– Caring for People and Planet

 Prepared by Barnet Multi Faith Forum, Environment and Sustainability Sub-Group

The holy month of Ramadan presents an opportunity to embrace more sustainable practices. By committing to net-zero goals, we can create a greener, healthier world and build a sustainable future for generations to come. Together, we can create real change through small, impactful steps.

Updated from 2024

 1- Reduce Plastic Use

• Bring your own bags when shopping to reduce plastic waste.
• Switch to plastic-free alternatives like soap bars and refillable containers.
• Choose minimally packaged foods.
• Use reusable cups, bottles, plates, and utensils for social gatherings.
• Encourage children to embrace sustainability with non-plastic, recyclable toys. Books from local charities or library exchange stations also make excellent eco-friendly gifts.

2- Get Active and Stay Healthy

• Walk or cycle whenever possible to reduce car use and pollution.
• Use public transport at least once a week to cut carbon emissions and improve air quality.
• Suggest the installation of cycle racks at places of worship and community centres to encourage eco-friendly transportation.

3 – Reduce Food Waste 

• Set your fridge temperature between 0-5°C to keep food fresh longer.
• Get creative with leftovers—freeze or share them with those in need.
• Donate unused food to collection points for food banks or use apps like OLIO or Too Good To Go.
• Plan shopping trips with a list and check use-by dates.
• Keep your fridge organized with clear storage containers to reduce forgotten food.
• Try going meat-free or vegan occasionally to lower your environmental impact.

4 – Compost & Recycle

• Compost organic waste to reduce landfill waste—try a wormery!
• Check local services for food waste collection and recycling programs.
• If you have dry biomass or green waste, consider making biochar or donating it to biochar facilities.
• Collect fallen leaves and use a green waste bin or make leaf mould for garden enrichment.
• Recycle candle wax for reuse and clean candle jars thoroughly before recycling.

5 – Dairy Alternatives to Reduce Carbon Footprint

• Adopt a plant-based diet and grow your own food as much as possible to reduce environmental impact.
• Participate in the “Eat More Beans” campaign and explore various bean recipes as a meat alternative.
• Try vegan or plant-based cheese alternatives, or make your own using ingredients like cashew nuts.
• Try oat, coconut, or hazelnut milk in tea, coffee, and cereal.
• Choose natural sweeteners like honey, dates, or raisins instead of processed sugar.
• Swap ice cream for fresh fruit, and butter for veggie spreads or olive oil.
• Experiment with herbs, spices, and rose water for flavorful, sustainable seasoning.

6 – Conserve Water

• Use tap water or, if necessary, opt for a water filter (if tap water quality is poor) instead of purchasing plastic bottled water.
• Take shorter showers and be mindful of water usage when washing or cleaning.
• Report leaks or blockages in public spaces to local authorities.
• Implement rainwater harvesting systems for garden use.

7 – Save Energy & Protect the Environment

• Use natural light and ventilation whenever possible.
• Turn off and unplug electronics when not in use.
• Participate in local clean-up events or pick up litter during walks.
• Report faulty street lights and lamp posts for repair.
• Improve home sustainability by enhancing insulation, installing solar panels, and switching to LED light bulbs for energy savings.

8 – Welcome Wildlife

• Support local conservation efforts.
• Set up bird feeders and leave nuts for squirrels.
• Feed ducks with peas and sweetcorn instead of bread.
• Plant trees, shrubs, and create wildlife habitats using native plant species to support and enhance local ecosystems.
• Join or start a local “friends of the park” group to engage in conservation efforts.
• Add a pond or water bowl to attract birds, insects, and amphibians.

9 – Eco-Friendly Home & Gifts

• Choose sustainable materials for decorations.
• Make handmade gifts and use minimal wrapping.
• Buy from eco-conscious suppliers.
• Use wood in construction to sequester carbon within buildings while integrating green roofs or vertical gardens in urban areas to promote sustainability and enhance biodiversity.
• Give unused gifts to charity, helping to reduce waste and support those in need.

 10 – Sustainability Personal Choices

• Limit air travel and opt for low-carbon alternatives.
• Invest responsibly by considering greener and more ethical options for stocks, shares, and insurance.
• Participate in the Big Bank Switch campaign, moving to banks committed to positive social and environmental impact.
• Extend your smartphone’s lifespan instead of upgrading for trends.
• Set personal reduction goals and calculate your carbon footprint using free apps.
• Use the EarthHero climate app to learn about achieving net-zero personally and embracing low-carbon living.
• Offset your carbon emissions by voluntarily purchasing verified greenhouse gas removal credits.
• When calculating emissions, consider Scope 3 emissions, which include indirect emissions from supply chains, travel, and product use.

11 – Support Local Produce

• Follow the LOAF principle when shopping:
  • Locally produced: Reduce carbon miles from transportation.
  • Organically grown: Minimize toxicity and protect pollinators.
  • Animal friendly: Support ethical treatment of animals.
  • Fairly Traded: Promote fair pay, humane working conditions, and the prevention of child labour, exploitation, and human trafficking.
• Support small businesses and local artisans.
• Grow your own food in community gardens and share knowledge with others.

12 – Engage with Your Community

• Promote a culture of sustainability by example, sharing your efforts, and inspiring others.
• Organise sustainability-focused events, including clothing and appliance swap events, upcycling workshops, and local repair cafes or tool libraries.
• Encourage and support sustainability policies at local, industrial, national, and global levels.
• Raise awareness about emission reduction, carbon removal, and sustainable practices.
• Track and share waste bin usage at community gatherings to encourage waste reduction.
• Join local walking groups to promote health and reduce carbon emissions.
• Rewild community gardens or centre yards with plants that attract pollinators.

These are just suggestions—view sustainability as an opportunity, not a sacrifice, and
implement as many tips as possible. Every action matters for a meaningful impact.
Please share and spread the tips. Thank you.