Victoria's Green Matters - 27th Dec 2012

Deal With IT's Secretary Victoria Nicholls writes a regular column in the East Kent Mercury:

Have you made your New Year resolutions yet? Perhaps you could consider living with a view to making the world a greener place? Sounds difficult? Not really and with the economic situation as it is, you could save yourself some money in the process!

One of our greatest problems in the affluent West is waste, particularly waste food, which is especially expensive as food prices rise. If you plan your meals, write down your plans and stick to them when you shop, you should be able to eliminate food waste completely. If you have leftovers from a meal, these can be creatively used for further meals. Composting any kitchen waste will give you good, homemade compost for your garden where you can grow vegetables.

Try and shop locally and buy British products wherever possible. This supports local businesses and also cuts carbon emissions from visits to out of town shopping centres. Yes, there maybe no parking charges at Westwood Cross but have you considered how much fuel you have used to get there? A good way to buy local goods is to have a box of locally grown, seasonal vegetables delivered to your door every week or fortnight depending on your choice.

Cut your fuel bills by fitting low energy light bulbs, switching off lights and electrical appliances when not in use and make your home as cosy and draught proof as possible.

Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy, Green New Year!

Victoria Nicholls. Deal With It - Transition Deal.