Recycle and reuse
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Recycle, upcycle - and make do and mend! Production of household waste needs to decrease by 33% by 2037 to reach emissions targets. So get out that needle and thread!
Rainwater is better for plants than chemically treated household water, plus you'll be helping to conserve our vital water.
You will need:
- Hacksaw
- Measuring tape
- Drill
- Pen or pencil
- Screwdriver
- Spirit level
Step 1
Find a solid, flat surface near a gutter downpipe. Use a spirit level to check. You will need a stand or some bricks to sit your water butt on so that it's elevated to allow watering can to fit underneath the tap.
Step 2
Option one - next to the downpipe:
Cut the downpipe and place the water butt directly beneath it. Follow the instructions on the diverter kit. Mark the height of the water butt on the downpipe. You will want to cut the pipe around 3cm from this point using a hacksaw. Attach the rainwater diverter fitting to the cut section of the downpipe.
Option two - in another location:
Cut a notch out of the downpipe and use a diverter to carry the water from the pipe to the water butt - allowing you to place the butt where you wish.
Step 3
Place the lid on top. This ensures no small animals can fall in and will keep insects out. Now wait for the rain to come!
Climate friendly gardening
There are plenty of ways you can take action against climate change in your own backyard or local greenspace.
Looking after the planet at home As a charity we rely on you
We look after over 90 nature reserves across the county.
More ways you can help wildlife
Change your energy use
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Energy used in buildings accounts for around 17% of total emissions. Reducing your household energy use by making efficiency savings, switching to a renewable energy supplier, or installing a heat pump will help cut down.
Change what you eat
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Buy local produce, eat more plant-based foods and reduce your food miles to shrink your environmental footprint.