We all need to pull together to protect our planet by ensuring that we live in a more sustainable and environmentally friendly way. At Crohn’s & Colitis UK, we want to play our part and make changes in the way we operate. This includes encouraging our members and supporters to make greener choices too.
Cutting back on paper
One of the steps we’ve taken recently is to cut back on our use of paper. Paper production means cutting down trees and this contributes to deforestation, which is one of the drivers of climate change. What’s more, paper manufacturing processes contribute to environmental pollution.
The main way our charity uses paper is to send thank you messages to our donors. However, when we asked you how you’d prefer to be thanked, 9 out of 10 donors said they’d be happier with an email. As well as reducing our carbon footprint, the money we’re saving on paper and postage can contribute more directly to supporting people living with Crohn’s or Colitis.
We’re also reviewing our paper resources and making sure they can be accessed on our website instead. Of course, not everyone uses the internet, so when we do need to post out printed material we’ll make sure all the materials we use are recyclable.
Making merchandise sustainable
We’re taking a close look at our merchandise, such as the T-shirts and wristbands we send out. We’re asking ourselves if they’re recyclable and if the materials used to make them come from sustainable sources. If they’re not, we’re starting to look for alternative options.
We’re also thinking about what our supporters may do with such items when they’ve served their original purpose – we definitely don’t want them to end up in landfill! Supporters don’t necessarily need a new Crohn’s & Colitis UK logo T-shirt for every event and we’d love it if you decided to reuse old ones instead. You can also recycle our pens when they’ve run out by taking them to recycling points around the country, along with your other used writing equipment.
Upcycling ideas
To mark this year’s Upcycling Day, which took place on 24th June, we decided to get creative with some upcycling how-to videos. If you have an old T-shirt sitting unworn in the cupboard, why not check out our step-by-step video on how to turn it into a tote bag? That way it will be helping to raise the profile of our charity every time you head to the shops. In another video, even old logo shoelaces get the upcycling treatment and are transformed into a handy keyring.
We were very pleased to have inspired so many of our followers to upcycle and think more about sustainability during that week. One even repurposed an old running top as a coat for their dog, Arthur. And he looks very smart in it too!
For more information, check out our blog on how we are looking to a more sustainable future, and keep an eye on our social media channels for other recycling, upcycling and sustainability ideas. Finally, if you have any bright ideas to share, please email us – we’re all ears!
