Vanessa Byrne

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January 28, 2022

Three ways to live healthier and more sustainably 2022

How caring for your body and mind also cares for the environment.

Move more, drive less.

Living a healthier lifestyle is always in the top five New Year’s resolutions, and following a particular
sedentary couple of years, getting fitter is top of the agenda for many. But that does not mean you have
to hit the gym five times a week whilst some 20-something paragon of fitness bellows enthusiastic
commands at you to jump higher whilst your life flashes before your eyes. Steady-state cardio, such as
walking or gentle cycling, can benefit everyone and does not require you to suffer through a debilitating
HIIT session, only never to return.

Walking is one of, if not the best way, to improve your overall health and wellbeing and is accessible to
practically everyone. Whether your goal is to move more, increase your fitness, improve your mood, or
lose weight, walking does it all.

In the long term, walking offers many of the same benefits as high-intensity workouts and are much
more manageable and easier to fit into your daily routine. Walking increases cardiovascular and lung
health, can reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, strokes, diabetes, and cancer, strengthens muscles
and bones, improves circulation and posture, burns calories, boosts your mood, and helps alleviate
symptoms of depression and anxiety.

If you are sedentary, increasing your steps progressively over time is a terrific way to start. Combining
walking one way and catching public transport back, or even getting off the bus a couple of stops early
and walking the rest of the way are great ways to up your step count.

Cycling also offers all the same health benefits and is a quick and inexpensive way to get around,
particularly in small towns with high traffic congestion. In fact, several studies have found that cyclists
are the least likely of all commuters to die from cancer, cardiovascular disease, and all other forms of
mortality. Frequent short rides are also more effective for improving fitness than occasional long cycling
sessions, so using a bike to get around your hometown is a great way to get fitter.

Understandably, however, many are wary to cycle on car filled roads with little to no cycling
infrastructure. That is why many cities are quickly adding and improving cycling infrastructure to
encourage more people to stop using cars, increase overall health and help tackle ever-rising air
pollution levels.

Finally, if cycling or walking longer distances is too demanding, taking public transport rather than
driving helps to increase your overall steps. The walk to and from bus stops all counts towards increasing
your mobility.

An increase in walking, cycling and use of public transport would inevitably reduce air pollution, which,
in turn, would also have a positive impact on public health. A study published last month estimates that
in 2019 alone, air pollution caused 1.8 million excess deaths and that 86% of people living in cities
(nearly 2.5 billion people) are exposed to levels of particulate matter that exceed WHO guidelines.

A second study also looked at the effects of nitrogen dioxide, which comes from vehicles, found air
pollution could cause 2 million cases of childhood asthma each year.

The short- and long-term effects of exposure to air pollution include a higher risk of stroke, respiratory
cancers, diseases such as emphysema, chronic asthma and bronchitis and reduced lung development in
children. Leaving cars behind would not only positively affect your own health but that of everyone in
the community.

And as we all know, less air pollution means a marked reduction in emissions, the biggest driver of
human-made climate change. All transport is responsible for 24% of global CO2 emissions, with road
passenger transportation making up a whopping 45.1% of that amount. A lot of car journeys are also
unnecessarily short. In the UK, 25% of all car journeys in 2020 were under 1.6km, 71% were under 8km.
A distance of 1.6km takes just 16-19 minutes when walking at a moderate pace.

Healthier eating equals conscious eating.

Sorry vegans, but hands up, who likes a good burger?! I admit that I do, but we cannot deny that most of
us consume too much meat and could do with cutting back and incorporating more plant-based food
into our diets.

The World Cancer Research Fund (WCRF) advises adults to eat no more than 350g–500g cooked weight
of red meat per week (50g-70g per day) and little to no processed meats.

The average meat consumption in the UK is about 86g per person per day, roughly 600g a week. By
contrast, only 28% of people in the UK eat the recommended five pieces of fruit and vegetables per day.
Red meat, which includes beef, lamb, pork, and veal, does offer nutritional benefits such as iron, B
vitamins and zinc. However, overeating red meat could lead to several health issues down the line. Red
meat tends to be higher in calories and saturated fats than white meat, and consuming too much is
associated with cardiovascular disease, weight gain, high cholesterol, and certain cancers.

Aside from the long-term health benefits of eating less meat, widening the variety and amount of fruit
and vegetables in your diet has multiple health benefits. Plant-based and vegetarian meals tend to be
lower in calories and fat, which could help people maintain a healthy weight. Legumes, vegetables, and
fruit are also high in fibre which feeds the good bacteria in your gut. This bacterium produces anti-
inflammatory and immune-supporting roles in the body and can help improve overall gut and bowel
health. Plant foods are also loaded with vitamins and minerals and can help reduce your risk of heart
disease.

Environmentally, consuming less meat is vital to help protect against habitat loss, reduce greenhouse
gas emissions and to secure the future of global food sustainability.
Global food production systems, including everything from food for human and livestock consumption,
transportation and machinery, represent 37% of global emissions. Raising and slaughtering livestock
makes up nearly 60%, or about two-thirds of total agricultural emissions, making it by far the biggest
contributor. Beef alone makes up a quarter of food production emissions, primarily because rearing
livestock requires vast amounts of land. Additional land is also needed to grow livestock feed.

Another major environmental factor of meat production is deforestation to create enough space to raise
livestock, often by setting fire to vast swathes of forestland. Burning down large areas creates massive
amounts of CO2, destroys essential carbon sinks that absorb CO2 from our atmosphere, leads to
biodiversity loss, and places species at greater risk of extinction.

Cows and sheep also produce a lot of methane as they digest food, a potent greenhouse gas that
contributes to climate change. Cutting methane emissions is a vitally important aspect of slowing global
warming.

Water usage is also a big issue when rearing livestock. Beef is the most water-intensive food to produce,
using four times as much as plant-based proteins such as lentils. Soybean production for animal feed
also requires a lot of water.

If you want to cut down on meat, try starting with one vegetarian day a week or two plant-based
dinners a week and build from there. When cutting down on meat, ensure that the remainder of your
diet is balanced and includes plenty of high protein plant-based foods such as lentils, chickpeas, and
beans. Consuming enough essential vitamins and minerals such as B12 and iron are also important.

Eating red meat once or twice a week should be sufficient, but fortified cereals, milk and supplements
can help you maintain healthy vitamin levels. If you have any deficiencies or health concerns, please
consult your GP or a qualified nutritionist.

Connect with nature.

I go to nature to be soothed, healed and have my senses put in order – John Burroughs.

Modern life and urban living have caused a disconnect from the natural world, with many of us going
weeks, months or even years without spending time in natural environments. Two years of on and off
lockdowns and restrictions have also meant that spending time indoors has become the new normal.
But even before the pandemic, the pressures of urban living, long working hours and excessive screen
time were negatively impacting the health and wellbeing of many.

Apart from being a fantastic way to unwind and exercise more, getting outdoors, especially spending
time in nature, has multiple physical and mental health benefits.

Being in nature and forest environments is thought to lower blood pressure, improve sleep, and
spending time in natural daylight is also beneficial for children’s eyesight and reduces the chance of
developing near-sightedness later in life.

Spending time in nature is also thought to reduce allergy sensitivity and boost your immune system.
Studies conducted into patient recovery also show that those able to view a natural setting from their
hospital window recovered from their surgery quicker than those who could not.

But it is not just our bodies that benefit from spending time in natural environments; our mental health
and mood can also be positively affected by getting out into nature. Even simply looking at pictures of
trees can help improve your mood and reduce stress levels.

The mental health crisis is a global issue, with rates of depression and anxiety on the rise across the
world. Of course, there is no one fix-all solution, particularly for those who suffer from chronic anxiety and depression. However, there is substantial evidence that spending time in nature can help alleviate
symptoms of stress, low mood, and loneliness.

According to a 2020 study by Cornell University, as little as 10 minutes spent in nature or green spaces
can help reduce stress. Several studies have also compared the effects of walking through urban settings
to walking in nature; and found that time spent in natural settings are more effective at reducing stress
and anxiety. Spending time in nature can alleviate mood disorders, relieve symptoms of major
depression and reduce feelings of loneliness.

Finally, cognitive functions in both children and adults can also benefit from urban green spaces and
natural environments. Short-term memory can improve by 20% by taking walks in nature, and taking
time out in natural settings can improve focus, productivity, and creativity.

And the more time people spend in nature, reaping all the physical and mental health benefits it has to
offer, the more people will undoubtedly learn to respect and appreciate its importance and the need to
protect the natural world.

Those that spend time in nature and connect with natural environments tend to display more pro-
environmental behaviours. Research suggests that improving access and contact with nature and
including green buildings and green spaces in urban areas could help cities and their citizens work
towards sustainability targets and develop greener habits at home.

How to have a plastic-free Halloween in 2020

October 15, 2021

How to have a plastic-free Halloween in 2021

Vanessa Byrne Green Living, Zero Waste Ideas Halloween, plastic free 0

As Covid19 restrictions start to ease off, more people are having parties and small gatherings. Will you be having a Halloween party this year? If you do, there are so many reasons why making it a plastic-free or zero-waste party is the way to go.

With so much extra pollution from the millions of disposable masks and gloves on our planet since the pandemic started, we would all be wise to try and reduce our use of single use plastics and other disposable materials this year.

If you live in a place where masks are still required indoors, there are some fantastic sellers of handmade and reusable Halloween face masks online these days, such as this one on Etsy in Spain.

Meanwhile, the local Chinese bazaars are brimming with endless packs of plastic, many of which will be for one-time use only. Here are some ideas on how to avoid endless plastic this year, and a reminder to ask yourself where you can reduce the waste and attempt a zero waste Halloween party to impress:

1. COSTUMES

Instead of buying new nylon or polyester costumes which invariably come in plastic packs, why not check out your local charity shop and see if you can pick up some interesting clothes or fabric from which you can fashion a homemade costume. There are tonnes of ideas you can find online for homemade costumes that won’t require great sewing skills or expensive items, but will ensure you create far less plastic waste and will be one step toward a Green Halloween. We like these ideas from Livegreen’s Recyclebank

2. SWEETS AND FOOD

It’s very tempting to buy packs of sweets for your party goers and we all know kids just can’t resist. But could you rustle up some simple homemade delights? A quick google search will find you hundreds of recipes for no-bake sweet treats so you don’t even need to slave in the kitchen for hours. Jazz up your treats with some natural food colouring to give the full Halloween effect. Try these fabulous no-bake sweet treat ideas and you’ll have a clear conscience when it comes to your low waste Halloween party.

If your guests are bringing food, ask them to bring it in their own containers which can be washed and used again. Then, if by chance there are any leftovers, they can be taken away again with zero waste.

3. TABLEWARE

If you’re hosting a Halloween party this year and really need to use disposable tableware like plates and cups, be sure to remember to buy biodegradable ones. Many shops offer a range of paper alternatives for plates and cups, but you can also offer wooden cutlery and paper straws.

4. DECORATIONS

Another big temptation is to run to the shops and grab more decorations, but the same principle applies. Have a look online for some simple ideas to create spooky interiors with glass lanterns, cut out pumpkins or jack ‘o lanterns, old branches, autumn leaves as well as reused and recycled fabric or cloth. Here are some more sustainable Halloween decoration ideas for your home

Don’t forget that once you have carved out your pumpkin, you can leave it in the garden (or campo) for the animals and insects to eat which will aid the decomposing process and will feed many creatures. If you have a compost or wormery set up at home, even better!

5. RECYCLING

If you do end up with plastic being used at your party or a lot of waste being generated, make it clear to your guests that you recycle by offering different bins. You can easily collect paper waste in a cardboard box which can then be transported to the blue paper recycling bins nearest to you. In our local area, the yellow recycling bins take many types of plastic so offer a bin for plastic waste then at least if you can recycle it, there will be less waste going into landfill. Glass is an obvious one and should your fabulous friends or close family bring you bottles of fizz, they too can be easily recycled, adding to the eco-status of your party.

These are just five simple tips to get you thinking about how you can make your party zero waste and plastic-free this year and have a Halloween party to make even the greenest eco warriors proud. Tell us how you get on or share any more ideas in the comments below.

May 14, 2021

World Bee Day – Why Are Bees So Important?

Vanessa Byrne Environment, Green Living bees, world bee day 0

World Bee Day is coming up on 20^th May 2021 so we decided to look a bit deeper into bees and why they are so important, as well as what we can do to protect them.

The day was originally proclaimed to be official by the UN in 2017 after the Slovenia Bee-Keepers’ Association had campaigned for it to be recognised for three years. All UN states supported the initiative, and it is co-sponsored by 115 countries including USA, Canada, China, Russia, Argentina, India and Australia. So it has really become a globally-recognised event.

In the words of the author of the World Bee Day initiative and president of the Slovenia Bee Keepers’ Association, Boštjan Noč:“I believe that we all agree that every human being on this planet deserves food every day. We have to produce more food every day, and every day more food is dependent on pollinators – with honey bees in the lead. Talking about reducing global hunger without ensuring the conditions for the survival of bees and other pollinators would simply be like throwing sand in people’s eyes!”

Living in Spain and near the countryside, I have been lucky enough to meet local honey producer Matt Trigell. He produces 100% natural local honey in the Serrania de Ronda area in Andalucia. Having learned everything there is to know from an elderly local Spanish gentleman, Matt now distributes his pure and natural honey to the Costa del Sol area and beyond. He has even developed and created the world’s first honey “champagne” called Melipolini. I can say from personal experience that it’s a beautiful product. Light, sparkling and perfect for those summer evening parties (when we’re allowed!).

I spoke to Matt recently and asked him, in preparation for World Bee Day, to answer these two main questions for us: Why are bees so important? And, what can we do to help them?

Here are his answers:

Why are bees so important?

“As pollinators, bees play a part in every aspect of the ecosystem. They support the growth of trees, flowers, and other plants, which serve as food and shelter for creatures large and small. Bees
contribute to complex, interconnected ecosystems that allow a diverse number of different species to co-exist. Globally there are more honey bees than other types of bee and pollinating insects, so it is the world’s most important pollinator of food crops. It is estimated that one third of the food that we consume each day relies on pollination mainly by bees.

A recent study suggests that as many as 40% of the world’s insect species are in decline. Insects are facing extinction rates that are eight times higher than vertebrates. In Germany, scientists have
recorded losses of up to 75% of the total mass of insects in protected areas. Scientists believe the top causes of declines in insect diversity and abundance are, invasive species, pesticides and insecticides (which contain chemicals that can kill pollinators) and herbicides (that are actually used five times as much in farming as insecticides). These weed killers target a huge variety of the wild plants that bees need to forage.”

What can we do to help the bees?

“Every little helps. Planting bee-friendly flowers through the year which flower in different seasons in gardens or on balconies. Leaving a bowl of water full of pebbles out next to the flowers (especially in the summer). For people with open land, leave an untouched strip to grow wild flowers and maybe even consider letting a beekeeper keep some hives on the land in return for some honey.

Ideally each town’s council should put aside some rural land just outside the town for a bee society. This would massively help pollinate local crops, fruit and flowers and would also keep the bee
population at a healthy level.”

For more information on Matt Trigell and the work he does with bees, you can go to www.honeyandthrive.es as well as join Facebook group “The Bee Guru’s Apprentice”.

We did a little further research and found that bees love colourful flowers as well as flowers and plants that are rich in pollen. There are many lists with recommendations for flowers and plants that attract bees, so if you have room on your terrace or in your garden, consider planting some of the following:

Lavender (lavanda)

Catmint (menta de gato)

Rosemary (romero)

Primrose (primula)

Foxglove (dedalera)

Roses (rosales)

Fruit trees

Pumpkins and courgettes

Don’t forget that all orders on Eco Passion now come with a seed card so you can plant a few flowers on your terrace or garden to help the bees.

What will you be doing to raise awareness of the importance of bees on World Bee Day? Share your actions on socials and tag us @ecopassionspain or #ecopassionlife and we will say hola!

April 20, 2021

Sustainable Ways to Celebrate Mothers’ Day in Spain in 2021

Vanessa Byrne Green Living, Zero Waste Ideas mothers day, sustainable 0

Sunday 2^nd May 2021 is this year’s Mothers’ Day in Spain. I thought it would be fun to look at a few ways to celebrate in a sustainable way, without feeling the need to keep to traditions that may hurt the planet. Even if you don’t live in Spain, these ideas can apply to you wherever and whenever you celebrate Mothers’ Day. Here is our list of ideas to celebrate more sustainably:

Fresh flowers – are they the best idea?

Fresh cut flowers often come with a hefty carbon footprint. The majority of fresh flowers bought in Europe will come from The Netherlands, but many can come from Africa and South America too. In order to minimise your carbon footprint and ensure fair working conditions for workers, go to your local florist and speak to them to find out where their flowers come from. Try to choose those grown in Spain, as close to you as possible and ask for plastic-free packaging. And rather than cut flowers, you could consider buying a plant for your mum instead. If you can choose a plant like lavender or calendula, then you’ll be doing the bees a favour too. For the perfect zero waste solution, you could even buy or make a herb garden so your mum/family can cook with homegrown herbs. You don’t even need a garden, terrace or balcony to grow herbs, just a window! If your mum has a garden then a fruit tree is another very eco-friendly idea.

Buy a zero waste gift

These days it’s not difficult to find shops that stock sustainable products and zero waste or plastic-free gifts, both online and offline. Some ideas might include, vegan, cruelty free and plastic free cosmetics such as solid shampoo and conditioner, body creams or lip balm. You could also opt for plastic free bathroom accessories such as a luffa soap dish or sisal soap pouch to go with a natural and handmade soap. And if your mum is completely new to going zero waste then a bathroom starter pack would be ideal. I don’t know about you, but I think mums are much easier to buy for than dads! Other gift ideas include bags such as a cotton tote bag or a set of cotton bags for fruit and veg, wax wraps for the kitchen, a reusable bottle or stainless steel tin, or some of our natural and handmade kitchen cleaning products. The choices are endless and that’s just with Eco Passion! If you do buy a gift from us then each purchase currently comes with a ‘seed card’ so you can plant some flowers as well!

Of course, not all gifts need to be items or products, even if they are sustainable and eco-friendly. One of the best types of zero waste gifts is to spend time together at an event. At the moment we realise theatre visits or shows are not really an option, but there are some galleries open so have a look around in your area. Alternatively, you could arrange a class together like pottery, painting, yoga etc. there are some lovely outdoor classes running until restrictions are lifted, so again have a look in your local area and support local business.

If, like me, your mum lives in another country (or another province), then these options may not work for you, so an online chat with a glass of something may have to do.

Go for a meal in a vegetarian/vegan restaurant

This could be easy or difficult depending on whether a) you live anywhere close to any vegetarian restaurants and b) whether anyone in your family is vegetarian already or at least open to vegetarian (or vegan) food. If you get to choose the restaurant then do some research and see what you can find that is close to you. Most vegetarian restaurants will have something enticing even for the most avid meat eaters, and if you can go vegan for the day, even better! It will be a good chance to try something new and at the very least will be a great talking point. Of course, if you have a vegetarian or vegan family then even better! Support your local restaurant and enjoy your day!

However you choose to celebrate Mothers’ Day this year, give some thought as to how you can make it more sustainable, and keep the conversation of sustainability going!

March 22, 2021

15 Actions You Can Take Today for Earth Day

Vanessa Byrne Environment, Green Living Earth Day 0

As we approach Earth Day on 22nd April 2021, we have listed some actions you can take today to help the earth. Our awareness of global climate issues is gradually growing and each one of us can play our own part in shaping the future. Some days it feels like time is rapidly running out, other times it feels we might have a chance if we all act together. Have a look at our list and take action today so you can be a part of the change and make a difference.

Ask for greener energy.
Contact your energy supplier and ask what green energy they are using and find out whether you are paying for renewable energy or not. If your provider does not use renewable energy or green energy, consider switching to a green energy provider in Spain. We found this useful list of renewable energy providers in Spain
Plant flowers or herbs in your garden or terrace to attract bees.
Now is the perfect time of year to get planting. It doesn’t matter how much or how little space you have. I planted lavender in a small window box last year and this spring I have already seen some bees collecting the pollen. Every little helps. Here is a list of plants that are great for attracting bees.
Buy local and/or organic veg and buy in season.
When you buy local, you’re aiming to reduce the time from ‘farm to fork’ so that we can contribute to a lower carbon footprint or as is sometimes called ‘foodprint’. When you buy organic fruit and vegetables, you’re also helping to save the lives of bees and insects that would otherwise be killed off and which provide a vital part of the food chain in many delicate eco systems around the world. You also help prevent toxic chemicals leeching into soils and into rivers, waterways and finally, the ocean. And when you buy in season you can also help contribute to a lower carbon footprint of your food because it is likely that the seasonal fruit and veg has not had to be grown in artificial conditions or shipped hundreds or thousands of miles to reach you.
If you’re not already vegan, can you manage a Vegan Viernes (Friday)?
The idea of Meatless Monday became popular in the UK a while back, but I challenge you to have a Vegan Viernes every week. We found this incredible Spanish website for vegan recipes!
Calculate your own carbon footprint using this multilingual tool.
You can choose what language you view it in and enter the country you live in, and then enter the amounts you use over an average year (you might need to refer to a few energy/utility bills to get accurate data). You are then offered ways in which you can offset your carbon. https://www.carbonfootprint.com/
Reduce your water consumption.
Take shorter showers, save water from the tap when waiting for it to get warm, or use a water-saving attachment on your tap or shower head. With all the rain we have had in Spain lately, hopefully you have been saving water in your garden or terrace so you don’t need to water your plants with tap water!
Slow Fashion.
Clear out your unwanted clothes and take them to the charity shop or clothes recycling bin. Enjoy the space and if you desperately need to replace something, buy second hand or from an ethical producer. Last year I managed to go 10 months without buying anything new, and even then, the only new clothes I bought were underwear. Obviously, this is not the kind of item you can buy second hand, but you can definitely look for ethical suppliers and more eco-friendly materials such as bamboo or organic cotton, as well as something made in Spain and with ethical work practices.
Pledge to support a conservation charity.
Make a donation once a month, even the cost of a coffee or lunch will help if you do it on a regular basis. We donate to Sea Shepherd every month in order to help them tackle illegal fishing and poaching in the seas and oceans of the globe. There are many options when it comes to conservation, from reforestation and protection of the soil to ocean plastic, climate education or supporting campaigns for ethical farming and working conditions. Do your research and find an organisation that resonates with you.
Carry a reusable water bottle with you wherever you go (and enjoy 20% off at the moment!).
Download the refill app to check which places will be happy to refill the bottle for you. We added the water dispenser machine in Manilva, Málaga recently but would love to see more bars in Spain taking part.
Take part in a local beach clean up or tree planting day.
In our area you can join organisations like Mi Moana (Mijas, Málaga) and Plastic Free Seas who have a base in UK as well as Calahonda, Málaga.
Attend your local artisan market.
Support small businesses and buy handmade and plastic-free cosmetics or other eco-friendly products. We will be attending our first one of the year on Sunday 28^th March at The Farm in Marbella, come and check it out.
Look for and sign petitions in your country about climate action and plastic pollution.
If you have signed petitions like this in the past from Greenpeace or Avaast or Change.org etc. then you will likely have regular requests for your signature on various green campaigns that need our support in order to make things happen at governmental level. It’s a really simple action that you can do from your home or desk and only takes a couple of minutes of your time.
Educate yourself!
Read blogs and books on climate action and green issues in your country. Knowledge is power and you might get your friends and family thinking too. There are so many great writers out there talking about green issues, sustainability, zero waste living, veganism, plastic pollution, renewable energy, climate change and our natural environment. Do a quick search on Ecosia (the green search engine) and subscribe to the newsletters that really interest you.
Conversely, number 14 is to do the opposite!
Did you know our digital footprint also has a hugely damaging effect on the environment? The more people that are online and the more data that is stored, the more energy is used in storing it. So, one action you can take today is actually to delete any emails you’re needlessly hanging onto (especially in your ‘sent’ items, it could be tens of thousands) and unsubscribe from the emails you no longer read.
Organise your own clean up for Earth Day this April 2021 and get your event on the global map: https://cleanup.earthday.org/

We hope you enjoyed reading the list and feel inspired to take action on at least some of them, if not all! Wishing everyone strength and inspiration for Earth Day this year.

March 21, 2021

Eco Friendly Products: Stainless Steel Reusable Bottles

Vanessa Byrne Eco-Friendly Products reusable bottle, stainless steel, stainless steel bottle 0

As the third wave of covid19 starts to ease, and spring is now here, more and more people are venturing out, and the temperatures are on the rise. Now is the time to get back on track with your zero waste or sustainable lifestyle. Don’t forget to stay hydrated and carry your own stainless steel reusable bottle with you. There is no need to buy disposable plastic bottles when you have your own reusable bottle. Many bars and cafes are also happy to refill with tap water now, so there’s no excuse. You can check out this refill app to see where will support you with free tap water.

Our Qwetch stainless steel reusable bottles are made from high quality stainless steel (18/8) and are the ideal way to cut out the plastic in your life. We offer two types: the double walled thermos and the single wall bottle.

Which one is right for me?

Both types of reusable bottle are lightweight and strong and being stainless steel means the bottle won’t take on flavours or change the taste of your water. The single-wall stainless steel bottle is a non-insulated product so it is not advisable to use with hot liquids as the bottle will become hot to the touch.

The neck size is wide so that it’s easier to clean and also to add a couple of ice cubes for keeping drinks cool. These are not thermos bottles so won’t keep your drink cold for hours, but with a couple of ice cubes in then drinks can stay cooler longer. We offer a size of 500ml or 1000ml in plain brushed stainless steel, a simple and stylish design with a handle at the top that you can use to attach the bottle to a bag.

The thermos bottles are double-walled and will keep drinks hot for 12 hours and cold for 24 hours. We offer them in a striking fuscia pink colour as well as a cool khaki colour, which also has a matte finish for extra durability. We offer these bottles in 500ml size only.

Both types of our stainless steel reusable bottles are perfect for while you’re out and about, camping, at the beach, going to work, school or a day trip out. If you carry one with you all the time, then you’ll never have to buy bottled water again, you can fill up from home, and while you’re out. It’s one very easy way to prevent using plastic bottles and is another achievement on your zero waste journey or steps to a more sustainable lifestyle.

The best part is they are currently on sale with 20% off all stainless steel bottles – take a look today!

February 15, 2021

What is Zero Waste Living?

Vanessa Byrne Green Living, Zero Waste Ideas zero waste, zero waste lifestyle, zero waste living 0

Zero waste living and the concept of zero waste is gaining in popularity all over the world, but what does it really mean? What does it involve and how do you do it?

The idea of zero waste or living a zero waste lifestyle is essentially to be able to live in such a way where you don’t create any waste at all. It covers all areas of our lives and it’s down to the individual as to how far they extend the concept. For some it might be easier to focus on one area of their lifestyle over another, whereas other people might be able to apply a zero waste lifestyle to many different areas of their life.

How hard is it to go zero waste?

If you’re familiar with Lauren Singer from the US blog Trash is for Tossers and her mason jar waste, then you’ll know that it’s possible to generate very little rubbish or waste if we really stop to think about it and change our habits in all areas of our lives. Lauren started her zero waste journey in 2012 and was able to fit 3 years of waste into a 16oz mason jar. “I do compost and recycle but only as a last resort – I try to avoid packaging at all costs,” she says.

However, for many people it can be a real challenge to apply the zero waste lifestyle to all areas of their lives, which we at Eco Passion can completely relate to, but starting that thought process can make it easier for us to change things and shift over time to a more zero waste way of life. By doing so we’ll not only generate less waste but we’ll generate less clutter in our homes too, which has many documented mental health benefits.

According to Mike Jones from A Conscious Rethink “Living a minimalist lifestyle does great things for your mental state. Minimalism gives you the time, space, clarity, and freedom to cultivate your true self and fully engage with everyday life, but it can do even more than that.” So the two concepts can go hand in hand; while trying to do right by the environment, we can also improve our everyday lives.

So where do we start?

There are so many ways to get started with a zero waste lifestyle but here’s our top picks of places to start:

Buy fresh produce from shops where you can take your own containers or bags

When buying fruit, veg and bread in supermarkets or smaller local shops, it’s a great idea to carry reusable bags with you, there are many types of cotton or mesh bags on the market. But what about your fresh goods like meat or cheese? Our suggestion would be to use a deli counter in your local shop that allows you to bring your own containers or bags so you don’t have to use any plastic or even waxed paper. Admittedly this is easier if you’re vegetarian or vegan! For milk you could learn how to make your own plant milk.

Buy from zero waste shops, refill shops or dried goods shops

Unless you live in a city or large town, this might be a tricky one, but many smaller towns do have markets where you can buy loose dried goods (such as nuts, chick peas, lentils etc.) with no packaging and no plastic. The aim is to avoid all food packaging where you possibly can, and oftentimes this means buying food like rice, pasta and grains in bulk from markets or shops that are packaging free or where you can take your own containers. If you’re lucky you might also have a shop that can refill your shampoo or cleaning products for you if you take your own containers. Check your local facebook groups for advice on where to shop zero waste (or “a granel”) in your area.

Carry a reusable bottle with you

Taking your own reusable bottle with you while out and about will avoid the unnecessary purchasing of drinks if you get thirsty. Many cafes and bars will now happily refill your water bottle for you and there is even an app that shows you all the places where establishments are happy to do so. Eating in at cafes and restaurants will also avoid using any disposable cups, crockery or packaging too.

Reuse, repurpose, repair and shop second hand

We’ve grouped these together as they all relate to the zero waste concept of not buying something you really don’t need. Can you get what you need by reusing something at home? Jars for food storage, old clothes that can be cut up and used for cloths or rags for cleaning. The possibilities are endless and you don’t need to be a pro with a sewing machine. If you have a garden or terrace there are tons of household items that can be used for growing plants from seed. Do you know a local clothes-maker who can repair your favourite clothes? Or a cobbler who can re-heel your favourite boots or shoes? And if you’re in need of a bit of retail therapy, see if you can grab a bargain at a local charity shop, or organise your own clothing swap event (when safe to do so). There are some items of course that can’t always be bought second hand, so if you’re going to buy new items that you really need then try to use ethical, ecological and plastic-free brands.

Recycling and composting

When striving for a truly zero waste lifestyle, you’ll need to know what you can and can’t recycle and where you can safely compost any food waste. Again, this will vary greatly depending on where you live. We visited our local recycling plant to learn more about the process of recycling and what can successfully and efficiently be recycled. Find out where yours is and contact them for more information or a chance to visit to learn more. When it comes to composting, you could try doing it at home even if you only have a terrace or balcony. There are a lot of helpful articles and videos online to help with home composting, but it can take some time to perfect. Our local recycling plant doesn’t have an industrial composting facility, so I have tried to compost at home, but I am still experimenting! Be aware that when some packaging says it can be composted or is biodegradable – this is often only at industrial levels, so it’s best to avoid it all together if you can.

Go plastic free in your bathroom

Packaging on cosmetics and toiletries such as bath and body products are often designed to be thrown away after use. In order to not generate this type of waste, it’s a good idea to switch to plastic-free products as these often come with very minimal packaging, if any at all. Solid soap and solid shampoos are usually only wrapped in paper or card which can be recycled, or you could learn to make your own. Some ecological markets will have stalls where you can buy solid soap or shampoo with no packaging at all, so look out for those in your area. Items like toothpaste and toothbrushes can also be plastic free. There are many natural toothpaste options available in glass jars that can be reused, and there are lots of bamboo toothbrushes to choose from these days too.

I hope these suggestions help you get started, even if it’s just thinking about the ways you can implement a zero waste lifestyle, your actions will soon follow and you can start to apply it to various areas of your lifestyle step by step. For more ideas and inspiration, take a look at our guide: 10 Steps to a More Sustainable Lifestyle

January 30, 2021

How to Have a Zero Waste Valentine’s Day

Vanessa Byrne Green Living, Zero Waste Ideas 0

One of the big intentions of a zero waste or sustainable lifestyle is not buying more than you absolutely need. Consumerism and over consumption are a big part of the issues our planet and environment are facing. However, buying gifts on Valentine’s Day for the ones you love doesn’t have to be commercial or unnecessary. Here are some ideas for a zero waste Valentine’s Day.

Experiences

In these strange and difficult times of Covid19 it might feel harder to plan a good experience to share with your eco-conscious partner. We know we can’t go to the theatre or a gig for example, but it doesn’t have to end there. Zero waste experiences can include all sorts and depending on your region, some venues or events might still be open. You could look for an interactive museum or an exhibition or art gallery that interests your partner. If you’re in a lockdown or more restricted area by mid-February, then a simple hike or picnic on the beach or in the countryside can still represent a special occasion. After all, spending time together in nature has got to be a win-win. And the beauty of living in Spain means we have a pretty good chance of decent weather. If you opt for a romantic picnic, you could prepare some special homemade sweets and cakes or hide handwritten love notes into the food parcels or containers. Why not wrap a gift such as a reusable bottle or stainless steel straws, or even these super cute bamboo sporks. Use your imagination to turn a picnic into a personalised treat for the one you love.

Food

If you’re unable to get out into nature for a picnic, then make time to have a sit-down meal together at home and really go to town on personalising the experience. We all know that takeaway food can be a huge culprit for plastic and waste so cook something from scratch. You could even go to a local organic market together and choose what to buy as part of the event. Decorate the table with plastic-free decorations such as pinecones, painted pebbles or dried flowers and handmake a card or gift. One of the most common gifts on Valentine’s Day is chocolate. If your partner is a chocolate lover, opt for Fairtrade, certified Organic and if possible, vegan chocolate to treat them. Many eco-friendly options these days also come with plastic-free packaging. Buy local where you can and support small business too.

Jewellery

This has to be one of the most common gift choices for Valentine’s Day, but how can we be sure our jewellery purchases are ethical, sustainable, zero waste and plastic free? One of the best ways is to look up smaller, local jewellers in your area and simply give them a call or get in touch and chat to them about it. Most will be happy to share their eco-credentials with you, especially when it comes to the ethical mining of materials. If you buy local, then it’s usually pretty easy to request something to come packaged plastic-free too. We’re so lucky in my area (Manilva, Málaga, Spain) to have ethically-minded jewellery maker Tracey Graham. She has a range of pieces that use eco-silver (100% recycled silver) and are packaged fully plastic-free for delivery in Spain or further afield.

Online classes

Where before you might have considered taking up tango or watercolour painting together, for now these types of classes or events have to be online. I recently took part in a cocktail making evening with the brilliant Southside Bars. Based in Ibiza and UK, they tailor-make the class to your needs and send you a box ahead of time so you have all the equipment and ingredients that you need. You could request for the contents to be plastic-free and you could source the ingredients as locally as possible to you. It’s a fun evening for couple or a group. Other online class ideas can include cooking, yoga, painting, languages, origami and crafts of all kinds. Get searching for a zero-waste online class to thrill your partner.

Flowers

The top three most popular gifts for Valetine’s Day are chocolates, flowers and jewellery, so it would be no surprise if you’ve considered flowers as a gift before, and, on the surface, they would seem like a plastic-free option. But, they are often not very sustainable at all. Fresh cut flowers are often imported from far afield (largest exporters of cut flowers after The Netherlands are Columbia and Ecuador) so carbon emissions will be high not only from production but transportation too. The other main issue with mass-grown flowers is that they are often heavily treated with pesticides. These can be harmful not only for those receiving the gift, but also for workers – not to mention the toxic impact on water ways and land in our natural environment. Finally, it’s the packaging that is often a problem with cut flowers. If you have been lucky enough to find a local florist selling locally grown organic flowers, then hopefully they will consider sustainable packaging too. Recycled paper would be your best option, and even better would be to buy from a farmers’ market with no packaging and wrap them yourself with something reusable or even newspaper for an eco-chic look.

Books

If your partner likes books then you’ve got an easy task ahead of you. There are so many books on the market that teach about how to live more sustainably or more “green” or give you ideas on how to have a zero waste home. One of these would make a great gift and our favourites at Eco Passion are:

The Sustainable(ish) Living Guide by Jen Gale
Is it Really Green? by Georgina Wilson-Powell
Zero Waste Home by Bea Johnson

Hopefully this list and these ideas will help you to consider eco-friendly gifts for the love of your life (even if that’s yourself!) and the beauty is that all these ideas can themselves be recycled for birthdays, anniversaries or any occasion you like.

Tell us in the comments how you plan to enjoy a zero waste Valentine’s Day this year. Feel free to share this post in your networks too.

January 21, 2021

What is the best solid shampoo bar for me?

Vanessa Byrne Eco-Friendly Products, Zero Waste Ideas 0

In the early days of Eco Passion, while researching and trying various brands of solid shampoos ourselves, we decided to go with this range of solid shampoos and a conditioner from the UK’s Funky Soap Shop.

They are all 100% natural, vegan and not tested on animals and are handmade in London. They were chosen based on their value for money and with the intention to cater for all hair types. We tried a few different types and consulted with our customers to come up with three types to choose from.

These are:

Apricot Kernal Shampoo – for normal hair
With castor oil, apricot kernal oil, shea and coco butter, this shampoo will condition, cleanse, nourish and thicken hair and has a beautiful fruity smell.

Tea Tree & Neem Oil Shampoo – for greasy hair
The tea tree and neem oils help with oily scalps and scalp conditions due to their antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties. The shea butter and olive oil will smooth and condition hair too.

Acai Berry Shampoo – for dry hair
The acai berry helps strengthen and repair brittle hair while the antioxidents and zinc found in them can protect hair and skin by restoring the natural oils. Coconut and grapeseed oil are used for extra softness.

Solid Conditioner – for normal hair
While each hair type is so different, we opted to offer the one conditioner to cover all. With its orange oil and argan oil it smells divine, tames curls and leaves hair soft and smooth.

We have now added two new solid shampoos made with soapnut extract for cleansing, by Living Naturally. These shampoos are also 100% natural, vegan, palm oil free and handmade in the UK. They also come with a cute cotton sack which can be used to hang the soap bar up to dry it out between washes. The two types we currently stock are:

Lemon & Avocado – normal to greasy hair

The bar is fragranced with Lemon, May Chang & Ylang which are balancing and will control excess oil production, as well as being rejuvenating and a very uplifting fragrance.
Suitable for all hair/skin types, especially for problem, sensitive and combination hair/skin types.

Hemp & Patchouli – normal to dry hair

Scented with cedarwood, geranium and patchouli and hand crafted with certified organic hemp oil, this solid shampoo bar suits thick, curly or dry hair and skin prone to dryness or inflammation.

We recommend that you use a soap dish or rack to ensure you dry the bar out between washes to help prolong its life. With correct use, and using it every day, the bars should last approx. 2 months. If you don’t wash your hair every day then they will last even longer.

Remember that when using natural and solid shampoos, for some people there is an adjustment period when your hair gets used to the change from commercial shampoos and chemicals to natural soaps and oils. During this period you may choose to use a rinse to eliminate any soapy feeling left on your hair. When lathering up you will also need to use more water than you may be used to. Consult our blog page for more advice on solid shampoos and how to use them, and, have patience while you find a solid shampoo to suit you.

Tell us about your experience with solid shampoos via Facebook, Instagram or Twitter

January 19, 2021

10 Simple Steps to a More Sustainable Lifestyle

Vanessa Byrne Environment, Green Living, Zero Waste Ideas 0

The new year is a great time to get your eco intentions into action. Maybe you already started the year with good intentions but they have slipped (I hear this is common!) or maybe, like me, you don’t set strict goals but just raise your awareness of your actions and try to improve gradually on a daily basis. I have been having more and more fully vegan days and intend for those to become the norm and non-vegan days to be less and less frequent.

If you need some help and some guidance on the ways that you can live a more sustainable lifestyle and reduce your impact on the planet, then we invite you to download our free guide to help you along the way. You can complete the steps in your own time and you can check them off as you go (some will naturally take longer to “complete” than others as it’s an ongoing change in lifestyle you’re really after), but we would still love you to share your progress with us as you go along.

Here is a snippet of the first 3 steps of our 10 step guide to a more sustainable lifestyle. To find out in more detail and follow the rest of the steps, go ahead and download it.

You might already be doing several of these, or you might have just started out. Either way we hope you will gain some inspiration and ideas on how to further reduce your impact on the planet and live a more sustainable lifestyle. If we all share these with the people we know, we really can make a collective difference:

Stop buying bottled water – Plastic water bottles are hugely wasteful to produce, consuming massive quantities of oil and water to produce and most of them ending up in landfill. It’s easy to stop buying bottled water by simply drinking water from the tap, using a water filter if you need to, and taking a reusable water bottle with you when you’re out and about.

Take reusable bags to the shops – Millions of plastic bags each year end up in landfill, breaking down to small, toxic particles which are bad for the environment. Many end-up in our oceans, and it’s estimated that 100,000 marine animals die each year due to plastic bags in our oceans. So, stopping using plastic bags is one easy change to make. Reuse any you have until they break, recycle them properly and then purchase a few reusable bags. Get into the habit of taking them to the shops by leaving them in the boot of the car, or by the door and they will last you for years.

Reduce your meat intake – According to Greenpeace, mass farming of cows, pigs and chickens generates as much greenhouse gas emissions as all cars, trucks and automobiles combined and we know the meat industry destroys vast amounts of forests per year for grazing pastures. We recommend becoming vegetarian, vegan or reducing the level of meat in your diet, by just a few meals per week, and encouraging others to do the same.

You can get the full 10 STEP guide here and keep it with you to refer back to each time you want to focus on another area that you can improve or to get more ideas and inspiration.

Print out the checklist at the end, put it on your fridge or in your kitchen/bathroom/office – somewhere you will see it plenty.

Share your progress on social media by tagging us (@ecopassionspain on Facebook/Instagram/Twitter or hashtag #ecopassionlife).

Feel free to share the link with your friends and family too or link them to this article. We can’t wait to see how everyone is doing. Good luck!

December 1, 2020

5 Ways to Have a Plastic-free Christmas

Vanessa Byrne Green Living, Zero Waste Ideas 0

Christmas can be a difficult time to avoid plastic, there are so many temptations and habits that we are used to, but, if you’ve been conscious about your waste and your use of plastic for a while, you will have hopefully been starting to think of ways to keep waste to a minimum at Christmas time too. In case you need some early inspiration on how to have a plastic-free Christmas, have a look at these ideas:

1. Gifts

Giving time and thought to your purchases this year can make all the difference when trying to aim for a zero waste or plastic-free Christmas. There are so many great ways you can avoid unnecessary plastic when buying gifts and you can reduce your carbon footprint along the way too. For adults who like toiletries, opt for solid soaps, shampoos and even lotion bars and try to go to markets (restrictions permitting!) where you can buy locally made products, you can complement these with accessories like natural loofah or wooden soap dishes. Alternatively, give an experience gift such as a spa treatment or tickets to the theatre, or even better, make a donation to charity or sponsor something/someone. From donkeys to guide dogs, there are plenty of options for animal-lovers and plenty of humanitarian charities who will benefit from increased donations and sponsorships at this time of year.

2. Wrapping

Remember the massive bin bag of wrapping paper your household can accumulate just on Christmas day? It is thought that in the UK alone the amount of wrapping paper used (and then thrown away) is enough to wrap around the equator 9 times! (227,000 miles) And that’s just the UK… Add to that the plastic bags that are often used to put the waste in and you start to see how easily this waste can accumulate. When using wrapping paper, the ones that are entirely made from paper (ideally recycled!) and don’t have any additives are best. If you do want to use wrapping paper, then opt for the most natural ones that can be recycled when used and avoid plasticised ribbon or bows too. Another idea is to wrap your presents in used newspaper or magazine pages for a funky twist, and instead of sellotape, use jute string or strips of fabric from old clothes that can be cut into strands. But most of all, ask the recipient of your gift to be thoughtful about how they use the wrapping and ask them to re-use or recycle as best they can.

3. Decorations

While the decorations aisles in all the shops can tempt you into upgrading your tree adornments or changing the colour scheme this year, why not opt for wooden, recycled, homemade or even edible tree decorations and handmade paper ones for the ceiling. There are a million posts and videos online to help you get inspiration and if you have children, what better way to get prepared for Christmas by having a craft session together and teaching them why you are making eco-friendly decorations and not buying plastic. Some of our favourite tree decorations are ones we have been given by others who have handmade them – they also make excellent gifts.

4. Toys

If, like me, you have a son who loves Lego, it can be really difficult to avoid plastic when children are young. Coupled with electronic devices and games and even many board games and craft kits coming with plastic pieces or wrapped in plastic. It seems like an impossible feat to achieve a plastic-free Christmas for little ones. However, you could aim to get a lot of gifts like these second-hand. Many items like Lego and board games can be bought on local ‘for sale’ online groups or via Ebay or other online second-hand sites. If everyone did this more then the demand -> production -> waste would all reduce. And for more eco-alternatives for Christmas you could consider getting wooden toys, books (second hand even better) or fabric toys well as those which use solar power or are made from recycled materials.

5. Food

This is another area where it can seem tricky to avoid plastic and too much waste in general. I read recently that each year in the UK 17.2 million sprouts are thrown away – begs the question as to why on earth people buy them in the first place. And this is not to mention the turkeys and waste from mince pie packets etc… So let’s stop and have a think about the quantities we’re buying as well as the packaging our food is coming in. It’s becoming more and more well known that the meat industry has a huge impact on our environment. If you or your family are not ready to ditch the meat from your dinner table, then at the very least try to source your meat from local farms and producers who will have a minimal impact on the environment and who have reared their animals in the best possible way. Avoid supermarket and factory farmed meat.

When it comes to the vegetables and trimmings, don’t overdo it on the sprouts (no one really likes them anyway!) and visit your greengrocer or local market to ensure you can buy the veg loose and not wrapped in unnecessary plastic. Try to also get locally-grown produce and support your local organic farms where possible. If you’re buying sauces and condiments – get glass jars that can easily be reused or recycled and if you have the time to make things from scratch, you’re much more likely to reduce the packaging waste so often found on sweet treats. Is it really necessary to buy those huge tubs of individually wrapped chocolates? They used to come in tins but seem now to be in plastic tubs – so opt for Fairtrade chocolate alternatives that are wrapped in paper or foil which you can easily break into chunks and serve in a re-used tin or wooden tray.

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We would love to hear (and see) how you are getting on with managing a plastic-free or zero waste Christmas – so please tell us in the comments and send us photos on facebook, twitter or instagram.

November 24, 2020

How to buy sustainable gifts this Christmas

Vanessa Byrne Green Living, Zero Waste Ideas christmas, plastic free, sustainable christmas, zero waste christmas 0

This year has been quite a different year in many ways, but one of the things that people have experienced, especially with the restrictions in November, is that they have less opportunity to get to physical stores to buy gifts.

Many are turning to online shopping instead, and, while it can be tempting to get multiple items from one online marketplace, do we really want to be supporting the commercial giants this year when so many small businesses have suffered? As an alternative, here are some tips on how to buy more consciously this year and in doing so you can not only support small and local business, but you can achieve less waste and, more than likely, less plastic too.

Buy experiences

Did you know that (according to www.asustainablelife.co.uk) approx. 81 million unwanted presents are received each year, and of those, one in ten will end up in landfill! Avoid unwanted gifts ending up in landfill buy buying experiences instead. There are so many options out there once you start to look and all on our doorstep here in Andalucia, Spain. Everything from Alpaca Walks to Hammam Vouchers, tailor-made guided walks or nature retreats, sky diving simulators or even book a whale or dolphin-watching trip ready for the summer. Almost anything you can think of will make a superb alternative to a physical present and you’ll be zero waste and plastic free at the same time!

Make charity donations or arrange adoptions

Similar to experiences, a gift like this will avoid unwanted presents being bought and potentially later discarded. If you know people who love certain animals, you could arrange an adoption or sponsorship of an animal, some ideas might be: adopting a donkey from El Refugio del Burrito in Mijas or further afield you can adopt an orangutan in Borneo. You could also donate to a charity the value you may have spent on a present. Some of the larger charities have well-established gift giving products where you do receive a small token in return, but it can sometimes be nicer to give to the smaller charities that might be even closer to your heart.

Attend classes or activities

When restrictions are lifted it will be easier to fulfill a gift idea like this, but it’s something to think about even if you don’t manage it this year. Once you start looking you will find a multitude of opportunities to attend a class or activity with the receiver of your gift. You might want to attend a cooking class, a pottery class, a painting class or start that new Zumba class you’ve been meaning to try. Buying that experience for someone will enable you to have fun together and share memories instead of items. You might step it up a gear and head out go-karting or dune buggy driving or even horse-riding. Or make it cultural and spend the afternoon at an art gallery, a theatre show or simply head to the cinema. Throw in lunch after and you’ll be creating memories instead of waste ?

Any of these ideas are sure to be well-received and it’s something we think people should do a lot more often. The idea, experience or entrance tickets can be presented on paper as something physical to receive if necessary, and then you can always print a photo from your experience together to frame after the event too. We encourage you to get thinking about your sustainable and zero waste gift ideas this Christmas.

September 18, 2020

World Clean Up Day 2020

Vanessa Byrne Environment Beach Clean, Lets Do It, World Cleanup Day 0

This year World Clean Up Day falls on Saturday 19^th September and will see 180 countries uniting across the world to clean up the planet in one single day. The movement began in Estonia in 2008 and in the first year they managed to co-ordinate 50,000 people to clean up the country from trash in just five hours.

Twelve years later and the global movement is still growing, with numbers reaching 21 million volunteers coming together across the globe to show their unity and shared beliefs that our planet needs our help. Last year in 2019 volunteers who care about the environment came together to help clear up litter, plastic pollution and mismanaged waste from rivers, towns, forests and beaches.

World Cleanup Day harnesses the power of people around the world to achieve incredible things by coming together. Its beauty lies in cooperation and collaboration: building bridges between disparate communities, including all levels of society – from citizens to business, to government.

Driven by the organisation ‘Let’s Do It World’, the unity of over 150 countries is coordinated and guided by leaders in each country who head up teams of their own to mobilise and encourage participation. Many are volunteers working day and night to address the issues that are most pressing for them. LDIW provides guidance, advice and leadership skills for anyone willing to commit time to the cause. The incredible people leading these 180 countries are nothing short of being heroes of our time.

It seems that it has taken David Attenborough, Greta Thunberg and brutal images of birds and turtles strangled by plastic, to wake up to what’s surrounding us. So instead of feeling helpless, we can all do our small part. Getting involved in World Clean Up day means positive collaboration, the spirit of unity and most importantly, getting something done for the planet and the realization that we need planet Earth with its resources more than it needs us.

Let’s Do It World has five main features it relies on:

Cooperation: we are open to individuals and organizations from the public sector, corporations and civil society who believe that waste does not belong in nature. “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”
Positivity: we look for solutions, instead of pointing fingers. We focus on creating positive change and on finding solutions to “trash blindness”.
Leadership – changes happen in people and through people. Anyone can be a leader and develop as a leader. We are looking to empower a new generation of leaders that aims to create a waste-free world by working locally and cooperating globally.
Technology: we are adding smart tech and engineering ingenuity to motivated volunteer power.
Fun: mobilizing millions of people around the world to clean their communities and have fun while doing it is instrumental to the solution and to the effort to keep our planet clean.

This year the Eco Passion team has organised a beach clean-up in our local area of Casares Costa (check our Facebook event page for details).

Why don’t you find out if there is a clean up planned near you?

Here are some useful resources and links:

https://www.worldcleanupday.org/about/

https://letsdoitspain.org/

https://letsdoitfoundation.org/

July 12, 2020

Eco-Friendly Products: Biodegradable doggie poo bags

Vanessa Byrne Eco-Friendly Products 0

What you need to know about our biodegradable dog poo or dog waste bags.

Some of you may know that both Steph and myself at Eco Passion both have dogs and we met while walking them. As any good dog owner will know, you tend to have pockets full of poo bags to collect the delightful droppings. Some of you might use the little rolls from the household or pet shops, others re-use bags from the supermarket or pharmacy but one way or another we usually have pockets of plastic and we tend to get through quite a few!

From our visit to the local Urbaser recycling plant, we learned that when it comes to dog waste, the organic matter is removed in a special tubular machine but the plastic cannot be recycled and so will end up in landfill. One bag a day over an average 10 year lifetime of a dog will mean each dog owner could contribute 3,650 bags to landfill, double it for twice a day or two dogs and we’re soon reaching a roomful. That’s not to mention the bags that are left falling out of bins or under bushes or on the beach, ready to be swept into the ocean to potentially cause harm to ocean and marine life.

We wanted to research some eco-friendly and plastic-free alternatives to the prolific poo bag so we started to look into various products.

It’s pretty tricky to avoid plastic or plastic-style bags. There are paper ones on the market, but they are not cheap and the manufacturer didn’t respond to us about wholesale options, though personally I like the idea of these 🙂

We also contacted a few British sellers of eco poo bags, but a lot of them are manufactured in China. And others were made from oxo-biodegradable material which only breaks the plastic down into smaller particles quicker by using an additive, rather than allowing it to biodegrade altogether.

Then finally we found the perfect solution, a bag made in Spain from tapioca starch. The bags are certified biodegradable and compostable.

Being compostable, however, doesn’t mean you can throw them in your compost bin and they will dissolve, and we don’t have industrial composting facilities here, so, there is actually every likelihood they will still end up landfilled if you dispose of them properly in a regular bin or dog waste bin.

But, the benefits are:
1) They won’t contaminate a plastic recycling batch as they are already too soiled to be recycled
2) The procedure to manufacture them in the first place is far less polluting than plastic production and doesn’t use a finite source as the crops can be re-grown. Plant-based materials such as these can use 60% less energy to manufacture than plastic
3) If they end up in the environment and not in a bin, they will eventually biodegrade fully, at a rate dependent on the conditions, minimising risk to wildlife and ocean life.

They retail at an affordable price and are packaging free so minimal waste there as well. You can order online with free local collection or delivery between Sotogrande (Cádiz) and Estepona (Málaga).

Order your biodegradable poo bags online today and let us know how you get on!

June 1, 2020

Visiting our local recycling centre – Part 2 (By Melissa Vaughn)

Vanessa Byrne Environment, Green Living Recycling 0

Following on from Part 1, in this section we dive more deeply into the main areas of advice we were given about how to minimize household waste, as well as exactly what can be recycled and where various items should go:

Here are the most important eco-friendly points that we learned during our trip.

We all need to look at REDUCING our use of consumables (so that waste bins fill up more slowly), REUSE what you can (to maximize product life), and RECYCLE the rest (so it can be returned into the system in a new form, where possible).
Urbaser has some pointers for us in its documentary video: write on both sides of jotter paper, switch off lights when not in use, take a shower instead of a bath, switch off taps and stop them from dripping water when they are off, don’t treat the w.c. as if it were a waste bin (only flush toilet paper – nothing else!), buy products in family-sized containers, only buy what is necessary and justified, use public transport, maximize natural light in the home, rather than switching a light on, encourage friends and family to do the same.
Please be mindful of which street bin is allocated to which designated item for recycling. If you are unsure which Spanish street-container the item should go in – don’t guess – put it into the large ‘general’ bins that normally have a lid you raise up by hand or by using a foot pedal.
Recycling items is vital to safeguard our planet’s resources and YES, the government really DO recycle your used items! Some people believe it all ends up in landfill, no matter what, so separating items for recycling is a waste of time. This is utterly false and was proved to us at the plant.

Here is a breakdown of what you can put into each container:

PAPER AND CARDBOARD – ‘PAPEL’ CONTAINER

Paper and cardboard goes in the BLUE AND GREY CONTAINER with the high, narrow slot marked PAPEL. Put old newspapers, magazines, cardboard boxes in here. NO EMPTY MILK/JUICE CARTONS should go into the ‘Papel’ paper recycling – they are classed as ‘TetraPaks’ and must go in the Yellow bin! Please disassemble cardboard boxes before feeding them through the slot. It is really important that only paper and cardboard go into this container so please do not bag up your paper in a plastic carrier bag and throw that into the container! If a dirty ‘foreign’ item like some old eggs, plate leftovers, milk or oil is misplaced into this paper recycling container, it can stain and contaminate the contents of the container RUINING THE ENTIRE LOAD!
NO DIRTY PAPER! Please remember that things like used tissues, used kitchen paper and cardboard boxes that are dirty with earth, oil, sand etc. should NOT be placed into the Papel paper recycling. Only clean paper and cardboard is acceptable in the Papel container. Put used and dirty paper products into the standard general bin (flip top or push pedal kind). This includes used items like: paper handkerchiefs, kitchen roll, napkins (serviettes), tracing paper, plastic paper. None of these are recyclable
WRAPPING PAPER RECYCLING – At times such as Christmas, in terms of recycling wrapping paper – you can do a quick test to see if wrapping paper you are about to put into the paper recycling is indeed recyclable: take the discarded wrap and scrunch it into a ball. If it stays in a ball it is paper and can go in paper recycling. If, after you scrunch the wrapping into a tight ball in your hand, it unravels, falling back into shape then it is plastic coated or has plastic in it and it CANNOT go into the paper recycling!

GLASS – ‘VIDRIO’ CONTAINER
Generally, this is a GREEN, ROUND-TOPPED CONTAINER WITH A SMALL OPENING UP HIGH. Glass is a commodity that can be infinitely recycled – your used glass items can be melted down and reprocessed, again and again. Manilva has received an award for being one of the top-most performing municipalities with a glass recycling average of higher than normal. So the message is getting out there! Good news… HOWEVER, it is important to remember that, in Spanish the words: ‘cristal’ and ‘vidrio’ mean different things, however in English we just use the word ‘glass’ and not all ‘glass’ is equal! Vidrio can be processed. Cristal cannot! It may look the same to our eyes but these are different things. If you have a pane of glass (cristal) you are replacing in your house, then the old one can NOT go into glass recycling, nor can a cracked mirror (also cristal) etc.
YES, PLEASE RECYCLE: used items such as old jam jars, jars that contained legumes, vegetables etc. or glass containers from desserts/yoghurts and so on, these can be recycled. As a lot of water is used in the cleaning process, please DO rinse your glass items out before you pop them into the glass recycling bin.
REMOVE THE LID AND RECYCLE THAT TOO! Urbaser are very grateful to those people who toss the lid of the glass jar into the yellow recycling bin, just before you pop the glass section into the glass recycling container. In other words, take your used jam jar to the rounded green recycling container, take the top off, throw the top into the yellow bin, and pop the glass jar into the small round hole on the glass recycling container. This is very helpful to the process.

PLASTIC & TETRA-PACK RECYCLING – ‘ENVASES’ CONTAINER
Plastic recycling. YELLOW PLASTIC CONTAINER. Here’s an encouraging statistic: on average, over 80% of the materials correctly deposited inside a yellow plastic recycling container are able to be recycled by the Urbaser plant!
Yellow containers are for used tin cans, metal, plastic and drinks containers. Plastics come in all different grades, types and weights from clingfilm (not recyclable at all, never decomposes and releases methane in landfill so PLEASE don’t buy it!) right through to used bleach bottles which can be processed into man-made yarn from which warm scarves can be knitted!
Into the yellow bin we can put empty: tetra-briks (the square containers typically containing UHT milk, soup, fruit juice or stock liquid for example) including the plastic cap, used water bottles, containers that had cleaning products such as window cleaning pump action sprays.
Used aerosol cans should be recycled in the yellow container, but NOT if they have the square ‘flame’ symbol on the back in red/orange.
Aluminium foil that has been used should be kept aside until you can crush enough of it all together in your hand to form a ball that is the size of a tennis ball. Then place it into the yellow recycling bin.
If items are very dirty – for example you found a plastic bottle washed up on the beach and it’s half full of sand or coated in tar, dirt, sand, etc. please DON’T put it into the yellow container. Items that are very dirty ‘infect’ the other container contents and render everything that has been touched by the dirt ‘unusable’. Put soiled or very sandy cans, bottles and tetra packs into the ‘normal’, general rubbish bin. It does not matter if you squash your plastic bottles down or not, they are still recyclable in any form except if they are soiled or dirty.
More than just plastic goes into the yellow container! Bread bags that are half paper and half plastic can go in. As well as plastics these bins are also designed for taking drink cans such as Coke cans, cans that had fish or vegetables in them, for example.
Aluminium trays from things like bake-at-home garlic breads can also be put in. Please DO rinse out metal containers before putting them into the recycling.

CLOTHING, SHOES, TOYS – ‘ROPA’ CONTAINER
Unwanted items such as clothing, shoes, sheets, curtains and toys can go into the tall, square sided recycling container with the pull-down compartment at head-height. Donated items received are then either cleaned and donated to the needy, or recycled. As many modern materials are not compostable because they contain man-made fibres as well as natural ones, or they are entirely man-made they will never decompose but will sit in land-fill leaching toxins.
The fashion industry represents the second-most polluting industry in the world, after the petro-chemical industry. PLEASE recycle unwanted items and do your best to make use of second hand clothes stores, vintage markets, e-bay and so on, to purchase clothing and fashion items, wherever possible because there is a cost behind each dress, pair of jeans, shirt, and sock that goes unnoticed by most people: the cost to the environment. According to figures from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), it takes 3,781 liters of water to make a pair of jeans, from the production of the cotton to the delivery of the final product to the store. That equates to the emission of around 33.4 kilograms of carbon equivalent, perhaps half the weight of an adult female!

USED COOKING OIL – ‘ACEITE’ CONTAINER
Used cooking oil, when cold, can be decanted at home into plastic bottles, pop the top on the bottle and drop it into the orange recycling containers marked ACEITE. Disposing in this way stops the oil clogging pipes and polluting fresh water. Never put engine oil from vehicles into these containers! Used cooking oil can be transformed into soap or even biodiesel for vehicle fuel.

BATTERIES
Used batteries contain heavy metals which are toxic to soil and water as they degrade.
They MUST be separated from normal rubbish – please don’t ever throw used batteries into the general rubbish! They are only recyclable when deposited into a used battery container, such as those found in major supermarkets and hardware stores.

LARGE ITEM DISPOSAL
As in many countries, fly-tipping is a big problem in Spain. But it should not be, because dumping large items at your local Punto Limpio “Clean point” should have no cost attached. This is a local council designated area where big, bulky or potentially toxic items can be dumped and there is one near Estepona Industrial Park.
Small electrical domestic appliances. In terms of smaller items: a steam iron that no longer works, a hair styler that is broken, a laptop that no longer works, these can be taken to the Tourist Office in Duquesa Port. It faces the taxi rank and the mini supermarket. Go inside and turn left. Behind the door is a tall green bin into which you can place small household electrical items for disposal. We were assured that in as many cases as possible these items will be taken apart so that parts can potentially be re-used. The ‘Edificio Multi-Usos’ in Sabinillas next to the Policia Local also has a box to deposit broken electrical household items.
For things such as furniture, chairs, shelving etc. your local bins will have a notice on them telling you on which night you should place bulky items, once a week, so that they are collected early the following morning.

And finally…

Here are 12 good habits for reducing waste in your home:

Opt for reusable shopping bags
Put a “No Junk Mail” sticker on your letterbox
Avoid food waste
Buy in bulk or in large-size packaging
Buy eco-rechargeable or refillable products
Drink tap water or filter it, do not buy bottled water
Use rechargeable batteries
Restrict printer usage
Start composting
Donate old clothing, shoes and toys – buy vintage/second hand clothes
Borrow or hire tools rather than buy them
Repair goods and appliances rather than throw them out.

If you are interested in finding out more about zero waste, plastic-free and eco-friendly living locally, you can go to:

Eco Passion webpage: www.eleanord3.sg-host.com

Eco Passion Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/ecopassionspain/

Eco Passion Facebook group ‘Passion for Plastic-free Living’: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2160107127536195/ Top of Form

Eco Passion on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ecopassionspain/

Eco Passion on Twitter: https://twitter.com/EcoPassionSpain

May 27, 2020

Visiting our local recycling centre – Part 1 (By Melissa Vaughn)

Vanessa Byrne Environment, Green Living recycle, Recycling 0

Here at Eco Passion we are always looking for ideas and ways that we can help reduce our waste and live a lifestyle that is more sustainable and environmentally friendly. We support European Week for Waste Reduction.

The European Week for Waste Reduction (EWWR) is held annually in November. If you have not heard of European Week for Waste Reduction or the awards, you can view their facebook page or website (https://www.ewwr.eu/en/) for more information. The website is full of ideas on how to reduce waste and live a more environmentally friendly lifestyle.

To tie in with EWWR in November 2018, Eco Passion organised a ‘Trip to the Tip’ to visit the recycling plant in our local community of Casares in Málaga. One of our group who attended, writer and active member of the local community, Melissa Vaughn, was inspired to write a full account of the trip to help others get a sense of the amount of work that is done at our local recycling plant, and how we can all do more to generate less waste.

Read her detailed first-hand account of how our local plant sorts our waste here in the Estepona/Casares area of the Málaga province in Spain.

Visit to Urbaser recycling plant, Casares, Spain

In November 2018 a group of about 20 locally-based men, women and children took a ‘Trip to the Tip’ organised by Eco Passion, which is owned and run by Sarah Spencer. We went by private bus to the central processing plant for refuse, called Urbaser, which is located at a large, government-controlled, processing centre in the hills, which is the Pedregales area of Casares.

We were greeted by an excellent Spanish guide, Jesus, who welcomed us to the Urbaser visitor centre and explained the waste processing system to us, showing us a glassed-in, scale model of this expansive, and very busy recycling centre. He answered our questions in Spanish with several members of our party providing an English translation, then our guide showed us to our seats in the adjacent auditorium. We watched an informative video on how each stage of the waste processing process is linked to the next.

We were walked through the process, onscreen, from the moment that the enormous trash trucks arrive, fully loaded with waste, right through to how the rubbish is processed and compacted. Plus, Jesus provided us the (staggering) facts and figures regarding the volume of rubbish the plant processes, and disturbingly, the continual percentage increase in turnover – in other words the tonnage of refuse the plant faces, goes on steadily increasing year by year as we continue a worrying trend of ever-increasing our domestic waste output.

Urbaser is processing domestic refuse continuously:
24hrs a day, 365 days a year and from a large geographical area: Benahavis, Istan, Fuengirola, Torremolinos, Ojen, Marbella, Estepona, Casares, Duquesa, Sabinillas and Manilva. As you can imagine, the sheer amount of waste generated by an area as large as this is astonishing, and it all converges in massive trucks, making their way to this one location, for sorting and recycling.

Even nowadays, not all waste can be recycled.
The plant must also act as the final resting place of items such as unwanted beds, clapped-out bicycles, rusted fridges and outdated furniture. Where do these items go? We move onto the controversial problem of landfill. Because burning refuse is against clean-air laws, a certain percentage of waste cannot be recycled or burnt and must be crushed, then buried.

A sobering moment was when our guide pointed to 3 large domed hills nearby; grass-covered and green with some shrubs growing on top. A pretty sight until you realise the truth, because, despite appearances, only one of the three hills is actually ‘real’. The other two are man-made and crammed with compacted cast-offs, formed into blocks like huge dominoes, stacked on top of each another.

How are such compacted blocks created?
If you opened the mound today you would not recognise the original items as they are compacted onsite alongside other bulky items, squashing them all together into heavy blocks, each about the size of a small car, before those blocks are mechanically loaded, one on top of the other, into the pit in the ground.

How is the landfill site prepared?
Beginning as enormous, conical holes that are dug into the ground, each huge pit is lined with thick plastic sheeting in an attempt to minimise seepage of toxic liquids in the years to come, once the pit has been sealed off. The hole in the ground is progressively land-filled over time with compacted blocks of unrecyclable rubbish. Once the hole is filled it then begins to grow upwards from flat land into a ‘hill’. As it rises, higher and higher, dumper trucks circle around the ever-growing ‘mountain’ of trash, piling up all the blocks of unwanted, unrecyclable bulky items that we spoilt, 21^st century earth-dwellers have discarded.

Once the mound reaches the maximum height that’s considered safe, it is then cosmetically ‘disguised’ as a real hill. So we have a towering pile of corroding cast-offs, sealed into plastic, dusted with soil and a few purposely-planted shrubs atop, to lend a natural image to the scene. The occasional ‘chimney’ pipe in the hill to allow flammable gases such as methane, from inside the chamber to vent, would be the only visible clue to a hiker on the crest of the hill, that all was not what it seemed, underfoot.

This is the physical scar formed from the blight of consumerism our modern society shamefully suffers with. In terms of weight, we throw away five times more garbage per person, than our grandparents did. In 1960 we disposed, each year of waste that amounted to the weight of a pig, per person. Now we each toss out waste that equates to the weight of a cow, every year. Our instantly-disposable way of thinking about commodities means that land-fill has now become a global menace and we are running out of natural space for permanently storing unrecyclable refuse.

How is the waste actually processed?At the Urbaser waste processing centre we learnt that there are three pathways for refuse that enters the plant:

– Recyclables (plastics, metal, paper, cardboard, glass)
– Organic material (composted on site)
– Other refuse that is neither recyclable nor compostable. This is destined for landfill.

Glass is collected at the plant and then sold to another company which deals with washing and then processing the glass to recycle it. Regarding paper and cardboard, this is not pulped at Urbaser but is collected, baled and sold to another firm that then deals with the actual recycling. In this way the local council are generating funds from the sale of glass, paper and cardboard to another party. One can only imagine how much it costs to run and staff this enormous (and progressively growing!) processing plant 24hrs a day, 365 days a year so, to my mind anyhow, it’s a little irritating that some members of the public begrudge local government ‘earning’ something from our rubbish.

The normal size rubbish trucks we are familiar with deposit their loads into extra-large vehicles which then make their way to the Casares URBASER processing plant. On arrival these vehicles pass into the compound and drive onto a special weighbridge where they are weighed. After that, the vehicle proceeds to the dumping area. This is a zone of several enormous concrete-lined pits, side by side to which the vehicle backs up and ejects the full load of rubbish, down into a huge pit. A jumbled mess of general rubbish falls into the pits and is then grabbed by an enormous moveable industrial grasper (think of the yellow one in “Toy Story” but much, much, bigger to the point of out-sizing a car!). The grabber takes sections of rubbish and deposits them onto the first of a series of conveyor belts that begin the process of sorting.

Sorting at the plant is done by the following means:

– MAGNETIC
Metal items within the jumbled rubbish jump upwards from the moving conveyors to attach themselves to huge magnets as the conveyor of refuse passes beneath. However as most people know, only iron-containing metals (such as cobalt and nickel) react to a magnet, so further stages are involved in the extraction of metals.

– GRAVITATIONAL
After the magnets have done their work, the remaining rubbish enters an enormous revolving machine the size of a large room, (which looks like a greatly magnified washing machine drum). The refuse enters and as the drum slowly revolves it is turned constantly while the rubbish is falling continuously. Organic material drops through small holes in the metal walls and is gathered for composting onsite. Our guide, Jesus, told us that the inner walls are sharp and rip open plastic sacks of household rubbish, throwing their contents around inside where items of different weights and sizes fall through different sized holes. He made our knees quake when he told us that this enormous drum is quite capable of tearing a human body to pieces!

– OPTICAL
Industrial optical checks are done as well as human optical checks. They are carried out on items moving on a conveyor where many staff are sorting rubbish passing in front of them. There are also machines at the plant with special optical ability that are capable of sorting rubbish of different kinds.

– BALLISTIC
Lightweight items are automatically pushed off the conveyor at appropriate points according to their weight. There is also an ‘induction’ stage.

The above stages ensure that like is matched with like and eventually a used Coke can, for example, will end up with all the other used cans, and tetra-paks will be sectioned with all the other similar items and so on. We did a coach-driven tour around the actual machinery in use and it was fascinating. We were able to watch as machines processed various items and we saw, for example, items such as rigid black plastic baskets used by the fishing industry, drink cans and bales of used newspapers successfully sectioned out in huge piles and awaiting onward transportation to the appropriate recycling area.

What’s in the average domestic rubbish bin?

Here is a break-down of what the average household in Spain is disposing into street bins, on a weekly basis:

Organic (biodegradable) material = 60%
Paper/Card = 13%
Other = 11%
Plastics = 10%
Glass = 3%
Metal = 3%

As you can see, organic material (fruit and vegetable waste as well as meat and fish bones etc.) makes up the highest percentage component of household waste and is biodegradable – hurrah! The process of composting is an important aspect of the work that is carried out at Urbaser. Huge, roofed storage areas contain decomposing piles of organic matter that are in the process of becoming what we recognise to be ‘compost’. They are patrolled and frequently turned by huge diggers that rotate the piles of rotting matter in order to air it and prevent it from overheating which can cause self-combustion!

These gigantic composting sheds are the source of the ‘heady odour’ at Urbaser! It used to be that after a period of time, when the organic solids have broken down, that the resulting compost used to be available for sale to members of the public to use on their own gardens. However, nowadays, Urbaser cannot guarantee that every little piece of plastic has been successfully removed from the compost that they generate. Not wanting to risk a possible lawsuit from a household who maybe decided to use the compost to grow their own veg, but was not aware of the risk of such plastics ending up in their food, for example, Urbaser now only supplies its compost to local government where it is used in street-side planters, beside roads and in the central part of roundabouts and so on, for the creation of council-maintained flower beds.

To read more about what we learned at the visit to the Urbaser recycling plant, please look out for Part 2 where we will talk about the various containers, what can and can’t be recycled and what we can all do, and should be doing, to reduce our waste.

May 1, 2020

Eco-friendly products: Soapnuts – Natural laundry detergent

Vanessa Byrne Eco-Friendly Products, Zero Waste Ideas 0

We are so pleased to be able to offer a chemical-free, vegan, zero waste and plastic-free range of laundry products. Living Naturally Soapnuts are a 100% natural and certified organic detergent that grow on trees in India. These seeds or nuts occur naturally and require no processing before using them. They are also cultivated ethically and carry the ‘Ethical’ certification.

Soapnuts are effective and gentle at the same time. They will leave your laundry fresh and clean and compared to other powder detergents, their mildness will keep colours bright, maintaining the fabric structure of your clothes for longer periods of time. These organic and natural laundry soapnuts can be used on all fabrics and at all temperatures from 30. C – 90. C. Suitable for all washing machines especially energy efficient machines. They are also great for all allergy sufferers who may not be able to use standard laundry detergent, as they are 100% natural.

Add essential oil to make your laundry smell fantastic:

For those who wish to have more fragrance in their laundry washing, you can add a few drops of essential oil to the drawer. You can also add a couple of tablespoons of bicarbonate of soda for extra softness. With the soapnuts and the bicarbonate of soda, you won’t need to use fabric softener and will notice your clothes are softer than when using conventional laundry detergent.

Are the soapnuts natural laundry detergent good value?

We offer the products in bags of 240 washes (500g, 11€) or 480 washes (1kg, 15€) which makes the product extremely cost effective when compared to conventional detergent. It also helps lower your carbon footprint, given that, even if you use powder detergent in cardboard boxes, a 2kg box will usually only last you 30 washes so to manufacture and transport that product has a significant impact on our planet’s limited resources.

Inside the bag there will be a mixed of whole and broken shells. This does not affect the efficacy of the soapnuts. There also may be variation of colours due to the time the soapnuts were harvested, which also doesn’t affect their efficacy.

How to use the soapnuts:

To use the soapnuts you simply add 6-8 shells or nuts into the small linen bag provided and tie the top tight. Add the bag into the drum of the machine along with your washing. Each bag of 6-8 nuts can last 4 washes before they need to be changed. When discarding the used soapnuts you can either add them to your compost or onto your garden as a natural fertiliser. If you don’t have a garden or a compost you can add them into the soil of pot plants too. Inside the leaflet that comes with the soapnuts, there are lots more ideas and suggestions to enjoy. Whatever you do with the used soapnuts, they give you a 100% bidegradable and zero waste solution to conventional laundry detergent.

Natural stain removal

Within this beautiful range of Living Naturally products we also offer the natural stain remover sticks. They work on grass, red wine, ketchup, blood, grease, underarm stains, and so much more. We have a small child and together with the soapnuts we can beat all the usual stains you would expect in a young family. Every time I put a wash on I think “will it really come out clean?” and every time I hang the washing out I am totally impressed. Even the most stubborn stains are washed away. The Living Naturally natural stain remover stick is made with all-natural, biodegradable ingredients. There are no artificial dyes or perfumes, just the fresh, clean scent of natural eucalyptus and the deodorizing power of litsea. Using this natural and zero waste stain remover stick will not discolour clothes or fabrics.

Using the soapnuts natural laundry detergent together with the stain remover stick will be the ultimate zero waste solution for all your natural laundry washing needs. Try it today!

April 9, 2020

How to reduce waste when out and about

Vanessa Byrne Green Living, Zero Waste Ideas 0

We might be in the height of summer and having to wear masks, but you can still think about how to reduce waste when you’re out and about. You might be dog walking, running errands, braving the beach or heading to the forest for a picnic. Or you may simply be thinking about your work routine and how to reduce waste on your commute or on your lunch break.

So why not make sure you’re prepared for any eco needs while you’re out? Once you start on the journey to become plastic-free or zero waste or just more in tune with your environmental footprint, then there are some changes that you can make to your lifestyle which will seem completely natural, and from which you won’t switch back.

Here’s our top ways to be eco-conscious while you’re out and about:

1. Take a reusable water bottle with you

I find when I am out in the car, travelling, going shopping, on a long walk with my dog or meeting up with friends, that I often want to drink water. Whereas before I may have stopped off at a shop and grabbed a plastic bottle of water, I now always take my own bottle with me. It’s like an extension of myself! I leave the house with it full of filtered tap water, and when I am passing a public drinking tap, friendly bar, or even water dispenser then I know I can easily refill it. If you want to avoid plastic, have a look at our stylish stainless steel bottle range

2. Take reusable cutlery with you

This may sound like an odd one, but if you stop off for some take away food, the last thing you want is to be given plastic disposable cutlery. Whether you’re grabbing a baguette and some filling (wrapped in paper from the deli of course!) or a salad in a (cardboard!) box or even an ice cream, if you have your own set of reusable cutlery then you’ll never get caught out. You could even bring out a set from home in a small pouch, or invest in a smart bamboo set, which can also come with a straw and cleaner as well, the beauty being that when it’s at the end of its life it’s completely biodegradable. Have a look at our bamboo spork to pop in your bag, and away you go

3. Bring your own reusable cup

Whether it’s tea, coffee, chai latte or soya flat white that floats your boat, if you like to have a hot drink ‘on the go’ then in makes perfect sense to grab your own reusable cup from home and have it with you. Where we’re based in southern Spain a lot of those aforementioned drink options don’t exist (coffee of course is not a problem!), but if you live in a place where you want to grab a take away skinny latte, then in many cases some of the cafe chains will offer a discount as well for using your own cup. There are so many funky reusable cup options on the market so opt for something sustainable. And if, like me, you spend too much time at home trying to work and do a million other things, then because the cups have lids, they work to keep your drink warm so you don’t need to re-heat it in the microwave!

4. Always carry a reusable bag (or two or three!)

If you’re new on the eco journey to less waste and less plastic then remembering to take a bag with you at all times can be tough, but once you do it a few times and visibly see how fewer plastic bags are being stuffed in your cupboard under the sink (or other such places to stuff plastic bags) then it will soon become habit. I have a few different ones, but there is always at least one in my handbag, even if I don’t plan to go grocery shopping. You never know when you might just stop and see something you need and then you can happily refuse a plastic bag and just use your own. Try our cotton tote bags and show people you’re living a life without plastic.

March 30, 2020

Zero Waste Ideas to Survive Lockdown

Vanessa Byrne Green Living, Zero Waste Ideas 0

Well done everyone, we’re well into lockdown in Spain due to the rapid increase in Covid19 cases in the country. How has being zero waste featured in that for you? Have you found that it was on your mind a little more or a little less? While you’re holed up at home, are you wondering how can you survive the situation but still be environmentally friendly?

From an environmental perspective it already feels like a massive win. Consumerism has reduced, meaning a natural reduction in waste when it comes to things like packaging of items such as clothes, take away food, gifts, toys etc. (think of a day in the life of a shopping mall…) And then we have people not commuting or travelling so there is less fuel being burned, fewer flights in the air etc.

Satellite images have circulated showing how air pollution and nitrogen levels have decreased over China and Italy in the wake of the coronavirus lockdowns. No doubt the same images will arise over the likes of Madrid and Barcelona and even London, when things are coming to a halt there too. My husband even commented to me today how he had the kitchen door open and noticed that the background hum of the road had gone and he could hear the birds more clearly, and that the skies were clear of all the prolific vapor trails from aeroplanes now that so few flights were operating.

It got me thinking about what ways we can all keep busy at home and remain zero waste at the same time. Some of these ideas many of you will likely already be doing, others maybe not, so let’s have a look:

Growing seeds: A zero waste food source

Personally, there is nothing I like better than to plant a seed and watch it grow. March/April is the planting season and is the perfect time to start germinating new plants. It could be anything from flowers for your balcony or window boxes to starting a full vegetable patch in your garden. Whatever your home or your scope, you can still enjoy that nurturing feeling of creating new life and watching it grow. If your local supermarket sells seeds, then you’ve got a head start there and can arm yourself with some flowers, fruit or vegetables.

Luckily we had a large bag of soil on the terrace already before the shops closed, but if getting soil is a problem, there are many delivery services still functioning so you could also order seeds, pots, tools and soil online if you needed to (though it’s better to look at what you have around the house already that you can repurpose instead.

Furthermore, there are also subscriptions to fabulous companies like the lovely Mud and Bloom who promote zero waste nature boxes for kids. My mother was kind enough to sign our son up to a 6-month subscription so every month he gets a new box filled with compost pellets, seeds and other clever nature activities, everything from painting stones to creating a bumble bee mobile (not with real bees!). These boxes are perfect for indoor activities and for those who don’t have access to a garden. Thanks to Mud and Bloom (@mudnbloom on Instagram) we’re currently growing peas, cauliflower, snap dragons, lavender, black eyed susan, fennel and two willow trees!

So while it might take a while for the seeds to bloom into actual fruit and vegetables, once they do, it will be one less reason to leave the house and will, of course, create no waste.

Baking: Bonding with your kids or just using up what’s in the cupboards

This may seem like an obvious one, but being stuck at home has lead us to be more resourceful with what we use. On more than one occasion during lockdown in our house we’ve thought of having a clear out and using up what’s in our cupboards. Perhaps this is a by-product of wanting to find fewer reasons to go out to the shops, or just a general sense of having a ‘sort-out’ while being indoors, either way, it’s a positive move. Whether you like cooking or not (I fall heavily into the NOT camp!) there are tons of recipes out there that you can do by yourself, with a partner or with you kids.

Many of us will have our kids at home instead of school for the coming weeks and providing the last week of home schooling hasn’t lead to World War III, then cooking can actually cover such a huge amount of learning in one sitting, that it sure beats algebra or grammar.

Today my son experienced chocolate cornflake cakes for the first time, and despite needing no cooking skills whatsoever, it was immensely satisfying and very high on the zero waste rankings. Our favourite resource is the BBC Good Food website for all kinds of recipes and loads of good vegan options too.

Journaling: Write it down – for posterity

Another by-product of being stuck inside for weeks on end is feeling the need to write. In our busy schedules of normal life, we may often feel like we don’t have time. I know I use that excuse a lot for not doing more writing. However, this current time with the whole world trying to fight covid19 is unprecedented and therefore more deserving than ever to be recorded, remembered and passed on to future generations.

By writing things down, you can release stress, clear your head, process your thoughts and engage your brain, all of which are going to be necessary as quarantine times are starting to be extended in some countries. Maybe you can use it as a chance to get offline and get back to pen and paper too, I know some friends have really enjoyed getting back into drawing and sketching as a result too. It’s time to have a dig around in those drawers that rarely get opened and reach for your pens, pencils and notepads, dust them off and get creating – a perfect zero waste activity and one for all the family too.

Take up a new hobby: Or start something you’ve been putting off

I’ve been wanting to learn how to play the ukulele for a long time now. That would be my hobby take up of choice. Once I’ve found a reliable online source for a good instrument, I’ll likely indulge. But hobbies can take their form in many ways. It doesn’t necessarily have to be that you learn a new skill, but that you get around to doing that ‘thing’ you’ve been meaning to do for a while. One of my others is researching and sorting out a home composter. I can’t bear looking at all the fruit and veg scraps going into the bin any longer (I’ve even been sprinkling them into the countryside sometimes on dog walks close to my home!), so my evenings are spent watching videos from all around the world with people’s own ideas, versions and suggestions of DIY zero waste home composters.

Might it be your time to make that switch to solid shampoo that you’ve been meaning to do? Or get a family pack of bamboo toothbrushes and natural toothpaste so you have one less thing to grab at the supermarket? Maybe you’ve been meaning to try wax wraps and now you’re going out less often and doing more home cooking? It could be time to make some zero waste swaps around your home so you come out of the other side with your greener habits well and truly in place. You can make your eco-friendly shopping list with us and have it delivered to your door by courier. Our delivery service is as yet unaffected, and we have put all necessary precautions in place when packing orders etc. too.

Whatever you decide, it’s important to see the positives in the situation wherever you can, so hopefully some of these suggestions will help make your lockdown days more bearable and be a trigger to start some new zero waste habits. Tell us what you’ve been up to in the comments below.

February 4, 2020

What if the eco alternatives are not that good?

Vanessa Byrne Eco-Friendly Products, Green Living, Zero Waste Ideas 0

If you’ve already started to make changes to your lifestyle and are heading toward a more eco-conscious or eco-friendly existence, then you may have already experienced a few ‘trial and error’ moments.

First of all, one of the first lessons on the sustainability path is not to just go crazy and replace perfectly working items for those that are plastic-free or sustainable, just because you want to make a statement about your new-found zero waste lifestyle. If you’ve got Tupperware in your cupboard, then damn well use that stuff until it’s no longer fit for purpose. Only when you’ve exhausted all available items should you even consider swapping to zero waste solutions.

However, let’s say you’re a little way down the line and you’ve made space for some new products to enter your sustainable life, but, on trying them out you have to admit (even if only to yourself) that they are not quite up to the task. It happens. And when it happens, what should we do?

Well first of all, don’t beat yourself up! You’re trying your hardest to do the right thing. You’ve spent time and no doubt considerable money on a new product that you think will be the answer to your zero waste dreams, but it just isn’t working out. Let’s see what you can do about it…

Have you given it enough time?

When it comes to changing a daily product that you’ve spent years getting used to, like cosmetic products such as shampoo, toothpaste or body cream, it is bound to take time to adjust to something entirely different. With solid shampoo it is well documented that most people need to go through a period of adjustment while your hair and body adjust to the new regime of natural oils and butters. This adjustment time can vary wildly from person to person and in some it will be two weeks while others might take six months. Not only is it an adjustment to the product itself but also the way it’s used. If you’re used to squirting liquid shampoo onto your hair and getting a generous lather, but now you have to work at getting the right technique to generate lather from a solid shampoo, then it will take time to make that new habit feel normal. This can apply to simple things like wax wraps replacing cling film or loofah pads replacing wash up sponges but it will take time and you need to allow a decent adjustment period for all the changes you might be making.

Could someone else benefit from the product?

A large part of our journeys to zero waste or our moves toward a more sustainable lifestyle become completely fulfilling when we tell others about it and they start to make changes too. It only takes one conversation to start a ripple effect where suddenly all your peer group are reporting back to you on their eco finds or zero waste wins! Given that it’s highly possible you have mentioned your eco warrior endeavours to a few people already, could you pass the new product on to one of them? What doesn’t work for you might be the perfect solution for someone else. You might be out of pocket but if it’s a generous gift then tell the beneficiary it is their early birthday present and that you’re trying to be a responsible consumer so won’t be getting them something new and shiny when their birthday (or Christmas) does come round.

Should you try something else?

If you’ve given it enough time and you’ve managed to pass on the unhelpful zero waste or sustainable item to a friend, colleague, dogsitter, neighbour etc. in a responsible way with nothing ending up in the bin, then maybe it’s time to try again. Perhaps there is another product out there better suited to your hair type, skin type, washing up type (assuming there is such a thing!) or general needs. The market for eco products across the world is growing by the day and with a little time and a bit more research, you’re bound to find another product to try. If you’re going to look for new eco solutions to your needs, try to make sure you shop responsibly and buy from small, local businesses with as little carbon footprint as you can.

Get in touch with the supplier

If something hasn’t worked out for you, for whatever reason, do get in touch with the people you bought from in the first place. Giving your feedback is vital, especially for small businesses trying to make their mark in the eco marketplace. Even if your feedback might be negative, any shop/store/producer will be keen to hear from you. You might find they have some tips or tricks to help you use the product better or in a more effective way. They might also stock an alternative you can try, and better still, they might offer you a discount for shopping with them again. Turn your bad experience into a good one by getting in touch with the supplier for advice. Even better if you can tag them in a post, comment (kindly) on one of their posts or simply send them a message via email or social media. All contact will be appreciated, especially if it’s a small local business who can offer you another eco solution.

If all else fails…

Well what happens here depends on the product and the situation of course, but if you find you’ve exhausted all eco avenues and have tried your hardest to replace a product and it’s really not worked out for you, then sometimes we have to accept that some of the eco products on the market today just don’t live up to our less eco-friendly staples. You might find that you have to return to the dreaded plastic bottle (gasp!) or the dreaded tube of classic toothpaste or the shop-bought washing up liquid or dishwasher tabs just one more time……. We don’t recommend you do this for long though! But we have to give ourselves a break and know that every step we take on our eco journey or our quest to a more sustainable lifestyle is a step in the right direction. If your bathroom is plastic free but you can’t give up your washing up sponge or if you’ve got top marks in the kitchen but find natural toothpaste makes you want to heave then just take it one step at a time and know that you’re probably doing better than most on the grand scheme of things.

Overall, the message is to do what you can and tell others (and your suppliers) about your zero waste wins and little by little those changes that are harder to make, will come to you in time. Keep going eco warriors, we’ve got your back and think you’re doing great.

Are there any eco products you’re struggling with? Let us know in the comments!

January 17, 2020

Eco Friendly Products: Reusable Soya Wax Wraps

Vanessa Byrne Eco-Friendly Products 0

One of our favourite eco-friendly products are these charming reusable zero-waste soya wax food wraps are made in Wales, UK using sustainably sourced cotton. They are coated in soya wax making them 100% vegan and of course they are completely plastic-free. Many wax wraps on the market use bees wax, but we have found soya wax wraps to be just as effective.

They can be used to cover bowls of food, or wrap your cheeses, or as sandwich wraps for those daily packed lunches. You can even shape the wraps into small pots or bowls to hold some nibbles while out and about, at the beach or on a picnic. We currently have a variety of designs to choose from as well so simply pick your favourite and look out for new designs every few months.

They help to keep food fresh by allowing it to breathe naturally without drying out, and you avoid the toxins or microplastics associated with using plastic containers or film. You can wash them in the sink using cool water (not too hot) with mild soap and leave to dry naturally. With the correct care they can last around 1 year. After that you can either re-coat the wax yourself or if the material is worn then cut into pieces for your home compost. If your local recycling area has an organic section, you can put them in the organic waste bins.

Now is the time to say goodbye to cling film or plastic wrap in your kitchen. Use up what you have left and then switch to this eco-friendly solution knowing that you won’t be leaving unnecessary plastic waste on our beautiful planet.

They come in a pack of three to include these sizes:
1 x 30x30cm
1 x 25x25cm
1 x 18x22cm

So, you have a size for each eventuality. Due to each wrap being handmade by a small business, there might be some variation in exact measurements from pack to pack.

Our soya wax reusable food wraps go perfectly with our stainless steel lunch boxes, reusable water bottles and bamboo spork for the perfect plastic-free lunch or picnic. Have a look at our ‘Out and About’ range today and get in touch with any questions you might have.

December 29, 2019

Being More Green in 2020

Vanessa Byrne Green Living, Zero Waste Ideas 0

How many times have you already been asked what your New Year’s Resolutions are? Are you someone, like me, who doesn’t believe in making resolutions? I want to be more green in 2020 but I am not keen on the idea of setting up challenges for myself only to feel worse about not reaching them than I do about the thing we’re trying to give up/improve/change in the first place.

Our mission at Eco Passion is of course to increase awareness about green issues and the alternative products available to live a low waste and plastic-free existence where possible. So I am not going to challenge you to reach a certain goal, or to give up a certain product, or even to be vegan on the basis of mass meat farming and the impact that has on our environment (though of course having a go at #veganuary would be a worthy challenge ;)) – but the point is more to increase your awareness of what you use in your daily life and in what areas you can reduce your waste, as well as what impacts you can have as an individual. We have found that once you start to make small changes, it filters down into many other areas of your life and lifestyle.

I’ve put together a couple of useful pointers here:

1. Educate yourself and others

I don’t just mean read the things that pop up in your Facebook feed or other social media networks (though they can often be a great source of information), but really do your research. If you want to learn about what is really happening to our environment, or about industrial composting and where it’s available, or about the breakdown times of various materials (even replacements to plastic like stainless steel or silicon and some types of rubber will have an impact on the environment if thrown away or discarded incorrectly) – then do your research, read published and endorsed books and science journals as well as scientific papers you can find online. We’re so lucky to live in a time when information is at our fingertips and we don’t have to rely on encyclopedias or writing letters, just be rigorous about the sources you use.

2. Making changes around your home

If you’re reading this, there is a chance you already have some awareness of the importance of reducing your waste, reducing your use of plastic, recycling, home composting and generally reducing your carbon footprint. But it is likely even if you have started, that you can do more. Is now the time to have that water filter installed on your tap so you can finally give up buying bottled water? Is now the time you finally organise your kitchen bins to make recycling an easy habit rather than a big effort? How about getting that hook onto the back of your front door to remind you to take your reusable bags to the shops? Or could it be that you improve your insulation this winter so you can use less electricity heating your home? Maybe if you’re a homeowner you could look into the installation of solar panels so you can reduce your carbon footprint even more? And for plastic-free replacements to products you use around your home, be sure to check out our online store

3. Make a bigger impact

Many people are disheartened about the fact that as individuals there is a limit to what we feel we can do to make real changes where it matters. It’s one thing to carry your reusable bags to the supermarket or even shop for your loose fruit and veg at the market and not the supermarket, but would it not have more impact if you could influence the supermarkets themselves to change? There is nothing to stop us all making contact with our local supermarkets and asking them to make changes. For example, at Mercadona here in Spain, all the eggs they sell come in plastic packaging – if we all asked them to change to carton containers, maybe we could make a difference. Their range of vegetarian and vegan food has increased and improved no end, so it’s not unreasonable to expect them to respond to requests for less plastic and less packaging in general. Their customer service section on their website is even available in English, so why not use your voice and help make changes on a greater level. Have a look at this page and you can choose to use their contact form, call and speak in person, or comment via social media: https://info.mercadona.es/en/customer-service

Why not make 2020 the year you really make a difference to the future of our precious planet.

October 23, 2019

How to Have a Plastic-free Halloween Party

Vanessa Byrne Green Living, Zero Waste Ideas 0

With Halloween approaching in a week’s time, thoughts are likely turning to parties, costumes and decorations galore! The local Chinese bazaars are brimming with endless packs of plastic, many of which will be for one-time use only. Here are some ideas on how to go plastic-free this year, and a reminder to ask yourself where you can reduce the waste and attempt a zero waste Halloween party to impress:

1. COSTUMES

2. SWEETS AND FOOD

It’s very tempting to buy packs of sweets for your party goers and we all know kids just can’t resist. But could you rustle up some simple homemade delights? A quick google search will find you hundred of recipes for no-bake sweet treats so you don’t even need to slave in the kitchen for hours. Jazz up your treats with some natural food colouring to give the full Halloween effect. Try these fabulous no-bake sweet treat ideas and you’ll have a clear conscience when it comes to your low waste Halloween party.

If your guests are bringing food, ask them to bring it in their own containers which can be washed and used again. Then if by chance there are any leftovers, they can be taken away again with zero waste.

3. TABLEWARE

If you’re throwing a party and really need to use disposable tableware like plates and cups, be sure to remember to buy biodegradable ones. Many shops offer a range of paper alternatives for plates and cups, but you can also offer wooden cutlery and paper straws. We can help with all these products, just check out our events and catering page and get in touch for any quotes you need for event packs. Our black paper straws would add a spooky touch to any eco Halloween party

4. DECORATIONS

Another big temptation is to run to the shops and grab the latest decorations, but the same principle applies. Have a look online for some simple ideas to create spooky interiors with glass lanterns, cut out pumpkins or jack ‘o lanterns, old branches, autumn leaves. Here are some more sustainable Halloween decoration ideas for your home

Don’t forget that once you have carved out your pumpkin, you can leave it in the garden (or campo) for the animals and insects to eat which will aid decomposing and will feed many creatures. If you have a compost or wormery set up at home, even better!

5. RECYCLING

If you do end up with plastic being used at your party or a lot of waste being generated, make it clear to your guests that you recycle by offering different bins. You can easily collect paper waste in a cardboard box which can then be transporteed to the blue bins. In our local area, the yellow recycling bins take many types of plastic so offer a bin for plastic waste then at least if you can recycle it, there will be less waste going into landfill. Glass is an obvious one and should your fabulous friends bring you bottles of fizz, they too can be easily recycled, adding to the eco-status of your party.

These are just five simple tips to get you thinking about how you can reduce your waste, use less plastic and have a Halloween party to make even the greenest eco warriors proud. Tell us how you get on or share any more ideas in the comments below.

September 11, 2019

Why it’s a War on Waste – Not Plastic

Vanessa Byrne Environment, Green Living 0

Controversially, I don’t think there should, or can be, a complete ban on plastic, it should be a war on waste instead, and here’s why:

As the daughter of a nurse, friend of many nurses and wife of someone who has spent a lot of time in hospital over the last 6 years, it is clear that there is a strong need for plastic in the medical world. Seeing my husband dispose of his anti-coagulating injection this morning, triggered this thought in me and made me more aware of the millions of people who rely on plastic for medical reasons every day.

I am usually the first to defend disabled people in the current anti-plastic-straw movement. And I also read an interesting article lately on exactly that issue. When hubby was recovering in intensive care, he could only sip water through a straw, and it didn’t even occur to me (not back then in any case) to opt for something more sustainable, as it wouldn’t for most people in that situation.

However, I do see a need for a real change in how these things are disposed of. It would be useful for manufacturers to a) make medical items from recycled plastic where possible, b) tell us what materials can and can’t be recycled in the relevant bins/boxes and c) provide more information on the best way to dispose of plastic medical items with the least impact possible to the environment. I am referring more to home-use than in hospitals but there could also be improvements made in smaller doctor’s surgeries for example where more recycling (of all types) could be implemented. (Did you see the nurse who made a beautiful mosaic of plastic lids used over her years of nursing?)

There are of course other industries which heavily rely on plastic and would potentially take longer to move into better alternatives. Automotive, aviation, electronics to name a few. But there are plenty of things we can do as an end user to put our purchasing power into action. Need a new toaster? – opt for stainless steel rather than a plastic outer. Want a new case for your mobile phone? There are environmentally friendly options out there that are still strong but so much better for the environment (such as pelacase) and so the examples could go on.

The main issue for me, however, is waste and how things are disposed of. Whether this is waste of plastic or waste in general, it’s the way we have become such a ‘throw away’ culture that is the problem. As you may have seen in many memes or posts online – There is no “away”, everything has to go somewhere.

We have a responsibility to dispose of our waste correctly and to educate others on how to do it right as well. If recycling facilities in your area are limited or restrictive, write to your local council and ask them what the plans are for improvement. If enough people speak up, then change will come. You could also arrange to visit your local recycling plant and find out exactly what happens there first hand so you can share with others the importance of recycling.

In our local recycling plant, 76% of all household waste that arrives is recycled. That is a huge amount that is diverted from landfill and given the opportunity to go on to make other things. It really is worth separating out your rubbish into the correct bins. If more recycleable materials are on the market, there is more chance for products to be made using these materials and thus less need for raw materials to be made.

Or if you find that littering in your community or local area is a problem, start a campaign to educate people as to the dangers and impact that littering can have. You will probably find that if you approach the environment department at your local council, they are likely to back any solid plans you have to help increase awareness of environmental issues, and would welcome the help.

Educate yourself and find out what you can do in your local community to contribute to recycling efforts, beach cleans, countryside cleans, volunteering opportunities on environmental or conservation schemes, fundraising for environmental charities etc. etc. If we all take steps toward creating less waste and educating others, then our children’s children might have a chance at living on a cleaner, greener planet. SHARESHARE ON FACEBOOK

August 28, 2019

4 Ways to Be More Eco Friendly as a Family on a Budget

Vanessa Byrne Green Living, Zero Waste Ideas 0

We all know that eco products and alternatives to plastic are often more expensive, especially if you want something that is good quality and will stand up to the less-environmentally-friendly counterpart. It also especially applies to products that you might get through quite often (such as toothbrushes – I know my son loves to chew the bristles on his bamboo toothbrush and the plastic ones are so much cheaper….) – but there are changes and swaps you can do as a family on a budget.

Here are four ideas for families with young children and a limited budget, to get you started on your eco journey without it costing the earth – pun intended!

1: Make your own cleaning products

Okay, okay I know you think they don’t work and are just not as good, or are a hassle to make when you can just grab what you are used to off the shelf in your local supermarket. But, next time your bathroom/kitchen/multi-surface/glass cleaner runs out, just take a moment to rinse out that bottle and pop in a homemade recipe (there are a million that you can Google and we’ll blog about our favourite soon) including easy to find and cheap ingredients like vinegar, bicarbonate of soda, lemon juice and essential oils. Using homemade cleaning product recipes means saving not only money (most recipes like this work out to be less than 1€ to make) but saving more plastic from being thrown away too – a win win for the environment.

2: Ditch the juice boxes and water bottles

Yes, I know it might sound easier said than done, but it only takes a small shift in habit to make you realise that we do things we’re programmed to do (and because others do it too) when really there is no need at all. I gave my son juice boxes while he was young until one day I thought, hang on a minute, there’s really no need for this. He has a reusable bottle that most days I put water in but some days he has juice from a larger carton, mixed with water. This not only again saves money as it’s a much more economical way to buy juice, but it also saves on so much unnecessary packaging that would otherwise end up being thrown away. While tetrapaks can be easily recycled here in the yellow containers, it’s even better to not create the waste in the first place. The same goes for water bottles in our house. They are banned! We all have reusable ones and drink filtered water from the tap. Once you make that shift, you’ll never go back.

3: Time to replace the wipes

Living with small children can make you want to be within arm’s reach of a wipe at all times. But if we could replace them, or at least drastically reduce our use of them, then we will be doing the planet a favour and our shopping bill too. It’s much easier to implement while at home, so make that the place to start. Keep your stash of flannels to hand, instead of that plastic packet. Get used to popping them in the wash everyday (and if you have small children you’ll likely be washing every day anyway!) so you won’t notice the extra laundry. Just a damp flannel can sort some general wipe-ups but for the more sticky or icky needs, we recommend using a little coconut oil on a soft flannel or cotton wool which won’t irritate the eyes of little ones. I managed to wipe away the most stubborn of black pirate face paint from the eyes of my 5yr old using coconut oil on cotton wool – he sat there with no complaints and even said how nice it smelled! If you can live without those baby wipes you’ll again reduce your household waste as well as your grocery shopping bill.

4: Snack time

One of the ways you can greatly reduce your waste and use of plastic is with snacks. It’s so tempting to buy the packaged snacks for those out-and-about moments when the little ones catch you off guard with being hungry. But do they really need cheese in shapes or strings or with things to dip in it – all inside plastic packets? You can re-create those snacks at a fraction of the cost. You can buy the little bread sticks for a few cents and a pack of soft cheese for 1€ and just make your own! You can cut your block of cheese into chunks and throw in some grapes. We’ve all got a cupboard full of an insane number of various sized tupperware pots that we’ve accrued over the years… now is the time to put them to proper use. And if you don’t happen to have lots of tupperware pots, you could invest in a set of small stainless steel ones which can be bought locally or online and will last years and years but have an ultimately better legacy on the planet than plastic.

These are just a few ways you can get thinking about how to be more eco, reduce your waste and unnecessary packaging, use less plastic but not break the bank in the process. Comment below with your favourite eco tips for the budget-conscious. SHARESHARE ON FACEBOOK

August 6, 2019

Tips on Using Solid Shampoo Bars for the First Time

Vanessa Byrne Eco-Friendly Products, Green Living, Zero Waste Ideas 0

This weekend (28th – 29th July) at the Festival Arte Sano in San Pedro de Alcántara we sold a lot of our shampoo bars and didn’t have the time to speak to everyone individually about methods on how to make the switch from liquid shampoo to solid all-natural ones. So we have brought you the advice from the manufacturer themselves (Anni from Funky Soap Shop) on ways you can make the adjustment:

Please do not use a shampoo bar once or twice and decide that you don’t like it. Everyone is different and everyone’s hair is different and what works for one person may not be good for another. You may need to give your shampoo bar several days maybe even up to two weeks to remove the old residues from your commercial shampoo. Give your hair time to get used to to the lack of chemicals, and remove product buildup. You might not experience an adjustment period at all, but if you do, here is some advice.

During the adjustment period you may notice your hair feeling dry, brittle or just not at its best. It may feel as if there is a coating, waxiness, or buildup on your hair. Those who use heavy styling products and/or have long hair may notice this effect (which will subside over time) more than those who use minimal styling products or who have short hair. This effect is caused by styling product build up and by the fact that our shampoo bars do not contain Sodium Laurel Sulphate to remove the build up. Shampoo bars also do not contain artificial chemicals or silicone that smooth the hair. There are people who have used shampoo bars and found their scalp over producing oil (because they used to use a harsh shampoo).

Sticking with it, the scalp will soon realize its oils are not being stripped and it will stop over producing. Eventually, your hair will feel great. Hard water may produce a similar build-up experience, so a vinegar rinse is highly recommended.

But the most common e-mail I receive from new shampoo bar users with hair adjustment troubles goes like this…”I just love the idea of using an all natural shampoo, but my hair feels strange and has a waxy texture!” Although we have many customers who have no adjustment problems at all, weird or waxy feeling hair it is not an uncommon issue, even after several weeks of use.

Adjustments periods can range from a few days to a few weeks, most adjust within the first week. We also had some customers who simply do not like shampoo bars. I have received e-mails from customers who tried shampoo bars for weeks and stopped using them, only to try again in a month, and have great success. Unfortunately, there is no single common thread in those with adjustment issues. Most of the time your hair simply needs to adjust as you switch from one type of shampoo to another.

Whether you realize it or not your commercial liquid shampoos and conditioners often contain synthetic silicones and silica that coat your hair, to make it “feel” nice, but leave a residue in your hair. For that reason, many hairdressers will tell you that it is a good idea to change commercial shampoo brands regularly.

This is a common scenario when you try a new shampoo . . .at first your hair feels funny, then you love it for a week or two, but then your hair seems dull and lifeless again. The fist week it was stripping your hair of the old shampoo residue, then it begins to leave its own! Other hair care products can also leave residues in your hair.

Synthetic silicones are derived from polymers which are soft, plastic, gel-like substances that are hard to remove from your hair and scalp. The detergent shampoos with with loads of SLS (Soduim Laurel Sulphate) are very good at stripping EVERYTHING (even those natural oils we want). When you switch to an All Natural shampoo bar, you no longer have those chemicals to strip away residue (which in the end is a VERY good thing). Our shampoo bars are very gentle cleansers.

Some find it helpful, especially in the beginning, NOT to rub the bar directly on their hair. They use a sponge to create foam, and only use the foam to wash. It can be very helpful in making the hair less tacky until the adjustment takes place.You can also try rinsing your hair with the help of some exfoliating gloves. Massage your hair with them to remove the residue!

You need to give the shampoo bars about a week to rid your hair of the old residues from your commercial shampoo. Because shampoo bar soaps do not strip hair in the same way as detergent based shampoos, you may notice your wet hair feeling different after washing than you may be accustomed. This is perfectly normal, you’ll love how your hair feels after it dries.

When you first begin using shampoo bars it is best to clarify your hair and scalp at least once a week using either with an:

1. Cider Vinegar Rinse

Mix 1 part vinegar, apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar with 2 parts water. To minimize odour, add a few drops of your favourite essential oil. Use as a final rinse after you shampoo

2. Baking Soda Rinse

1 tablespoon baking soda 1 – 2 cups warm water Combine the ingredients in a spray bottle or cup. Wet hair and spray or pour the rinse on your hair and work it through. Rinse thoroughly with warm water.

3. Rhassoul Clay Clarifying treatment

Add some Rhassoul clay into a bowl. Shake it level and just cover the clay powder in water. Leave the clay alone to hydrate and activate for about 10 minutes. The add more water or powder if needed to achieve the right consistency for the intended use. The clay can be stirred before use to assure a homogeneous consistency. For most uses, a yogurt like consistency is ideal. Wet the hair, then massage the clay-water mix into the scalp for a few minutes. Add a little more water to the scalp to keep the clay fluid. Do not rub the clay into the hair, just let the hair hang, it will be cleaned during the rinse. Rinse the hair and allow it to dry naturally.

If you are used to commercial shampoo and shampoo twice, you will have already noticed that the second wash produces a lot more lather. The first wash is mixing with the dirt and excess oil in your hair so the second wash is working on cleaner hair. The same is true for our shampoo bars.

So lather up, once, twice, maybe even three times at first. Then be sure to rinse, rinse, rinse!!! Again, if you have long hair, pay special attention to the middle back of the hair so that you rinse all of the soap out of your hair.

Hard water can make it more difficult to rinse all of the shampoo from your hair. You will feel the waxy soap residue in your hair length, especially if your hair is long. Some of our customers with very hard water suggest rinsing your hair with rain water.

We would love to hear your own experiences with our solid shampoo bars, so please email in with any questions or feedback to hello@eleanord3.sg-host.com – Thank you!

July 26, 2019

Bamboo Toothbrushes – An Easy Way to Replace Plastic in Your Life

Vanessa Byrne Eco-Friendly Products, Green Living 0

All our family have enjoyed this one and it’s such an easy switch to make. Both my husband and son were using plastic for what I call ‘manual’ toothbrushes whereas I have been using an electric one for some years now.

For them, it was an easy step to make and they were both very keen to do it. My 5yr old especially as he is very excited about our new business for “saving the planet” as he likes to tell people at random, usually at supermarket checkouts!

We tried a couple of different brands to the ones we sell by way of a little market research. My son used the Spanish ‘Brushboo’ but we have found that the quality of the wood felt a little lightweight and more than anything the handle wasn’t very comfortable to hold. Also, initially, one or two of the bristles started to come out, which didn’t bother my son too much but would have bothered me. Being a child he gets through brushes quicker than we do, and the bristles on the Brushboo didn’t last as long as the Hydrophil ones we now all use.

The Hydrophil brushes are much more rounded in the handle and the wood feels more dense and harder-wearing. The bristles feel stronger but not hard, they are still medium-soft and the childrens’ ones are ideal for kids from age 3 years upwards.

When I ran out of the changeable heads on my electric toothbrush I decided that rather than buy more plastic heads, even though the electric base still worked, that I would opt for bamboo toothbrush instead. The rationale was that our local ‘Multiple Use’ council building in Manilva (Málaga, Costa del Sol) has a box where they collect small household electrical items for recycling. On that basis I knew the toothbrush stem and base would not just be landfilled, but recycled instead.

Now the three of us enjoy a bamboo toothbrush and feel great knowing that once they come to the end of their life we won’t be contributing to more plastic polluting the earth, but that our toothbrush handles will biodegrade into the earth from where they came. Even better is if you can add it to your home compost or garden. You can pull out the bristles with pliers and then find a use in your garden or terrace for the little wooden stick…

Let us know in the comments if you have switched to a bamboo toothbrush, and how you’re getting on with it. You can also buy from our range via the links in the post.

July 19, 2019

Manilva’s Luna Llena Party and the Environment

Vanessa Byrne Environment, Green Living 0

Every year in July or August on the beach in Sabinillas we are treated to another big beach party in the name of celebrating the full moon. Some of the traditions for the night include music, fire shows, candles and lights, everyone dressed in white etc. This year the event will take place on Saturday 21st July 2018 from 20.30pm on Sabinillas’ main Paseo Marítimo.

In previous years it has been tradition to release lanterns into the sky at midnight. However, these have been thought to be at risk of starting campo fires and so were banned. Last year in 2017 white balloons were on sale with LED lights inside so that party-goers could buy them and release them at midnight instead.

Whilst this of course looked very pretty, it was an eco-warrior’s worst nightmare and I shuddered to think of the debris that later landed in the ocean in the form of popped balloons and the little LED lights, none of which will biodegrade fully and much of which could harm marine and bird life in our surrounding seas.

With that in mind, the team at Eco Passion asked the Manilva council’s Environment Department what was planned for this year’s Fiesta de Luna LLena. We are pleased to report that this year there has been a total ban on the sale, distribution and release of any type of balloon (Chinese lantern style or regular balloons) into the air on the night of Saturday 21st July in light of the potential damage that can be caused not only to the surrounding countryside in the form of fires but for the environment and oceans as well.

We thank the Manilva council for their continued efforts in considering our impact on the environment, and wish everyone a great evening on Saturday. Remember to dispose of your rubbish properly and cut out the use of single-use plastic wherever you can. The sea birds and dolphins will thank you! SHARESHARE ON FACEBOOK

July 2, 2019

#PlasticFreeJuly – The Last Straw

Vanessa Byrne Environment, Green Living 0

This month, we are supporting the #plasticfreejuly campaign that is being supported by a number of countries around the world, so we are proud to be spreading the word for this movement along the Costa del Sol.

Throughout July we will be offering tips on how we can all do our bit to help the impact on the environment and be more plastic free.

This week we are looking at STRAWS…

Plastic straws are one of the top 11 most found items found in beach clean-ups.

You only need to watch that video of the turtle with the plastic straw in its nose to know the damaging effect plastic straws have to our sea life, or the one of the albatross bird after it died where you can see the contents of its stomach and the amount of plastic that it ingested, poor things!

We can each do our part in preventing even more damage to Mother Earth. Here are a few facts about single-use plastic straws;

Here are a few tips to get us all started;

1. Don’t buy single-use plastic straws

It’s as simple as that. If you would like to buy straws, opt for more eco-friendly options such as paper, bamboo or steel. Even if you need to use a straw for health reasons, opt for a robust, reusable one or a flexible paper one. Take a look at the paper straws we have in our store.

2. Refuse single-use plastic straws at bars and restaurants

Make it clear to them that you are not happy with the plastic straws and suggest they should look into making the switch to eco-alternatives. It only takes one person to speak up and make a small change, and if everyone had that mentality, imagine the big change we could make together!

3. Switch from boxed drinks cartons to reusable bottles

If you have children, it’s tempting to pop a carton of juice in their packed lunch or school bag. We have opted to not buy these any more and minimise plastic waste by putting juice from a larger carton (and no straw) into a reusable bottle. Once you make the small changes, you’ll wonder why you did it differently before!

Challenge yourself, can you:

Switch from plastic to paper in your home or business?

Refuse a straw altogether and stop the waste?

Change from boxed drinks to drinks/water in a reusable bottle?

Tell us how you get on in the comments below or via our social media sites. We’d love to hear from you and hear your tips on reducing your plastic waste this month!

June 5, 2019

Landlords: Summer Rental Properties – 4 Tips To Be More Eco

Vanessa Byrne Green Living, Zero Waste Ideas 0

Tourism along the Costa del Sol has been at an all-time high the last couple of years but that also brings a higher volume of people, consumption and therefore higher volumes of waste.

You can make small changes which contribute to a bigger solution.

As a landlord of a summer rental property (or any time of year for that matter), you are likely to have guests from a variety of countries. Some will be naturally more eco-conscious than others. Also, depending on where you are located, will depend on how easily people can access environmentally helpful facilities such as all types of recycling bins.

Whether you have highly eco-aware guests or whether you have people who generate untold amounts of waste and don’t dispose of things correctly, we have put this list of tips together to help you:

1. Cleaning products
If you provide cleaning products within your property, these can easily be eco-friendly. We recommend Ecover – a tried and tested eco brand which is also easy to find in the locality such as in Carrefour or various health stores on the Costa. It works as well as normal cleaning products and uses renewable plant-based and mineral ingredients and it’s not tested on animals. Plus, many of the bottles are made from recycled plastic and those that aren’t can still be recycled in the yellow bins or reused when finished.

2. Water
Since our recent visit to the Acosol water board, we can safely confirm that the tap water in the whole of the area of the Costa del Sol is perfectly drinkable. We would highly recommend you letting your guests know this so that they know they don’t have to buy large plastic bottles of water. This would make a big impact on the plastic that is thrown away by holiday-makers who don’t know for sure that the tap water is safe. Some people may not be too keen on the taste of the tap water, so in this case we recommend either supplying a jug-style water filter, or you could have a filter installed at the tap for constant filtered water and improved taste, there are some very inexpensive options on the market. We also now have the Manilva water dispenser where your guests can refill their large water bottles very cheaply. This can be found on the roundabout just to the east of the post office in Sabinillas. This would drastically cut down on plastic waste, so do let your guests know.

3. Recycling
If you regularly rent out your property to holidaymakers then chances are you already have a folder of information about the local area, attractions, eateries and transport etc. It would be very easy to add another page to your file which tells your guests the location of each type of recycling bins including paper, plastic, tins, cans, tetrapaks (briks) and glass. You might be lucky and have recycling bins on your urbanization, or you may have to drive a couple of minutes away to use them, but either way, encouraging your guests to recycle more will reduce the amount of waste going to landfill. Did you know that it is cheaper for the council to process recycling waste than general household waste? Read more here.

4. Shopping
It is also worth pointing out that many products in local supermarket Mercadona, now have a logo on them to indicate what packaging can be recycled into the yellow bins, and what can’t. You could draw your guests’ attention to this in your info pack, to help them make informed decisions when it comes to shopping and minimising their waste. Other examples include the best stores to buy packaging-free and the best stores for organic or eco products. Aldi, for example, sells 100% recycled toilet roll and the ‘zero’ eggs which are fully free range and come in recycled card boxes instead of plastic. You could also point them in the direction of our reusable fruit & veg bagssold and delivered locally 🙂 We can help with further information so please feel free to ask.

We will soon be sharing a downloadable PDF that you can print out and put in your apartments for holiday-makers and guests as well as your own use! Do get in touch if you would like any more help in spreading the word about how to better manage waste both in holiday season and at other times. SHARESHARE ON FACEBOOK

May 15, 2019

Visit to the Urbaser recycling plant, Casares

Vanessa Byrne Environment, Green Living 0

This month we (Sarah and Steph) had the sincere pleasure of attending a meeting at Urbaser, the recycling and sorting plant located between Casares Costa and Casares pueblo. We have been extremely excited to see things first hand and learn more about the exact processes that take place to sort and manage both our household waste and the contents of the various recycling bins from Manilva and surrounding areas. We’re looking forward to bringing that information to you and dispelling a few myths along the way.

We met with Dean Tyler Shelton and his team from the environment department of the Manilva ayuntamiento, as well as representative Oscar Naranjo, Service Plant Manager Juan Carrasco and Collection Service Manager Ignacio Fernandez of Urbaser.

Topics discussed included the current processes for sorting waste and how recent improvements in machinery have resulted in more and more waste being sorted and recycled every year. Of particular interest was Urbaser’s broader goal of ‘zero dumping’ which aims to reduce rejections so that more waste is recycled and ultimately less and less ends up in landfill, ever reducing the environmental impact.

Also discussed was the promotion of recycling at source and how we can encourage each home to do more, whether it be residents, holidaymakers, property owners or occasional visitors – everyone can be reminded to do more recycling. It actually costs the council less for people to use the recycling bins than just using the normal refuse bins due to the ‘Ecoembes‘ system which works to increase the recycling of packaging in Spain via the yellow and blue containers. A similar system applies to the collection and recycling of glass in Spain, Ecovidrio. Both systems have helped Spain reach far beyond the required EU levels of recycling for both plastics and glass – with 76% of plastic waste now being recycled and 79% of Spanish households always recycling glass.

We were reminded that the Urbaser plant processes waste from 516,600 inhabitants which means the treatment of 350,000 tons of waste a year from the mancommunidad of the western Costa del Sol, which comprises 11 municipalities from Torremolinos to Manilva. In Manilva alone, there are 108 yellow recycling containers (plastics, tins, and cartons) and 89 blue recycling containers (paper and card) – meaning that most inhabitants are never more than a 3-4 minute drive at most from being able to easily recycle the majority of household waste.

After the meeting, we had the opportunity to visit the various processing areas of the plant ranging from the recyclable materials that are extracted from normal household waste, as well as the specific processing areas for plastics, tins, cartons, paper, and glass.

Visiting the site first hand brings several things into light, but first and foremost the work that is carried out at the plant and their 170 employees is immense and really very awe-inspiring. Secondly, it is a stark reminder that there is a lot of work still to be done to drastically reduce our waste and recycle much more.

We have a lot more information, stats and advice to provide since our visit to the plant, so look out for our further blog posts and articles to follow. We welcome your comments, questions and feedback.

April 27, 2019

Meeting with ACOSOL, our local water board, Marbella, Apr 2019

Vanessa Byrne Environment, Green Living 0

This month, April 2019, Steph and Sarah attended a meeting with Manilva Councillor for the Environment, Dean Tyler Shelton at the ACOSOL office in Marbella to discuss the water supply and sanitation in Manilva. There we met the CEO, Manuel Cardeña.

Topics discussed included: The responsible consumption of water, the promotion of their use of recycled water for cleaning and golf course irrigation, the exceptional quality of the water (among the ten best in the country), and the problems arising from blockages and damage caused by the incorrect disposal of baby wipes and other similar products down the toilet, which currently costs the water board €600,000 per year.

Another topic discussed was the taste of the water. It has been proposed that a tasting session will soon be carried out at the Acosol supply point. We’ll bring you further news on that as we have it.

Also discussed was the recent start of the renovation, improvement and expansion project of the supply service in Manilva, which will involve the expansion and adaptation of the current supply system in the Manilva area. Works were signed off in March this year and are due to be completed in 6-8 months time. An investment of €1,115,990.38 has been awarded the project and it is thought that there is a good chance that the completed works could result in better tasting water.

Our intentions for attending the meeting were based on wanting to understand more about the water quality and what is being done to improve water efficiency so we can share the information and knowledge to members of the public in our local area. We’re pleased with how the meeting went. Look out for our next blog post in which we will expand on the issues discussed.

March 17, 2019

5 Ways to Reduce Your Household Waste

Vanessa Byrne Green Living, Zero Waste Ideas 0

Awareness of the plastic pollution problem has grown a huge amount this year, with the increase in footage reaching us through many TV, video and social networks. However, it’s not all about the plastic.

The great Pacific ‘garbage patch’ found in the north Pacific ocean around 30 years ago is suspected to now be anywhere between the size of Texas and Russia, depending on which analysis and methods of measurement you refer to.

This patch of waste is filled not only with plastic and microplastics but with all kinds of waste, most of which has degraded into smaller pieces making it easily digested by marine life and therefore entering the foodchain.

As you start to reduce your use of plastic, it’s natural to become more aware of all kinds of waste that we generate at both home and the workplace.

The Zero Waste gurus like Bea Johnson (writer of highly recommended guide to sustainable living Zero Waste Home) and many others such as Kathryn Kellogg from Going Zero Waste have mastered the art of reducing their waste to such an extent that, after recycling, reusing and composting, they can fit a year’s worth of remaining waste into a 500ml mason jar.

So with that in mind, we’ve put together these 5 ways you can start to reduce your household waste, today.

1. Home composting

There are many blogs and websites online that can help you learn about home composting in your climate. The methods used in cooler climes don’t always apply to warmer ones so do your research and do what you can. Even if you live in an apartment, there are ways to speed up your organic waste degradation so you can create compost for potted plants etc. And those with a garden can even bury waste such as vegetable peelings and banana skin directy into troughs in the ground. If you live on an urbanisation, speak to your president about ways that community composting can me managed. If you happen to have neighbours with goats, horses or rabbits for example, talk to them about what food waste you could pass their way too.

2. Meal planning to reduce wasted food

I know we’re guilty in our house of not thinking about meal planning very well and sometimes allowing food to be wasted. This is most often in the form of leftovers never getting used and so thrown away as the mold starts to form, or tins of things being opened for a meal and then not completely used up. It pains me every time and yet we carry on doing it. So now we’re making a better meal plan for the week, shopping more efficiently and we’re more careful with portion size in the first place as well. Not wasting food can be tricky with a five-year-old whose tastes seem to change like the wind! But some thoughtful adjustments can definitely make a difference.

3. Food packaging

For the most part if you cook everything from scratch then you will immediately see a reduction in your food packaging waste. And if you recycle and home compost then your bin is likely to remain pretty low for most of the week. However, it’s not always as simple as that. It does take time to hunt out the places close to you that don’t cover everything in plastic. From meat to veg, to plastic egg boxes, once you see it you can’t unsee it! Try getting your fruit and veg and eggs from local shops or farm shops (and take your own reusable bags of course!) and if you can get your meat from a butchers who are likely to only use waxed paper as wrapping then you’ve at least avoided unnecessary plastic trays often found in supermarkets.

4. Wipes

Moving from the kitchen into the bathroom, let’s look at wipes. I wasn’t so eco-conscious when my child was newborn and I do appreciate the feeling that you need wipes at arms length for at least the first 3-4 years. But our grandparents didn’t have wipes and didn’t need them. Remember the smell of your grandmother wiping your face with a dob of spit on her hankie? It was of course her version of a handy wipe. Better than the astringent alcohol and perfume and certainly much less waste! But kids and grandparents aside, face wipes are another place you can make the change to reduce your household waste. I stopped using them over 6 months ago and now and find a warm flannel and soap bar far better for my skin. Whether for children, faces, cleaning or spillages, having a supply of flannels and reusable cloths around the house that you can wash and use again makes much more sense than creating waste with disposables.

5. Bottled water

Whilst this one is gaining much more awareness now and many people we speak to have already made the switch to water filters and reusable bottles, it’s still worth mentioning. Try to plan ahead and if you know you’re going to be out and about for some time, be sure to carry a reusable bottle with you and fill it from home. In Spain in the summer we’re more than aware that bottled water kept on you all day can become warm, so invest in a stainless steel bottle that will work as a thermos and with a couple of ice cubes added will keep water cold all day. If you do use plastic reusable bottles, look out for ones that are BPA free so avoid any unnecessary risk of leaching those nasties into your water. Keep an eye out for our new range of reusable water bottles coming soon.

That wraps up our list for now, there will be another five ways to consider reducing your waste in the next post in our series.

Please comment below and let us know what changes you have made for your #ecojourney and any others you would like to recommend.

February 4, 2019

Solid shampoos and how to use them

Vanessa Byrne Eco-Friendly Products, Zero Waste Ideas 0

I’ve been using solid shampoo since December 2017 and now I will never go back. It’s already such a great feeling knowing I have prevented several plastic bottles going to landfill. Sometimes we think that our small actions will not make enough difference, but, collectively they will.

Here’s the sum I go by: Let’s say you know 50 people and they are all going to stop using bottled shampoo for the rest of their lives. Give or take some difference in their ages, it’s going to add up to roughly 360 bottles per person which makes at least 18,000 bottles – and that’s not counting conditioner. So if all those people then know others who might be willing to give up bottled shampoo, the ripple effect continues and fewer bottles end up in landfill. Hooray.

Another huge advantage of using natural solid shampoo bars is that you eliminate the use of some harsh detergents and chemical additives (such as sodium lauryl sulphate and 1,4 dioxane etc.) which are well-reported to be particularly bad for you and are found in so many personal care products. And yet another good reason to switch is that many of the big brands test on animals, which we’re not very fond of at Eco Passion.

But, what’s it really like?

Is it as good as bottled shampoo or expensive brands you may struggle to part with? In my opinion, I’d say it’s just different and so an adjustment needs to be made in your expectations and also how you may manage your hair as a result. It also, of course, depends quite a lot on your hair type.

My hair is long and typically tends to have greasy roots and dry ends. I tried a few different brands including Bio Nature which you can buy from Carrefour, but at Eco Passion we have settled on shampoo bars that are handmade in London and are 100% natural, vegan and not tested on animals. They come in a variety of types which suit a variety of hair types – you can TODO: Add Solid Shampoo Link read the descriptions for more information.

There is a bit of a knack to using them as well.

Before I switched I read a few articles on how to get the best results and since using them myself, I have found this to be the best method:

– First of all, make sure your hair is very thoroughly wet through
– Then take the shampoo bar and wet it like a normal soap
– Then rub the shampoo block around the edges of your hairline and, for long hair, divide your hair down the centre or in three sections and rub onto scalp
– From here you can pop the shampoo down and get your fingers to work on your scalp and give yourself a nice massage while generating a good lather. I usually add a couple of handfuls of extra water at this point
– This method produces a surprising amount of lather so you can use less or more shampoo according to your preference
– Do make sure you rinse thoroughly with plenty of water
– Hair will feel squeaky clean once you have rinsed all the lather off

What about conditioner you ask?

We stock the Funky Soap solid conditioner for normal hair. I have greasy roots and dry ends and so find this one works really well for me. It feels odd at first as it doesn’t feel as though anything is happening as there are no suds etc. I just rub the bar down the length of my hair, but not onto the scalp, and try to make sure to focus on the ends, then rinse as normal. When you come to brush your hair once you’ve towel dried it, then you can notice the softness from the solid conditioner. The shampoo and conditioner bars really compliment one another.

Do I need to rinse?

If you’re experiencing a transition stage (it took me about 6 weeks!) then you may find it works well for you to use a rinse. I have read about homemade bicarb and apple cider vinegar remedies that work as a rinse and provide extra softness so I will look out for some good recipes and make another blog post about them.

If you have any suggestions, tips or experience with solid shampoos, conditioners or plastic-free alternatives then please comment below. And to buy our solid shampoos and conditioner, you can find them here.

January 11, 2019

5 Ways To Reduce Your Use of Plastic

Vanessa Byrne Green Living, Zero Waste Ideas 0

At Eco Passion we’re constantly working to reduce our use of plastic and some things are definitely easier to implement than others. If you’re thinking about making this the year you reduce your plastic waste then take a look at these tips for using less plastic in your daily life.

Use powder clothes detergent

Probably like me you’ve used powdered clothes detergent in the past and are not too sure why you switched to liquid. Well, now it’s time to switch back. Ditch the big plastic bottles and cups and go back to the cardboard boxes. Both can be recycled, but if the cardboard ends up elsewhere then at least it will biodegrade. The powdered form can often be cheaper too so the money you save can be used toward buying a more eco brand that won’t be so harmful on the environment. We hope to soon be able to offer you eco-friendly detergents, so watch this space.

Use a bamboo toothbrush

We’ve started testing our new eco products and can wholeheartedly recommend the bamboo toothbrush from Hydrophil. It’s made from fast-growing bamboo that’s sustainably sourced in China and used to make a variety of brushes for both adults and children. If you buy bamboo toothbrushes for children you are potentially saving a lifetime of single-use plastic from hitting landfill or, even worse, the ocean. Our family has converted this year, will yours? Admittedly there is still some way to go before we have an environmentally sound solution to using nylon for the bristles, but one small step is the brush handle and we think that’s a big step in the right direction. Buy your bamboo toothbrush here.

Use re-usable fruit & veg bags

How many times have you been to the supermarket with your bags for life or tote bags but have struggled to come up with a solution for bagging up the loose fruit and veg? When I used to get home with those extra plastic bags I didn’t want or need, it prompted me to find a solution. Our favourite solution at Eco Passion is using Bitsybags. These are lightweight, strong and stylish bags that are fully manufactured in Portugal from engineering grade nylon. They are so versatile and don’t have to be solely used for fruit and veg. They are a great reusable alternative to plastic you can use on many occasions. They are likely to last you a lifetime, which is a LOT of plastic bags saved at the supermarket.

Use solid soaps instead of shower gel

Sometimes it is a small shift in behaviour that you just might not have thought of before that will lead to hundreds of plastic bottles being prevented from ending up in landfill or worse. If I do the small calculation of using one shower gel bottle a month over my life so far from age 18 to now – that’s at least 264 plastic bottles I could have avoided using and I don’t plan to ever buy another plastic bottle of shower gel in my lifetime. That’s just one person and one example, but it ALL makes a difference. Of course, what will make even more of a difference is switching to solid shampoo and conditioner – look out for a separate article about that coming soon but you can take browse our personal care products in the meantime.

Use non-plastic air fresheners

This one would not have applied to me at all a while ago, I have never liked the smell of any type of air freshener in my home. But something has changed recently and I now like to have a gentle scent wafting about the place. This again might be an obvious one, but if you start to change your focus on one area then it naturally spreads into others. I am currently using the scent diffusers with wooden sticks and after sniffing every single one in the Natura shop in Málaga recently, I have finally found one I like. I use the Cerabella Mikado No.6 (Orchid & Patchouli) which comes in a cardboard tube with a glass bottle and wooden lid.

Let us know in the comments what changes you have made toward plastic-free and low waste living.

Vanessa Byrne

About Vanessa Byrne

Posts by Vanessa Byrne:

1. Take a reusable water bottle with you

2. Take reusable cutlery with you

3. Bring your own reusable cup

4. Always carry a reusable bag (or two or three!)

Challenge yourself, can you:

But, what’s it really like?

There is a bit of a knack to using them as well.

What about conditioner you ask?

Do I need to rinse?

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