HSBC Commit to change
The world's local bank
Water
- Kettle - Commit to only fill the kettle with as much water as necessary for your immediate use. This will save water as well as the extra energy needed to heat up excess amounts of water.
- Washing Machine - Promise to run only full loads of laundry. Each load takes up to 150 litres (40 US gallons) of water, but running a half load will use more than half this amount of water. In addition, when replacing your machine, look for one with a high energy efficiency rating.
- Toilet - Up to one third of a household's wasted water is wasted by the toilet, but there are lots of steps to take to reduce this. Pledge to install a water 'hippo' or other water saving device so that each flush uses less water, or simply flush less often.
- Shower - Pledge to take showers instead of baths (but not power showers).
- Sink - A running tap can waste up to 6 litres (1.5 US gallons) of water per minute, so pledge to turn off the tap when brushing your teeth or shaving. You can also save water by washing vegetables and rinsing dishes in a basin instead of under running water (and then use the 'grey' water to water plants).
Waste
- Recycling Bin - Pledge to use a recycling bin for all recyclable materials. This will cut down on your personal waste production as well as saving waste and energy use in making new products.
- Rubbish Bin - Think before you throw anything away. Often charity shops or local schools can make use of old or unwanted items. Remember to recycle as much as possible.
- Reusable Bag - Commit to taking a reusable bag with you when you go shopping. This will reduce the amount of plastic bags thrown away and they are usually stronger and easier to carry.
- Junk Mail - Undertake to remove yourself from junk mail lists. You'll reduce your waste production and save time in opening unnecessary mail.
- Compost - Pledge to install a compost bin in the garden. About two thirds of household waste can be composted and compost makes a great organic fertilizer.
Energy
- Light Bulb - Undertake to install energy-saving light bulbs in your home. These can save up to US$130 each over their lifetime compared to a standard bulb.
- Solar Panels - Commit to add solar panels to your house or garden. This will reduce your energy bills and quickly repay the initial costs of installation.
- TV - Promise not to leave your TV or VCR on standby; a VCR on standby still uses 85% of the energy required to run at full power.
- Computer - Pledge to turn your computer off when not in use and remember that screen savers with movement can actually use more energy than when using your computer.
- Radiator - Commit to putting on a sweater rather than turning up the thermostat; increasing your thermostat by just 1 °C (2 °F) can add up to 10% to your heating bill.
- Green Electricity - Ask your local provider for green energy options and pledge to use them where available.
Carbon Dioxide
- Fuel Efficiency - Make a note to get your vehicle tuned regularly; this will increase your fuel efficiency and reduce your CO2 production. In addition, remember to look for environmentally-friendly fuel when filling up your car.
- Car Share - Pledge to share car journeys wherever possible. Not only will you produce less CO2, it's a great way to socialise.
- Bicycle - Promise to use your own steam for transport wherever possible; bike or walk to work, the shops, or school.
- Travel - Travel, particularly by airplane, is one of the greatest causes of CO2 production. Pledge only to undertake necessary journeys and to use the most environmentally-friendly travel modes.
- Public Transport - Commit to taking public transport whenever possible. Reduce your CO2 emissions and your stress level at the same time.
