Tesco is scrapping plastic packaging from its own-brand pocket tissues, in a move that the UK’s largest supermarket says will eliminate almost 35 tonnes of new soft plastic waste each year.

Read more: Tesco switches pocket tissue packaging to paper to cut plastic waste

While tourism is a significant contributor to economies worldwide, it leaves an undeniable footprint on the environment. From carbon emissions associated with transportation to habitat disruption caused by infrastructure development, the impact is profound. Increased waste generation, energy consumption, and water usage further strain ecosystems.

One major concern is the degradation of natural landscapes and biodiversity hotspots to accommodate the influx of tourists. Overcrowded destinations experience soil erosion, pollution, and habitat destruction, threatening the delicate balance of ecosystems.

To counteract these negative effects, travelers must adopt responsible tourism practices. Start by choosing eco-friendly accommodations and transportation options. Support local businesses to ensure that your travel dollars contribute to the community rather than exploit it. Minimize waste by practicing the principles of "Leave No Trace" and dispose of litter responsibly.

One major concern is the degradation of natural landscapes and biodiversity hotspots to accommodate the influx of tourists. Overcrowded destinations experience soil erosion, pollution, and habitat destruction, threatening the delicate balance of ecosystems.

To counteract these negative effects, travelers must adopt responsible tourism practices. Start by choosing eco-friendly accommodations and transportation options. Support local businesses to ensure that your travel dollars contribute to the community rather than exploit it. Minimize waste by practicing the "Leave No Trace" principles and dispose of litter responsibly.

Moreover, consider bringing reusable cutlery and bottles on your travels to reduce single-use plastic waste, which is a pervasive issue in many tourist destinations. Small changes like this can collectively make a significant impact on environmental preservation.

Every month I put $35 into an "eco" savings account.

WHy? I value the environment, I also live by the phrase "show me your budget and I will show you your values." so I decided to try to put my money where my mouth is. Doing the eco friendly thing isn't always cheaper. So I plan for it, and have the money to do it. Just as people have a sinking fund for Christmas or vacations, I also have one for areas where I'd spend more money to do the more environmentally friendly thing.

I justify the cost by thinking of all the ways I usually save money by being more eco friendly. I have been that person that has said in the past "I wanted to do the more eco-friendly thing but it was too expensive."

Now I have the money to do it when it comes up. HOnestly the money I save by being eco friendly MORE than makes up for this cost and I feel good. I have been doing this for a few years now, and it is surprising how many times I have had to dip into the money for things that have made a pretty big impact.. But I still have some left in the account.

If the money continues to grow, I am going to try to switch to solar. Sadly I will be draining it to help subsidize the cost of a more environmentally friendly dishwasher that will last me 20 years instead of 10. The company also believes in the "right to repair" and keeps dishwasher parts for 20 years.

I don't feel guilty about spending more money on this stuff, that is what the money is for.

Just an idea, in case you ever had to do the more environmentally damaging thing due to money.

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Plastic footprint is the total amount of plastic waste you generate through your daily activities, including product purchases and packaging disposal. It represents the impact of your lifestyle on the environment in terms of plastic consumption and waste contribution. Here are some very simple tips on how to reduce your plastic footprint:

Reusable Bags and Containers:

• Opt for reusable bags and containers when shopping to cut down on single-use plastics. They're not only eco-friendly but also sturdier for carrying groceries.

Refill Stations:

• Check out local stores or online platforms that offer refill stations for cleaning products. It's a simple switch that not only reduces plastic waste but often saves you money too.

Water Bottles and Coffee Cups:

• Invest in reusable water bottles and coffee cups for your daily sips. It's an easy habit that makes a big difference in reducing the number of disposable plastic bottles.

Eco-Friendly Packaging:

• Keep an eye out for products with eco-friendly packaging. Many brands now offer plastic-free options or use materials that are kinder to the planet.

Composting Organic Waste:

• Start composting your kitchen scraps for a greener way to dispose of organic waste. It's not just good for the environment; it enriches your garden too.

Be Mindful of Takeout Containers:

• When grabbing takeout, ask for minimal plastic packaging or bring your own reusable containers. It's a small change that adds up when we all do it.

Plastic-Free Home Cleaning Products:

• Switching to plastic-free or minimal packaging for your cleaning products is a savvy move. Look for brands that offer environmentally friendly alternatives, like refillable containers or biodegradable packaging.

DIY Cleaning Solutions:

• Whip up your own cleaning solutions using pantry staples like vinegar and baking soda. It's not only cost-effective but also reduces your reliance on commercially packaged cleaning products.

https://forms.gle/ca13tcu2soctoqwi6

Hi all,

I was contemplating on how a sustainable diet would be beneficial for a lifestyle with a low impact. So, my web app Jeebz Food Emissions (food-emissions.com) generates a recommended meat diet which cuts the user's greenhouse gas emissions by at least 50%. I am wondering whether this idea of tracking your diet's carbon footprint would appeal to eco-conscious people It is only the first version and currently only works on PC.

Let me know your thoughts on the idea, and whether it seems interesting!

Lately, I've been exploring ways to reduce my carbon footprint on a daily basis and found something intriguing: our online activities generate a carbon footprint! 🌐💡

Consider this: every web browse, video stream, or online interaction contributes to carbon emissions, yet it's often overlooked. "Pebble" is a web extension that has opened my eyes to this issue. It monitors real-time carbon emissions from your online actions, shedding light on the environmental consequences of your internet use. For instance, it showed me that a 5-minute, high-quality YouTube video can emit CO2 emissions equivalent to a plastic bottle. It's quite eye-opening!

I'd love to hear your thoughts on this and how effective a tool like this is for reducing your personal carbon footprint.