SIMON TIERNEYlooks at green living on a budget
A LITTLE IMAGINATION goes a long way to rethinking how we deal with waste and how we can save money through green living. During my research, one source suggested showering "with your partner" to save on water. This is the best incentive I have ever heard for saving the planet. Upcycling your household items is a super way to save money and reduce your carbon footprint. Rather than throw it out, upcycle it by giving it a new function. For example, an old kitchen table can be beer stained, painted or weathered and becomes chic outdoor patio furniture. There are lots of ideas on upcyclethat.com.
Absolutely Organic ( absolutelyorganic.ie) deliver fresh, seasonal and organic fruit and vegetables and an array of other products directly to your door, countrywide (with no delivery charge in the greater Dublin area). To celebrate their 15th year, they are offering 15 complimentary High Five Organic Vegetable boxes (worth €16) to the first readers to email info@absolutelyorganic.ie.
How many times do we go for a country walk but we have no idea about the flora and fauna we stumble upon? Blackstairs Eco Trails (Old Rectory, Killedmond, Borris, Co Carlow, blackstairsecotrails.ie) lead enthusiasts on easygoing and informative walks, revealing the birds, flowers, animals and fungi of the area. Afternoon tea welcomes the hungry hiker at the end.
There are four complimentary passes available. The first two readers to email blackstairsecotrails@gmail.com will receive a voucher, worth €70, with which they can attend with a guest.
Rothar (171 Phibsborough Rd, Dublin 7 16 Fade St, Dublin 2, tel: 01-677 2233) is like a bicycle bazaar: it sells second-hand bikes, repairs bikes, encourages the bike as the eco-friendly mode of transport and even has a bicycle cafe. The “fix your own bike” service gives you workspace, tools and expert advice. There are 10 free passes (normally €5) available for this service to the first readers to email info@rothar.ie.
Last but not least ...
The Traditional Building and Conservation Skills in Action Exhibition is taking place today and tomorrow in Kilkenny Castle (The Parade, Kilkenny City, Co Kilkenny, tel: 056-770 4100). This is a free exhibition, with many talks and events focusing on the conservation of old buildings, furniture restoration and other traditional skills. Visit the Irish Georgian Society's website, igs.ie, for details.
