Indigo refers both to the blue pigment used as a dye and to indigo plants of the genus Indigofera. Indigo dye has been used all over the world to dye fabric blue. One of the oldest dyes known to man. It is the only truly natural blue colour. block printed cotton dyed with Indigo, using carved wooden blocks dipped in indigo dye.

Finding ways to share your outdoor space with birds, bees and insects will support biodiversity and bring a fascinating new dimension that will have you hooked before you realise it!

1. CONSERVE WATER - Not using it? Turn it off

Water is a truly precious resource and we tend to take it for granted - not leaving the tap running can make a huge difference as can committing to drinking tap water vs. bottled water.

2. REDUCE YOUR WASTE - Make recycling a habit

Make a commitment to reducing waste - do you really need that takeaway box/bag/coffee cup? or can you choose a reusable one? Shop based on practicalities of recycling. Steer away from brands / products that do not use recyclable/reusable/sustainable materials.

3. SAVE AND MAXIMIZE ENERGY - Use energy-saving appliances

Electrical appliances are playing a growing part in all of our lives but could you limit your screen time or set a digital curfew in the evening? Not only would this save energy but could also help you wind down and improve your sleep!

4. WALK AND TRAVEL GREEN - Less pollution + health benefits

Try to use public transport whenever you can or incorporate it into your journey, if you have to take the car, try to plan journeys so that they are most efficient and switch off that engine if you're waiting.

5. STAND UP AND GET INVOLVED - You can make a difference!

What you do makes a difference and by seeing your example, others will be inspired to make small changes, which ultimately add up to a big difference, that will improve the future for all of us and for future generations...

At Reason Season Time, our mission is to reduce the impact of everyday life on the earth's finite resources. To find out more about our work, visit us at www.reasonseasontime.co.uk 

Around ten million items of furniture are thrown away every year in the UK and many of these are still in good or great condition, but unfortunately end up in the dump and eventually go to landfill. Sadly, this represents a huge amount of wood, metal, fabric and other usable material which could be recycled or re-purposed but never is.

Whether you rent or own your place, furniture can be one of the costliest items in your home and can often be considered an investment for the long term so give it some thought and perhaps consider some alternative ways to reduce your furniture footprint.

One option is to visit a local reuse shop or charity shop – there are now a number of charity shops specialising in furniture who can also collect and deliver larger items for you – this is a great way to get your hands on high quality and affordable furniture, which will also give your room a unique look and feel. Older or vintage pieces are also likely to be made of solid wood rather than chipboard or MDF and to be plastic-free.

Lots of people are now buying and selling furniture online through local  groups on Facebook, Gumtree and eBay. These allow you to find something locally, which you can go and see before buying or to sell or donate an item which no longer want or need. The Reuse Network helps you locate reuse furniture shops near you.

So next time you’re on the look out for a unique and beautiful piece of furniture, look beyond the high street and see if you can find an original coffee table or sideboard that’s been upcycled or recycled and take a step towards reducing your furniture footprint!

Useful links
Collection of large waste items
British Heart Foundation Free Furniture Collection
Reuse Network
St Luke's Hospice
Trinity 

 

 

 

Why should you consider choosing furniture from reclaimed wood in and around your home or for your next piece of furniture, construction or building project? In fact, what is reclaimed wood? There is still a considerable amount of confusion around what reclaimed wood is and where it comes from, so in this article, we explain some of the basics around this material and how it can add history and character to your home.