There are many changes that we need to make right now if we want to ensure that the planet remains green and gorgeous for our children and grandchildren.

What does biodegradable mean?

When it comes to the meaning of biodegradable, we need to look at the wider picture of sustainability. Biodegradability refers to whether or not a product can be broken down, and reabsorbed, without causing any harm to the surrounding environment. Microbes, fungi and bacteria are responsible for naturally breaking down items.

However, this is rather simplistic. Different things take different lengths of time to break down. And some release harmful gases or chemicals in the process. It also needs clarification because most things will break down eventually, but it may take hundreds of years to do so.

Therefore, the term ‘biodegradable’ can be a little confusing and misleading when you’re trying to make sustainable choices. Especially when it comes to packaging and single-use items. This has been exacerbated because the term has been used widely from a marketing perspective. 

In order to stick to being truly biodegradable, you want to choose natural products and avoid plastic as much as possible. Having said that, if the only alternatives available are made with biodegradable plastic versus traditional plastic, then the greener choice is to go with the biodegradable version and dispose of it properly.

What does eco mean?

‘Eco’ is a very generic term. In its loosest sense, it’s a prefix, and simply means anything ‘connected with the environment.’ 

However, nowadays it is more weighted in common usage. If a term has eco as a prefix, then it is generally considered to be something that is good in environmental terms.

An excellent example of this is with the term ‘eco-friendly’.

What does eco-friendly mean?

Eco-friendly is an example of the prefix ‘eco’ in action. If something is eco-friendly then it is considered to be something that is good, or kind, to the environment. 

It’s seen to not be harmful. Therefore you can have eco-friendly products such as an eco-friendly shower puff, but you can also have eco-friendly processes, decisions or actions, such as how to make an eco-friendly home.

It’s possible to see that eco-friendly is also closely tied up with our understanding of sustainability. 

In many ways, the two go hand in hand.

What does zero waste mean?

Zero waste is a concept, or principle. 

It is the aim to change how we consume things so that waste is prevented and ultimately eliminated. 

This would mean that no waste ends up in landfills and incinerators, as well as in the natural environment, such as our oceans.

Going Zero Waste explains it as “We aim to send nothing to landfill. 

We reduce what we need, reuse as much as we can, send little to be recycled, and compost what we cannot.” 

They go on to explain that “the circular economy mimics nature in that there is no trash in nature.”

Zero waste as a concept has most significance for individuals when they consider the packaging that the items they consume come in. 

By choosing products such as the zero waste starter kit, consumers can actively choose to create less waste through their purchasing decisions.

Creating an eco-workspace: get the basics right

Natural light is really important to our wellbeing, particularly at work. So if possible, position your desk and chair in a spot flooded with natural light. You’ll feel more invigorated and energised for work.

Lastly, bring the outdoors in. 

Plants are proven to help reduce workplace stress, so why not surround your workspace with some greenery? 

If you’re tight for space, then make use of these beautiful crochet plant hangers. 

Made with 100% recycled cotton, and available in a range of colours, they definitely fit the green bill!