period If you're worried about how effective these eco-friendly options are, you'll be glad to hear that they're incredibly absorbent! Eco-friendly feminine hygiene products will lock away your menstrual blood and prevent period leaks. They Don't Contribute to Sanitary Pads Contamination One of the problems with regular menstrual products is that they generate too much waste. Think about how many tampons, pads, panty liners, and applicators are discarded worldwide. That's about 200,000 tonnes of plastic waste per year! On the other hand, eco-friendly feminine hygiene products are either biodegradable or reusable. Plus, they come in recyclable packaging. As a result, they're a great option to have a zero waste period! They Won't Irritate Your Skin Most women don't know that their period products might contain toxic chemicals that could cause them health problems, like skin irritation or cancer. That's right. Conventional menstrual products contain traces of dioxins, chlorine, and herbicides like glyphosate. You don't want to expose the most sensitive area of your body to those toxic substances, right? Then, eco-friendly products are the best choice. These products are free from toxins, chlorine, pesticides, dyes, synthetic fibres, and fragrances. So, they're kind to your body! They're Cost-effective Whether you decide to use organic pads, cotton tampons, a menstrual cup, or any other eco-friendly option, you will save money in the long run! Why? Well, cotton is super absorbent, so you would need to use fewer feminine hygiene products. Likewise, reusable options, like a menstrual cup, can replace several disposable period products each month! 5 Eco Feminine Hygiene Products Now that you know all the benefits of using eco-friendly period products, it's time to choose the right one for you. It's no secret that every woman has different needs and preferences, so here are 5 wonderful options you can choose from: Organic Cotton Pads Looking for a plastic-free alternative that looks just like your synthetic sanitary pads? Then, these organic pads come in handy! This eco-friendly feminine hygiene product is made from 100% organic cotton, so they're supe...

You can find many natural skin care products made of beeswax, from lip balms to moisturisers and face creams. But what are the benefits of using beeswax on your skin? The truth is that using beeswax for skin care is nothing new. This has been a common ingredient in natural cosmetic formulations. But thanks to the increasing demand for natural products, it's now more popular than ever before. And that's because beeswax skin benefits make it a fantastic ingredient! In this article, you will find 5 wonderful benefits of using beeswax on your skin. So, keep reading to discover what makes it so good for your skin! Can Beeswax Harm Your Skin? Beeswax is completely natural, so it won't harm your skin. This natural ingredient has wonderful properties that will benefit your skin. Let's not forget that people have been using beeswax since ancient Egyptian times to keep their skin healthy and moisturised. And the best part is that beeswax is good for all skin types, even sensitive ones. So, it's not surprising that it's becoming a popular ingredient in the beauty industry. Want to know more about this? Below you will find the benefits of using beeswax on your skin! 10 Wonderful Skin Benefits of Beeswax You Need to Know Many skincare products contain toxic ingredients that you can't even pronounce properly. And most of them could affect your health in the long run. For that reason, natural ingredients are a better option to keep your skin flawless. Beeswax, for example, is one of the best natural ingredients you could try. Here are some incredible benefits of beeswax for your skin: Beeswax is Kind to Your Skin One of the main skin benefits of beeswax is that it's a natural option that works for all skin types. Unlike other skincare options, this natural ingredient is less likely to cause allergic reactions. In fact, it's far superior for the management of sensitive skin than products with synthetic ingredients, according to a study. Journal of Drugs in Dermatology Beeswax Keeps Your Skin Moisturised Beeswax is a common ingredient in hand salves, face creams, and lotions. And that's because it will form a watertight layer on your skin that protects it from drying up. In other words, it will help retain the already present water molecules in your skin thus keeping it moisturised! Beeswax May Help Soften Your Skin Another interesting benefit of beeswax is that it acts as an emollient and a humectant. Not only does it lock the already present water molecules in your skin but it can also increase its water content! Likewise, this natural ingredient contains vitamin A, which promotes cell reconstruction. So, it's a fantastic ingredient that can soften and rehydrate dry, rough skin! Beeswax Forms a Protective Layer on the Skin's Surface Did you know that pollution can also contribute to skin damage? That's right, air pollution can increase the risk of wrinkles, acne, and eczema! The good news is that beeswax can protect your skin from environmental damage. How? It will act as a protective barrier that prevents airborne allergens from touching your skin, making it feel fresh and healthy! Beeswax Heals Your Skin Would you like to find a magic product to heal wounds or reduce fine lines and wrinkles? Then, look no further! Beeswax has anti-inflammatory properties and is rich in vitamin A, which is known for promoting the regeneration of cells. Vitamin A can provide many skin benefits. For example, it can stimulate collagen production, soften your skin, make scars less prominent, and reduce fine lines! Beeswax Helps to Fight Certain Skin Conditions Believe it or not, beeswax can do even more than just moisturising or healing wounds. Another skin benefit is that it can also reduce the symptoms of certain issues. Its hypoallergenic, moisturising and anti-inflammatory properties make it an ideal ingredient to treat burn injuries, dry skin, psoriasis, and eczema. If you have one of these conditions, you will get instant relief with this ingredient. M...

Having a plastic-free home doesn't happen overnight. The truth is that it can be a long but rewarding journey. And most people would agree that the kitchen is one of the hardest rooms to get rid of plastics. Think about all the plastics you bring home from the supermarket or the kitchen sponge you discard every week, just to name a few. But don't worry, it doesn't mean it's impossible to have a plastic-free kitchen! In this article, you will find 4 easy steps to reduce your plastic waste in the kitchen and transform it into a plastic-free room! Why is Plastic a Problem? Plastic has become a common material in every house, school, café, and almost any place you could think of. So, it's not surprising that many people struggle to go plastic-free. Even though plastics make people's lives easier, they're very problematic for the environment. When you throw plastics away, they have to go somewhere. Usually, they end up in landfills where they will take centuries to degrade. That's a waste of land for too much time! Where do plastics go when they don't get to landfills? Most of the time, they make their way into the oceans where they kill thousands of marine animals every year! That's why it's important to find plastic-free alternatives to reduce plastic waste as much as you can. 4 Simple Steps to Go Plastic-free in the Kitchen When you're in your kitchen, you should only worry about preparing or eating delicious foods. But what could be better than enjoying your foods and knowing you're not sending plastics to the oceans? You can make this possible with these easy steps to reduce plastic waste in your kitchen: Step #1: Make Plastic-free Choices at the Supermarket First of all, let's talk about your choices at the supermarket. What you bring home can have a big impact on how much plastic waste you end up discarding. If you want to have a plastic-free kitchen, keep in mind these tips the next time you go grocery shopping: Say No to Plastic Bags: Before leaving your house, remember to bring your reusable shopping bags with you. This is one of the easiest ways to reduce plastic waste, so don't forget your bags at home! Buy Loose Produce: It might be tempting to buy some pre-cut veggies, but you will end up with lots of unnecessary plastic waste in your kitchen. If you want to cut down on plastic packaging, buying loose veggies and fruits is the right choice! Avoid Plastic Packaging: When possible, choose products that come in plastic-free packaging or buy in bulk to reduce waste. Prepare Your Snacks and Convenience Foods: Instead of buying pre-prepared foods, you could try cooking some of them from scratch. You can find many recipes online to prepare muffins, hummus, pancakes, corn tortillas, salad dressings, and more! Step #2: Store Your Food without Using Plastic Keep in mind that having a plastic-free kitchen doesn't mean that you need to throw away your old plastic containers. On the contrary, you should use them as much as you can to prevent waste and replace them only if they're broken. Before buying new plastic containers and wraps, check these plastic-free kitchen storage options: Beeswax Food Wraps or Vegan Food Wraps If cling film is one of your best friends in the kitchen, then you should try these eco-friendly alternatives! Unlike plastic cling film, these options are natural, reusable, and versatile. But more importantly, these reusable food wraps won't affect nature once you're done with them because they're biodegradable! Beeswax food wraps work as well as plastic cling film and there are many beautiful patterns you can choose from. So, they're a fantastic option to replace your boring and harmful plastic wrap! Glass Jars Glass jars are a super versatile option for zero waste enthusiasts. You can always find ways to use them around the house. And when it comes to the kitchen, they're a great plastic-free storage option to replace old plastic containers. You can use them to store your dry goods, homemade sauce, leftove...

With the increased consciousness for nature conservation and healthier life, people are now more inclined towards practicing sustainable ways of living. Amid the Coronavirus pandemic, the world not only adopted a new routine to complete daily life chores but also revived the conventional practices that were long forgotten. A thorough cleaning of home has now become a new normal to avoid risks of getting infected from the contagious viral diseases that are out there. Likewise, people have observed that nature plays a therapeutic role so it needs to be conserved before we lose the resources that are vital for our survival. Why is eco friendly home cleaning important? As a responsible custodian of natural resources, the duty falls on us that we use the resources sustainably so our generations can also get the same privilege of benefitting from the natural resources that we had. Unfortunately, only a fraction of the world's population is concerned about planetary health. If the right steps are not taken now, then our future could be at stake. So, it is important that we inculcate the sense of civic responsibility and that we create an environment where practicing sustainability is not considered a tedious task but rather it is presented in a way that makes it easier to be adopted. If you are an eco-conscious individual looking to clean your home in an eco-friendly way, we can help you by suggesting a few tips that will not only freshen up your home environment but will also pose less burden on the environment. Once you scroll through our recommendations, you might find a few that were once shared by your parents or grandparents. So, let's see what do we have in the pack for you: 7 Tips To Eco Clean Your Home Natural Stain Remover – Lemon You might find lemon well-suited for cooking or that cheeky glass of gin, but besides savoring the dishes, lemon is also a stain remover. Its antiseptic and antibacterial properties make it one of the most effective cleaning agent. By using lemon, you can also get rid of plastic scrubbers that leave non-degradable microfilaments behind. In addition to removing tough stains, the citrus smell of lemons also freshens up the home environment. Truly an eco-friendly and economical way home cleaning. Wooden Brooms with Natural Bristles Using plastic brooms is a common practice. But, most of the people are unaware that the bristles of these brooms are made of synthetic materials such as nylon and polypropylene that are non-degradable. Though they serve the purpose of cleaning but they pose negative impacts for the environment. The bristles production itself is an energy intensive process that results in high levels of greenhouse gas emissions. On the other hand, you can make an eco-friendly cleaning choice by opting for wooden brooms, the bristles of which are made out of coarser fibers of coconut shells. Organic Floor Cleaners Did you know your household cleaners are one of the major causes of release of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs)? These compounds not only contribute to smog, resulting in poor air quality, but also pose serious risks for human health as they make way into the respiratory system. To get rid of the hazardous impacts of toxic additives present in the cleaners, it is important that you switch to natural and organic floor cleaners. With a blend of organic materials having antibacterial properties, they not only disinfect the floor but also leave lingering fragrance. Eco-friendly Dishwashing Sponge The commonly used dishwashing sponges are made up of synthetic fibers that do not degrade completely and make their way to either landfills or waterways. In addition, the sponges often have a musty smell that is caused by bacterial and fungal contamination. So, the use of the same dirty sponge is not only harmful for the environment but also for your health, because you try cleaning your utensils from the same sponge that is the main could be the potential source of contamination. Green al...

Another year comes to an end and it's the perfect time to set some new year's resolutions. While some people stick to common resolutions like exercising and losing weight, others prefer to go green and start a sustainable lifestyle. Reducing your plastic waste and going green are the best things you can do to protect the environment in 2022. According to the United Nations, 8 million tonnes of plastic end up in the world's oceans every year! So, it's time for a change. In this article, you will find 10 useful eco-friendly products that will help you go green and reduce your plastic waste in 2022! Why Should You Go Green in 2022? Unfortunately, the Earth is drowning in plastic waste and it could get worse if the throw-away culture continues. Although single-use plastics are practical, they're destroying natural ecosystems! Because of that, it's important to go green and replace these items with eco-friendly products. With this simple action, you won't contribute to plastic pollution and you could even inspire others to take care of the environment too! What are Eco-friendly Products Most eco-friendly products are reusable alternatives to single-use items. They are usually made from safe and non-toxic ingredients, sustainable materials like bamboo, recycled or recyclable materials like stainless steel. Likewise, some eco-friendly products can be cruelty-free or biodegradable. Before buying all kinds of products labelled as “eco-friendly”, you should know what makes them good for the environment in the first place. In short, they shouldn't harm the environment during their production, use or disposal. If you don't know where to start, below you will find some useful eco-friendly products to go green and plastic-free in 2022! Eco Products List: Reusable Straws Reusable Bottles Reusable Cutlery Beeswax Food Wraps Bamboo Toothbrushes Solid Soap Bars Reusable Shopping Bags Reusable Lunch Box Reusable Travel Mug Plastic Free Biodegradable Sponge Reusable Straw A great and easy way to start your plastic-free journey is ditching plastic straws. Something as simple as a plastic straw can become a huge problem for the environment and wildlife. In fact, it's estimated that around 8.3 billion plastic straws are polluting the world's beaches! The good news is that you can easily replace them with reusable alternatives like reusable eco stainless steel straws. They don't take too much space, so you can always bring one with you to enjoy your drinks! Reusable Bottles If you have access to clean water and yet you buy bottled water, it's time to stop. You're not paying for water, you're actually paying for the plastic bottle. And what's worse, you will probably throw it away sooner or later. So, you're just wasting money, aren't you? A better alternative would be investing in a good reusable bottle and fill it with clean water when possible. With this eco-friendly alternative, you will save money and protect the environment! Reusable Cutlery Most people use plastic cutlery for a few minutes and then discard it, without thinking about what will happen after this. Well, these items won't get recycled because they're too small, so they will probably end up in the ocean. According to the Ocean Conservancy, plastic cutlery is one of the most deadly items to marine life! If you want to go green in 2022, a great option would be using reusable wooden cutlery when eating takeaway. Beeswax Food Wraps Another great eco-friendly product you could use to go green and move away from plastics in your kitchen is beeswax food wrap. You won't need more plastic wrap because beeswax wrap is a good plastic-free option to keep your food fresh and are reusable! It's made from organic cotton, sustainably sourced beeswax, organic jojoba oil and natural tree resin. Additionally, you don't need to worry about disposal because you can reuse it a few times and it's biodegradable! Bamboo Toothbrush It's recommended to change your toothbrush every three to four months to k...