Use energy-saving lightbulbs
Energy-efficient bulbs can last up to eight times longer than a standard bulb, thus reducing greenhouse gases - and the electricity bill

Compost it, don't bin it
Plenty of food and other waste provides great fertiliser for your plants so why not create a compost heap? Compost bins are available from local councils.

Recycle cans, plastics and cardboard
Most local authorities have expanded their recycling collections to take more than the standard cans, plastic bottles and newspapers.

Turn off the tap when cleaning your teeth
A lot of people leave the bathroon tap running while they clean their teeth. Not only is it a waste of water, but it can also cost you more.

Think when making a cup of tea
Overfilling the kettle making a cup of tea uses more energy so it is best to only fill it up with the amount of water you need

Do not leave appliances on stand-by
Leaving the television set on uses an extra 10% to 60% electrcity. Switching it off from the plug when not in use can save you money.

Turn down your thermostat
By turning your thermostat down by 2degC, you can cut as much as 10% off your heating bill and help reduce carbon emissions at the same time.

Regularly defrost your freezer
Too much ice in your fridge and freezer can make it work harder in a bid to stay at the right temp, using more energy. They are more efficient when nearly full.

Use a water meter
Installing a water meter means you only pay for the water you use rather than a flat fee. Awareness of what's being used also encourages you to use less.

Use full loads when washing
Washing machines and diswashers are more efficient when they contain a full load. It also means you save on water, washing powder and electricity.

Hang out the washing
Rather than using a tumble dryer, why not hang them out to dry? Using nature to dry your clothes is more efficient and makes your clothes smell fresher.

Shopping bag savvy
Take your own reusable shopping bags rather than accepting plastic bags offered by your supermarket. Plenty of stores have 'bags for life'.

Get rid of the junk
If you're sick of the junk mail on your doormat, put a 'no junk mail' sign on your door and sign up with the Mail Preferencing Service.

Check energy ratings
A lot of appliances come with ratings from A to G, so try to go for the most energy-efficient model avaialable.

Insulate sensibly
Insulate your home, use draft excluders and double glaze. They make the house hold onto the heat for longer and keep it coller in the summer.

Water-efficient shower heads
Low-flow models are now available which can cut a family of four's water usage by as much as 280 gallons a month, but doesn't reduce water pressure.

Repair rather than buy new
Take broken appliances to be fixed rather than throwing it away. If everyone did this, fewer broken appliances would have to be disposed of.

Walk rather than drive
Places less than a mile away are within walking distance so next time you need to go on a short journey, walk instead of driving. It is cheaper, healthier and less stressful.

Freecycle website
This website www.freecycle.org allows people who have something they don't need or would otherwise throw away to find someone who might want it.