Are you thinking of giving something up for lent?
Posted by Martin in Festivals, Green tips, Reduce, re-use, recycle, Save energy | 8 February 2008
O.k, so lent started a few days ago, but it's not too late to start. So how about a "carbon fast" which I think is a pretty neat idea and is even being backed by two Church of England bishops inconjunction with Tearfund - the development agency!
The fast consists of a 40-day action plan, which will help the environment we live in.
Personally, I've never been one for doing something out of ritual or religous duty, and whilst giving up chocolate or alcohol might help my health, it does little for others. So this plan sounds great.
Day one (which we've missed) starts with removing a light bulb from a prominent place in the home and living without it for 40 days. This being a constant visual reminder during Lent of the need to cut energy.
On the last day, people are encouraged to replace the missing bulb with an energy-saving bulb.
To give you an idea of what the plan contains for the next week, here are the suggestions:
Day three - Friday
Tread lightly – whether that's by foot, by bike, on to a bus or on the gas as you drive. Find a way to reduce carbon dioxide emissions when you travel today.
Day four - Saturday
Are you recycling everything possible? Really – everything? Look into it today.
Day five - Sunday
Can you talk about your Carbon Fast at church today? Encourage others to join in.
Day six - Monday
Turn your central heating thermostat down by one degree.
Day seven - Tuesday
Say au revoir to standby. Check that all electrical equipment is switched off when not in use. The TV alone will save a hefty 20kg of carbon dioxide per year.
Day eight - Wednesday
Unplug your mobile phone charger: it uses electricity even when it's not charging.
Day nine - Thursday
Climate change isn't a distant threat – it's affecting poor communities now. Pray for Tearfund's work to help vulnerable communities adapt to the changing weather.
You can even come up with your own plan and ideas, so don’t worry about the Churchy ideas that have been suggested.
Here’s my tip - As I worked at home today, I decided not to keep the heating on, which I normally do, instead I put on an extra layer of clothing.
Go on, give it a go, the full plan can be downloaded from the Tearfund website.
If you've got some great ideas or tips, let me know!
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