As the energy price cap increases by 13% from July, Brits are being given ways to make their gardens more eco-friendly this summer with some small changes. The team at LightingLegends.com have shared five tips for creating more sustainable outdoor spaces.
Simple Switches for Energy Efficiency
Small changes, such as using solar lighting or timers to switch off outdoor lights and other electrics automatically, are an easy first step towards reducing energy use. This helps ensure gardens are more energy efficient by eliminating unnecessary electricity use, which lowers environmental impact and can also help reduce household costs.
Ensuring the garden is wildlife friendly by incorporating a range of plants is another great way to keep it thriving while supporting the wider ecosystem. Including plants that provide food for pollinators, as well as shelter and nesting spaces for wildlife, can help encourage biodiversity.
Conserve Rainwater for Dry Spells
It’s also a great time to think ahead and conserve rainwater before hotter weather arrives. Collecting and reusing rainwater is ideal for watering plants and supporting wildlife during dry spells, while also helping to reduce unnecessary water usage.
Jon Saeed, managing director of LightingLegends.com, said: “Incorporating small changes into the garden can be really beneficial for the environment while also helping your outdoor spaces thrive. The good thing is that making a positive impact doesn’t have to involve dramatic changes.
“Simple switches, such as using solar lights or changing to LED outdoor lighting, can help reduce unnecessary electricity use, improving energy efficiency and lowering environmental impact.
“Taking into consideration things like single-use plastic waste and water conservation can also make a big difference. Collecting rainwater, reusing materials where possible and creating wildlife friendly spaces are all simple ways to make gardens more sustainable over the summer months.”
Five Ways to Make the Garden More Eco-Friendly This Summer
Conserve Water
During rainy spells, collect rainwater in water butts to use during dry periods when water is scarce to reduce reliance on mains water. The water you’ve collected can be used to keep plants healthy, supporting a balanced garden ecosystem, and can also be placed in shallow dishes to help wildlife stay hydrated during hot weather.
Make Outdoor Lighting Changes
Switch your outdoor lighting to more energy efficient options such as solar lighting, which uses renewable energy and avoids drawing power from the grid. LED bulbs are also a great alternative, as they use significantly less electricity than traditional bulbs and last much longer. These changes will help lower your household emissions, and help cut down on waste from frequent bulb replacements.
Plant and Grow
Planting flowers, fruit, vegetables, shrubs and trees all helps create a thriving, biodiverse garden. This supports a more eco-friendly outdoor space by providing natural food sources and shelter for wildlife such as pollinators, birds and insects. A varied mix of planting also improves soil health and strengthens the overall garden ecosystem.
Use Smart Timers
Using timers to switch off outdoor electrical items such as lighting, pond filters, or automated irrigation systems helps ensure energy and water are only used when needed. This prevents unnecessary consumption.
Avoid Single-Use Plastic
When planting and growing, avoid using single-use plastic pots, trays and plant labels to reduce waste and prevent unnecessary plastic from entering the environment. Opt for reusable containers instead, or biodegradable alternatives. This will help to minimise plastic pollution and support more sustainable gardening.
