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● Laura Thornberry ● Lifestyle Blogger ● London Based ●

 AD| Throughout the Coronavirus pandemic, many individuals have begun creating their own small businesses and opportunities to help them financially whilst struggling to survive due to job loss, reduced wages or being put on furlough. Running a small business might seem extremely easy, but did you know it can have a surprisingly big impact on the environment? Whether these businesses include selling homemade food, jewellery making, selling artwork or even offering online assistance, there are many ways to help your small business be more eco-friendly and sustainable for the future.

SUSTAINABLE BUSINESS

For those small businesses selling physical products, using eco-friendly packaging is a great way to begin making your brand more sustainable. Packaging is an important visual part of your brand experience and it's how your customers first come into contact with your products. Having sustainable packaging is important as it helps to reduce the footprint in the product's life-cycle. By making it from biodegradable or sustainable materials, you’ll leave an even better impression on those consumers who choose to shop sustainably and want to make a positive impact on the environment. Companies such as Tyler Packaging are specialist suppliers of paper and plastic flexible packaging for items such as food, pet food, garden & leisure and industrial products. They also have a 100% recyclable packaging range and a compostable packaging range, with an overall strong focus on waste manage and encouraging a circular economy.

Another way to make your small business more sustainable is to aim to go paperless when it comes to invoices, delivery notes and receipts. By having everything online, with things such as billing and paperwork, it drastically cuts down on paper waste and keeps everything virtual, meaning important documents are less likely to get lost. However, there is definitely times where we need to physically write or type things onto paper, and for this, supplying your home or office with some sustainably sourced recycled paper helps keep your business eco-friendly.

For those who's businesses are ran from home or small offices, your working environment can also be made sustainable with a few easier steps. Firstly, by reducing the amount of electricity you use is not only good for the environment, it’s also good for your bank account. Making sure to switch off any lights or equipment whilst they’re not being used, use laptops as they use less energy instead of desktops, and make sure the temperature of the room is suitable for the time of the year. Another way to make your office more sustainable is by adding some plants and greenery to help brighten up your office, as well as helping to make the air cleaner and healthier to breathe.

Finally, making sure to research suppliers for your products, whether that's cooking ingredients, clothing fabrics or other materials, you should always be on the lookout for a more sustainable option. By making sure to keep your products as ethically and sustainably sources as possible, this will help to reduce your carbon footprint and make sure you're being as environmentally friendly as possible. Consumers of products are much more aware of the items they are purchasing, and many are opting to choose brands that do their best to protect and save the environment from unnecessary harm.

What other ways can small businesses become more sustainable?
10:00 No comments

AD – GIFTED| Are you looking at ways you can begin to have a more sustainable period? Did you even know there are more eco-friendly period products on offer?

The term 'sustainable periods' simply means you're actively changing the products you are using and making a conscious effort to reduce the amount of waste that your periods produce, especially plastics and single-use items. For those who menstruate, and deal with regular periods, the products we choose to use during this time is completely individual, and ultimately, what works for some people, might not work for others. Sanitary pads, followed closely by the use of tampons, are probably the most frequently chosen period products that are used by consumers, but did you know there are other options too? Listed below are 4 sustainable and eco-friendly period products worth trying now.


— Reusable Sanitary Pads —
Reusable sanitary pads are a great way to begin your switch over to having a more sustainable and eco-friendly period. There are a number of reasons to make the switch to reusable pads;
  • Reusable pads decrease the amount of plastic waste that is created.
  • Reusable pads are a much cheaper, and more long-lasting period product compared to regular disposable sanitary pads.
  • Reusable pads are typically much safer to use than regular sanitary pads, as regular pads can sometimes cause skin irritation and contain chemicals.
I was recently sent a box of the Trade To Aid Reusable Sanitary Pads to try out and see if they could help me change up the products I use and to have a more sustainable period. The pack of reusable sanitary pads include a variety of different sized pads, depending on your period flow and the absorbancy that you require. You receive 2 light flow, 2 medium flow and 2 heavy flow reusable pads along with 1 waterproof wet bag to store them in after use. These sanitary pads are suitable for both day and nighttime use, leak-proof and are super comfortable to wear. 

Trade To Aid Reusable Sanitary Pads

The 6 pack of reusable sanitary pads are retailing at £29.97 for 6 – this may seem like a lot of money, but by using them time and time again. These seem to be a more affordable option as you are not constantly buying disposable period pads. As a bonus, for every pack of reusable pads that are purchased from Trade To Aid, they then donate a pack to a refugee or those in desperate need of sanitary. This campaign is in place with the aim to end period poverty to eliminate the taboos surrounding periods.

 — Menstrual Cups —
In recent years, the menstrual cup has quickly become a popular sustainable period product to use as an alternative to regular tampons and sanitary pads. The majority of menstrual cups produced now are made from either silicone or rubber, making them reusable, durable and long-lasting. Menstrual cups typically give you longer lasting protection on your period's heavier days, and can usually hold 2-3 times more than a regular tampon or pad. Reusable menstrual cups are a great option for those looking for affordable, safe and effective period products, as they can typically last for between 6 months to a number of years with proper care and use.

— Washable and Reusable Period Pants —
Another sustainable option includes washable and reusable period pants. Over the last few years, many well-known menstrual care brands have been launching period-proof underwear for sale – including online brands like WUKA and Flux Undies, as well as high street brands, Primark and M&S. Most brands have incorporated a variety of styles of period underwear into their production line, including high-waisted briefs to boxer style shorts and even thongs. By having a range of different styles, this allows you to pick styles according to your preferences, and to test and try out multiple products, in order for you to find what is most comfortable and most effective for you. Typically, period pants are manufactured to be leak-proof – perfect for those suffering with heavy flows, as they are designed by using a super-absorbent fabric which is often odour-eliminating too.

— Reusable Tampon Applicators —
Reusable tampon applicators are something I only discovered towards the end of 2021. A reusable tampon applicator is a great alternative to single-use applicator tampons, and are perfect for those who are looking to reduce their use of plastics. Reusable tampon applications are extremely easy to clean and sterilize – you simply rinse with warm water and soap during your period, and sterilize them with boiling water for 5 minutes between your periods. They are also typically made from medical grade material, making them extremely durable and long-lasting, allowing them to be used again and again. They take a little while to get use to, but once you are confident with using them, it's incredible quick and easy.

reusable tampon applicator

Last year,  Lil-Lets made the decision to cease production of all their plastic applicator tampons – saving over 11 tonnes of period waste from landfill or the oceans each year. The new Lil-Lets reusable tampon applicator comes with a money-back guarantee – and will be sold at the introductory price of £12.99 until March 31st, 2022. From then on, they will retail at £17.99. So that's another good reason to make the sustainable switch for a more planet-friendly period.

What period products are you currently using? Would you begin to use a more sustainable option?

10:00 No comments
 AD| Looking at renovating your kitchen but have no idea where to start? Do you want to choose more sustainable and eco-friendly options to help your kitchen last a lifetime?

The entire process of redesigning and renovating your kitchen can be extremely complicated and overwhelming. There are so many things to consider along the way, especially when selecting your appliances, layout, colour schemes and the companies you wish to seek help from. As well as this, you will need to keep in mind the environmental impact of every step of your kitchen renovation, and select your materials, products and design in a more eco-friendly way. In order to create a more sustainable kitchen, you need to ensure you are incredibly careful and thoughtful during the planning stage, so that it remains timeless and durable for years into the future. For those who may need a little inspiration, here are 4 ways to update and renovate your kitchen sustainably.

KITCHEN DESIGN

    LED Lighting Options
LED lighting is probably the most energy-efficient and eco-friendly way to brighten up your kitchen work space. Not only can they help to improve the look and ambience of any room, they are also incredibly environmentally friendly, long-lasting and extremely energy efficient when it comes to lighting options. Picking LED lights is a more sustainable option, as there is no guilt of wasting energy as they typically boast a life-span of up to 10,000 hours. Another huge benefit of opting for LED lights in your home is that there are a wide variety of different styles and colours to choose from, to suit your own personal interior design preferences and chosen colour scheme.

Buy Second-hand
A brand-new kitchen might seem like the perfect choice when it comes to your renovation, but, why not consider looking into buying second-hand from a specialist dealer? Second-hand kitchen options can save you lots of money —and they are a great eco-friendly, sustainable option too. By going for a second-hand option, this allows buyers to afford top designer kitchens that their initial budgets may not have catered for, as you are able to save a lot of money on the RRP. UKE are well known for their high quality ex-display and used kitchens. Also, it may be worth researching local kitchen suppliers that are close to your home that use sustainable and locally sourced materials to reduce your renovation's carbon footprint. Ultimately, a more sustainable kitchen renovation simple adds more value to your home.

Consider Energy-Efficient Appliances
When you begin browsing and shopping around for new appliances to add into your kitchen, such as washing machines, refrigerators, dishwashers and ovens, try to look at the most energy efficient options, instead of the cheapest. Many large kitchen appliances use a lot of electricity, which may increase your annual bill, especially if they have a low efficiency grade. So, even though the initial upfront cost of a more energy-efficient appliance may be more money, over time, it'll be a more sustainable option as you will end up saving on your energy bills.

Choose Eco-Friendly Paints
A quick fresh paint job can completely change the atmosphere of your kitchen and help give it a whole new lease on life. Painting is one of the easiest and more affordable tasks that you will have in your renovation project. To be more environmental friendly, opt for non-toxic paints made from natural organic ingredients, as these will be much safer to use, more breathable and will have a less damaging impact on the environment. Natural paints are also a great choice as they typically dry faster and have fewer odours, making them safer for your health.

Are you currently planning a kitchen renovation? What other sustainable options are there to include in your project?
09:00 1 comments
 With Valentine's Day only a short time away, it's time to treat and invest in yourself by choosing some gorgeous, luxury lingerie pieces. Whether it's a single girl's night in, or you're in a happy, healthy relationship, selecting new lingerie can be extremely confidence-boosting, empowering and sexy – especially if your current underwear collection isn't too great.

Nowadays, there are so many brands out there who offer a whole range of stunning lingerie sets in a variety of styles and at affordable prices. Valentine's Day is a great opportunity to take the plunge and freshen up your lingerie collection, by adding some new styles or colours to your collection. You can never, ever, go wrong with a matching set. One of my favourite places online to get my hands on something new is Lounge Underwear. Not only do they have a great size range available, but they have a number of incredible designs, in a wide variety of vibrant colours – it's incredibly hard to not buy everything from the website!


When it comes to Valentine's Day, the first colour that comes to mind is red. Red is typically associated with love and romance, making it a great colour option for new lingerie. Red is a great option for all skin tones, and will make an incredibly bold, yet sexy addition to your collection. A new style from Lounge includes the Sustainable Liberty Balcony Bra & Thong Set in Red. Red lace is just absolutely stunning, and, the dainty rose gold ‘L’ charm detail just adds that extra little sparkle.

Lounge Underwear Lingerie

If red isn't your colour, then black lingerie is definitely a universal lingerie collection staple. Black is such a powerful option when it comes to lingerie sets, it's undoubtedly a confidence boosting colour, whatever your size or shape. It evokes a feeling of authority, elegance with some added sexiness. What's not to love? I opted for a new style from the website, and chose the Sustainable Vogue Balcony Bra & Thong Set in Black – featuring silver Lounge engraved hardware for that added sparkle, and a Soft stretch lace with Lounge jacquard mesh for added fine detail.

Lounge Underwear Lingerie

The next few lingerie sets I have selected are going to add some bold colour and vibrancy into your underwear collection, you will really be spoilt for choice here. First things first, cobalt blue – literally one of the most stunning colours I have seen in a long time. Sustainable Liberty Balcony Bra & Thong Set in Cobalt Blue. This set features some intricate floral stretch lace with scalloped edges, again, finished off with the rose gold Lounge engraved hardware and ‘L’ charms will definitely help you make a statement with your underwear choices.

Lounge Underwear Lingerie

My second super colourful addition to my Valentine's lingerie guide is green – a colour that will absolutely suit all skin tones, even from the very pale tones to the deep, rich tones. It's bound to be a winner with everyone, and that's why I had to add the Sustainable Vogue Balcony Bra & Briefs Set in Emerald to my basket. Lounge never miss out any details with their lingerie sets. The double Lounge branded banners adds quite a simple, sporty element to this lingerie set, but the lace really elevates it, to make it something really special.

Lounge Underwear Lingerie

Finally, something a little different, but still incredibly beautiful. Purple lingerie is very hard to come by in my opinion, but again, it's a very bold, feminine colour. When you mix both silk and lace within one lingerie set, it just gives off such sophisticated, classy and elegant vibes and that's exactly what you get with the Sustainable Silk Balcony Bra & Briefs Set in Purple. The intricate floral detailing on the lace panels of the underwired bra and briefs is super cute and girly, and will just make you feel incredible once you've put it on. The rose gold Lounge engraved hardware and 'L' charms really complement the purple shade, and give it that extra little something.

Lounge Underwear Lingerie

Have you tried out Lounge underwear yet? What are your favourite colour and style choices for new lingerie?

10:00 No comments
AD| Glasses are often thought of as a practical item rather than a fashion piece, but that’s the wrong way to look at it. Glasses are no different from any other accessory and you need to match them to the rest of your outfit. Just like any other fashion item, glasses trends change year on year and if you want your look to be relevant, you need to keep up. 

women in glasses

When you are buying glasses, it is obviously important that you get the right lenses so you can see properly, but you also need to consider the style of the frames. Think about the colour and the material and how that fits with your overall style. Does it match your jewellery, for example? The shape is very important as well because wearing the wrong frame shape for your face will give the wrong look.

If you haven’t put much thought into your glasses before and you don’t really know what is fashionable at the moment, check out this list of glasses trends for the coming year. 

sustainable wooden glasses

Sustainable Materials 

Sustainability is big in all industries right now, including fashion and beauty. There are some amazing sustainable fashion brands out there trying to create beautiful pieces made from recyclable materials, and the last few years have seen an explosion in cruelty free, vegan cosmetics. Sustainability is equally important where glasses are concerned because a lot of glasses are made from plastic, which contributes to waste in a big way.


However, there are some great companies making glasses from sustainable materials like wood, and metal has long been a favourite choice for people that want something more durable. There are also brands that make glasses from recycled plastic from the oceans, so you can get a great pair of glasses and help to reduce plastic waste at the same time. So, next time you pick a pair of glasses, think about how they are made and where the materials come from. 

Bold Colour Patterns 

Bold colour patterns are very popular among glasses wearers right now. Although something minimalist can work, a lot of people are choosing to go for patterned frames instead. There are some great brands like Tory Burch, creating amazing lines that combine functionality and design with amazing style. You can check out their range here and see some of the vibrant designs that are available. If you are going to go bold, make sure to think about your overall style. Balance is key, so find colour schemes and patterns that work well with your favourite outfits and your other accessories. 

The Havana style is particularly popular right now, especially during the winter and autumn. These frames are characterised by warm browns and oranges and they’re perfect for anybody that likes to wear natural, earthy tones and is looking for a pair of glasses to match. 

Monochromatic Glasses 

If bold colours don’t suit your style, why not try another one of the latest glasses trends; monochromatic glasses. Monochromatic styles rarely go out of fashion because they’re simple and bold. A lot of people are going for matching frames and lenses, to create a monochromatic look in their eyewear as well. Lenses come in a range of colours, like yellow, sepia, blue, and black, so you can easily match them to the frames. You can still add a bit of pattern to the frames if you don’t want a completely minimalist look, or you can go plain for the simple but stylish effect. 

girl wearing glasses


Clear Glasses

Clear frames can make just as much of a statement as monochromatic or heavily patterned ones. Chunky, clear plastic frames are popular right now and they’re a good choice for anybody that wants a retro style but still wants something classy and elegant. This style works best when matched with simple outfits, but the beauty is, they work with almost anything. You are not tied down by the colour or pattern, so you can match them with any outfits and accessories and they will work just fine. If you don’t want your glasses to take away from the rest of your outfit, clear frames are a good choice. 

Large Frames 

People tend to be a bit scared of large frames when they’re buying glasses, but if you can pull them off, they look amazing. They make a real statement and wearing large glasses is a simple but effective way to change up your look and do something unexpected. Large sunglasses have long been a fashion staple that never really goes out of style, but you will get the same effect if you go big with your normal glasses too. If you are going to opt for large frames, it may be best to go for something plain. If you notice, most large sunglasses are plain black rather than having heavily patterned frames. This is because they can be overpowering if they are large and very brightly coloured. You don’t want your glasses to steal the show, but you do still want them to make a statement, so find a good balance and go for large, plain frames. 

Slim Frames 

Don’t worry if you don’t like the idea of wearing large frames and you want something more understated. You can still keep up with the latest trends because slim frames are still set to be very popular in the coming year. They are particularly good for people with an oval or triangular shaped face, but the style suits most people. Simple half frames or round glasses with a thin metal or wooden frame are very popular at the minute. These styles still offer the opportunity to add a burst of colour, so if you like the idea of monochromatic glasses but you don’t want anything that draws too much attention, look for a slim frame. 

However, if you have a round face, it’s best to avoid round frames. They will only exacerbate your face shape and highlight the soft edges too much. It’s better to wear square frames with sharper angles to balance things out a bit. There are some great square styles with slim frames out there and these are much better suited to anybody with a round face shape. 

girl wearing glasses


Aviators

If you want a retro look that is still contemporary, you’re in luck because aviators are making a big comeback. They are always a popular choice for sunglasses but now they’re becoming fashionable for people that wear eyeglasses too. They’re perfect for people with a square shaped face because, even though they have a lot of length to them and they are quite bold, the rounded edges help to balance the shape of the face. They’re the perfect style for somebody that wants an everyday pair of glasses that offers something different and still makes a big statement, without being overpowering. This trend comes back around every few years, so a good pair of aviators will stand you in good stead. 

Choosing glasses is more difficult than people think. Before you start looking at any frames, it’s important that you know what your face shape is so you can select the right style. You should be looking for frames that balance your face shape instead of amplifying it. Once you have a clear idea of the shape, you can then start experimenting with some of these great eyewear trends to see what works for you. Just remember to consider your outfit as a whole and pick glasses that fit with your overall style. 

Follow these simple steps and your glasses become an amazing accessory rather than a functional item that you hate wearing. 


What are your favourite styles of sunglasses?
15:09 No comments
AD| Plastics are causing a multitude of issues in our oceans and natural environments, ultimately contributing to health problems in humans and animals. They can last around in the environment for such a long time; with specific plastic items can take up to 1,000 years to decompose - causing problems with threatening wildlife, spreading toxins, and contributes to factors such as global warming. 

Becoming more eco friendly at home, living a more sustainable life and helping preserve the environment may seem like it can be a lot of work, but by changing a few parts of your daily routine can make such a big impact. Whether you start to recycle paper, glass and plastics, purchase loose fruit and vegetables on your weekly shop or even use sustainable coffee pods, all these small changes really add up in the long run.

environment

 An easy switch for many of us coffee lovers would be being more careful with the type of plastic coffee pods we purchase for our coffee machines. Just by spending a few minutes researching about the materials used in an everyday items like coffee pods, and making sure they are biodegradable and sustainable will help protect the environment. 

Switching to a brand like Halo coffee pods is a small change with a big impact. They sell their products with the claim - "The world's best coffees, in a way that's best for the world". The founders of Halo are on a mission to not only make great coffee but also to rid the world of discarded plastic and aluminium coffee capsules. With its fully recyclable range of coffee capsules made from waste sugarcane, these coffee pods are super eco-friendly, will degrade in as little as four weeks and you'll still end up with a greatest tasting cup of coffee.

halo coffee pods

Single use plastic pollution is probably the most widespread problem in our current ocean and marine ecosystem. Marine species such as turtles, birds and fish are ingesting/entangled by plastic debris such as straws and food/drink containers, which causes severe injuries and can lead to a significant amount of deaths. Not only does this affect ocean health, this type of pollution can also affect food safety and quality, human health, coastal tourism, and contributes to climate change.

As well as single use plastics, microplastics also have such damaging effects on people, animals and the environment. Microplastics affects our food chain,  including the soils where we grow food, in the water we drink and the air we breathe. Ingested microplastic particles can physically damage organs and expose hazardous chemicals, leading to health and environmental problems.

As a whole, I think it's important that we act differently, efficiently and be more knowledgeable around environmental issues in the world and how we can be more eco friendly at home. By changing small parts of our routines, research into new products or adapting the way we shop, these little steps can have a big impact on the world around us and help to change the way we deal with products/materials in the environment.

What changes have you made to be more eco-friendly and to help the environment?
18:18 No comments
 Energy efficiency and sustainable living are one of the greatest areas of concern for homeowners. They are constantly looking out for innovative ways to reduce their carbon footprint and maintain a comfortable living environment. Air source heat pumps are an efficient system that helps one to get the desired heating in an eco-friendly way. These pumps have both heating and cooling capabilities. They provide multiple benefits to homeowners. In this blog, we are going to discuss and explore the top five advantages of installing an air-to-air heat pump in your home.

globe

Energy Efficiency
One of the greatest advantages of air-to-air heat pumps is the energy efficiency feature. These systems operate by transferring heat between the indoor and outdoor environments. They do not generate heat through combustion or electrical resistance. Thus, by harnessing renewable energy in the air, the heat pumps meet the heat requirement while saving energy impressively. With one unit of electricity consumed an air-to-air heat pump can produce nearly three units of heat.

Cost Savings
You can save big time on your energy bills with air-source heat pumps. The air source heat pump does not consume much electricity as compared to traditional heating systems. The free heat energy in the air is used to generate heat. Thus, homeowners can experience substantial cost savings in their heating and cooling expenses throughout the year.

Versatility and Convenience
The air source heat pump is versatile. These systems have both heating and cooling features. During the colder months, the heat pump extracts heat from the outside air and transfers it indoors. The system operates in reverse during hot days by removing heat from the indoor air and expelling it outside. This dual functionality eliminates the need for separate heating and cooling systems. Thus, air-to-air pumps offer convenience to homeowners.

eco friendly

Environmentally Friendly
Air-to-air heat pumps are environmentally friendly heating and cooling solutions. They help you to significantly lower your carbon footprint. These pumps encourage the use of renewable energy to meet our daily needs. Hence,

by opting for an air-source heat pump you can actively contribute to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Government Incentives and Rebates
To encourage the adoption of energy-efficient technologies, many governments and utility companies offer incentives and rebates for installing air-to-air heat pumps. These incentives act as a great motivator and help you to offset the initial cost of installation. By taking advantage of incentives and rebates you can make the most of your air source heat pumps cost-effectively.

The Key Takeaway
Installing an air-to-air heat pump in your home provides you with numerous benefits. These systems are not only advanced and offer optimum results, but they are also eco-friendly. As the world embraces sustainable solutions, air-source heat pumps are an effective way to reduce energy consumption and minimise environmental impact. By investing in this technology, homeowners can enjoy year-round comfort while minimising their utility bills. Consider installing an air-to-air heat pump in your home and reap the rewards of a more sustainable and efficient heating and cooling system.
12:51 No comments
 AD| Recycling at doesn't have to be a time consuming and complicated process. The best place to begin making a difference to the environment is right in your very own home. You'd be surprised with the amount of household packaging waste that can actually be reused and upcycled. By putting more thought into the way you manage your household waste, you'll be able to save money, reduce the amount of waste you're piling up and have a less damaging impact on the environment. 

Being more eco-friendly, sustainable and preserving our environment are becoming more important and more necessary than ever. Simply by incorporating a few small changes in your daily routine can really help look after our environment and reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills and our oceans.

home recycling

Glass Jars
You can recycle any glass jar for a number uses, but I've found that some are more useful than others based on their size and shape. Glass packaging is definitely better than purchasing plastic, so next time your in the supermarket, see if you can be more sustainable with the way you shop. Some good examples of glass jars that a great to be reused include pasta sauce jars, dessert pots, chutney and jam jars and salad dressing bottles. These glass jars can be used for a multitude of things including storage for dry food items, containers for your overnight oats, or making your own jams, chutneys or sauces to be stored away.

Cardboard Boxes
Cardboard makes up a huge percentage of household waste from Amazon parcels, shoe boxes and cereal boxes, you can often find yourself stacking up quite the mountain. However, cardboard boxes can be extremely handy in the home and can be reused and recycled for a number of things. For example, cardboard boxes can donated to small business or even be used for storage, presenting birthday presents and gifts, and even artwork. Bespoke packaging is totally custom-designed, and could be something to research/be of interest if you're using your cardboard boxes to present gifts for loved ones. You could design and tailor the box for any occasion, and it could end up being a completely unique gift box that didn't cost a penny.

Egg Boxes
You may never have thought of ways egg boxes can be reused in the home, but there are a few simple things you can do than require them. Firstly, if you have children, you can use the egg boxes for arts and craft activities to keep them occupied. They can be cut up and made into different models or even used as a paint palette. Another idea for reusing egg boxes could be using them as storage holders for little bits and bobs you have lying around the house. For example, you could use them for storing jewellery, stationary or even decorative tools such as nails, nuts and bolts.

Glass Bottles
Glass is better than plastic when packaging pretty much anything. It's definitely much stronger, more durable and can be reused in a number of ways, you'd be surprised. Make sure to rinse them out before upcycling into something new. A few creative ideas include using the bottle as a vase for flowers, use them as candlestick holders, insert some fairy lights and use as a table centrepiece or even fill them with oil and add chilli or garlic to infuse with flavour.

Wine Corks
For those who love some wine in the evenings, saving the corks for your bottles could come in handy, especially if you're very artistic and creative. Wine corks can be used for a number of quick and easy DIY projects, where the end result can be simply stunning. You can create your own cork stamps, use the corks to decorate picture frames or even create your very home art installation feature by filling a large glass container with plenty of wine corks. 

What other ways do you recycle your household waste?
10:00 No comments
AD| If you're looking to upgrade the lighting in your home in a more eco-friendly way, whilst saving money on your energy bills, and having full control over the design of your home, LED lighting might be the best solution for you. 

LEDs or light emitting diodes are a perfect lighting option for a number of reasons, as they have such great benefits. Not only can they help to improve the look and ambience of any room, they are also incredibly environmentally friendly, long-lasting and extremely energy efficient when it comes to lighting options. 

LED LIGHTING

The number one benefit of using LED lights in your home is for their energy efficiency. "In fact, according to a 2016 Goldman Sachs report, “the rapid adoption of LEDs in lighting marks one of the fastest technology shifts in human history.” LED lighting emits very little heat in comparison to a traditional light bulb, resulting in far less energy to produce the same amount of light. Making sure to purchase good quality LED lights use around 90% less energy, and last around 20 times longer than traditional light bulbs, making them one of the smartest options to choose when it comes to indoor or outdoor lighting!

Another huge benefit of opting for LED lighting in your home is that there are a wide variety of different styles to choose from, to suit your own personal interior design preferences. Most electrical stores have everything from LED bulbs and strip lights to LED panels, as well as neon lighting if you're looking to inject some serious colour into your home. As well as indoor LED lights, outdoor lighting is also available with many products being both weather and water-resistant. So for those upgrading their gardens with the use of fairy lights or festoon bulbs, LEDs are definitely something to consider.

LED light sources are a sustainable and eco-friendly option due to their durability, longevity and low-maintenance. LEDs last much longer than older types of lighting, with the average lightbulb lasting anywhere from 25,000 - 50,000 hours. The longer lifespan of LED lighting options has a positive impact on the environment, resulting in less waste and preventing electrical items being thrown away due to poor quality. A longer lifetime of these lighting options means less time wasted on continuously purchasing and changing bulbs. 

Something we all strive for is saving more money, and LED lighting is a great alternative lighting option for those wanting to cut costs of their energy bills. Although LEDs are probably one of the most expensive type of lighting you'll find in the shops, over a long-term period, they'll definitely be a more of an investment, as well as a more sustainable and budget friendly option due to their power saving properties. LED lights require much less electricity than both traditional incandescent or halogen light bulbs, helping to keep your energy bills down over a long period of time. LED lights are super easy to install into existing sockets in your home and you will notice significant savings straight away from the first use.

Are you looking to upgrade your homes lighting? Have you considered switching to LED lights?
10:00 No comments

AD| Are you on the lookout for a new, comfortable everyday casual shoe to add to your collection? Why not consider Loom trainers.

When it comes to everyday footwear, you need something that is comfortable, stylish, versatile and also waterproof. The Loom trainers range is a collaboration between leading footwear designers, podiatrists, engineers and ergonomic specialists, working together to bring us the perfect all-terrain trainer. A great selling point includes the fact they are available for purchase in both men's and women's sizes, with the option of black or white style. Let's take a look at 5 reasons Loom trainers are the perfect everyday casual footwear choice for your shoe collection.

outdoor trainers

Waterproof
Loom utilises a number of key materials to achieve its aim of making its shoe so versatile, one of those being Merino wool. The Merino wool is encased in Loom’s H2-Go waterproof layer, ensuring the entire shoe remains completely waterproof. Our waterproof and moisture-wicking technology allows our shoes to be one of the most advanced in the market.

Anti-Odour
Loom Contains moisture-wicking material and antimicrobial properties that destroy bacteria in sweat that creates Odour, keeping your feet fresh at all times. With both antibacterial and anti-odour properties, you can say goodbye to smelly feet for good! It’s also extremely easy to clean and keep fresh, thanks to its ability to repel any liquids, dirt or grime, so your shoes will always look their best.
 
Loom Trainers


Breathable
There is nothing worse than hot and sweaty feet on a hot summer's day, so Loom trainers might be a great option if you want something lightweight and breathable. It’s able to regulate temperature to keep feet warm in the winter and cool in the summer.  Made with materials that absorb and release moisture from the air so that your feet will never feel moist or sweaty again! 

Sustainable
Loom Footwear is manufactured with sustainability in mind, and this is what makes them stand out from other brands of all-terrain trainers. These waterproof  trainers are made using eco-friendly materials and sustainable practices. Made with cruelty-free material sourced from some of the most eco-friendly farms in the world. Which, in turn, reduces each pair’s carbon footprint by over 500%. Incredible right?!

Loom Trainers

Comfortable
Through thorough trials and multiple rounds of testing, Loom have created the perfect cushioning system to maximize comfort and support for your feet. Loom’s specialist Excelcast sole is the main source of its support and comfort. This was developed by leading podiatrists to ensure maximum support for the foot and to deliver maximum energy return. Leading to higher performance whilst running and protecting your joints from aches, pains, and shock – a perfect footwear option suitable for those taking part in team sports, running, hiking, and high-impact training.

Loom Trainers

LOOM are the perfect casual trainers for those who are constantly on their feet. The multifunctional, practical and versatile properties these trainers have to offer are just 10/10, and are definitely a necessity in your shoe collection! Learn more about LOOM and order your very own waterproof trainers at loomfootwear.com. You can also check out their social media sites on Facebook and Instagram, to discover more!

Have you heard of Loom trainers? What are your footwear choices for everyday wear?
15:00 1 comments
AD - GIFTED| You may be wondering... is oat milk good for you? What benefits does this non-dairy alternative to cow's milk have? Well, let's take a look!

The plant-based milk industry is growing steadily at the majority of UK supermarkets, as more and more people start to change their diet and lifestyle habits or adopt a predominantly vegetarian or vegan/plant-based diet. There's such a huge variety of types of dairy-free milk alternatives on the market, including oat, almond, coconut and soy, to name a few. One of the more popular plant-based milk options is out of the above list is oat milk - possibly due to its sustainability and lower environmental impact.

I've recently begun switching to using oat milk as a replacement to cow's milk. I haven't completely converted to using plant-based milk, but 9 times out of 10, I'm using oat milk in my tea, coffee and cereal.


Consuming oat milk is a great option for those with special dietary requirements or allergies. This includes those following a Vegan or plant-based diet, those who are lactose intolerant, soy or nut-free, those suffering with gastroenterological conditions or those just looking to opt for dairy-free products in their diet. Oat milk is essentially created from a mixture of whole grain oats and water blended together, then strained to leave the pulp mixture behind.

Oat milk can be a good source of vitamins and minerals, including calcium. Many manufacturers of oat milk products often fortify it with "B" vitamins, such as vitamin B12. As well as "B" vitamins, oat milk bought from the supermarkets are usually  enriched with iron, thiamin, folate, magnesium, phosphorus, riboflavin, zinc, fibre and copper. Oat milk is a great source of iron for those following a plat-based, vegan or vegetarian diet, who may miss out on other sources of iron which are typically found in red meats and fish.

Oat milk is typically enriched and fortified with calcium and vitamin D — both of which can benefit your bone health. Calcium is a mineral found in a variety of foods and drinks, playing an essential role in maintaining strong and healthy bones and carrying out many important bodily functions.

Compared to other types of plant-based milks, oat milk typically has a slightly more protein and fibre included. The high levels of both protein and fibre found in oat milk helps to fill you up quicker and ensures you feeling fuller for longer. Incorporating this plant-based milk into your diet can help improve your appetite control and promote weight loss for those looking to lead a healthier lifestyle. As well as this, oat milk typically contains a soluble fibre -beta-glucan, which is necessary to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.
___________________________________________________________

Introducing Happi Free From

Happi Free From Oat Milk Drinks

I was recently gifted some products from the team at Happi Free From, to help me on my journey from transitioning from dairy milk to a plant-based version, this being oat milk. They offer a range of allergen-free oat milk chocolate that tastes great; is lower in sugar than other leading milk chocolate brands; and is sustainably sourced and packaged. The brand message Happi follow is so eco-friendly, sustainable and ethical, it's definitely helping to change the planet for the better.

The Happi oat drinks I received come in both a strawberry and chocolate flavour. These drinks are great sources of vitamins A, B6, B9, B12, C and D, which all contribute to the normal function of your body and immune system. Both flavours of the oat milk drink were so fresh and tasty, but the chocolate drink was undoubtedly my favourite. For me, this was the most versatile flavour as I was able to drink it by itself, use it in cereal or even to give my porridge that chocolate taste. Not only does it taste good, it also has so many nutritional health benefits and contains a long list of vitamins and minerals your body needs on a daily basis, what's not to love?

Happi Free From Oat Milk Chocolate

Also included in my parcel was Happi Family Bundle pack. This was a great surprise and something I couldn't wait to get stuck into! This bundle consisted of 4 bars of vegan friendly, sustainable and ethically sources chocolate bars in a variety of flavours - plain milk chocolate, cacao nibs crunch, orange and salted caramel. I was really excited about this chocolate as I haven't really tried many non-dairy varieties, but overall it did not disappoint! My favourite flavour was definitely the salted caramel!

Overall, I was extremely impressed with the Happi products I was kindly sent. It allowed me to try some new products that are suitable for my attempt at transitioning from dairy cows milk to a plant-based alternative, and left me finding some delicious non-dairy products. I also really like the branding and packaging that Happi use. So colourful, vibrant and eye-catching, it certainly draws you in and makes you want to find out more!

Have you heard of Happi oat milk products before? What plant-based milk alternatives do you enjoy?
10:00 No comments
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