These days a lot of people are looking at ways to reduce their carbon footprint and get greener: recycling, walking instead of driving, and maintaining a low-waste attitude are all great ways being a more ecological person. Our societies are more informed and aware of the impact we have on the planet and our fellow beings. But by taking the notion of sustainability out of the blinkered, individualistic approach, we cannot fail to begin to integrate through an awareness that is of value to all.

It could be better – if New York is the supposed centre of the world, a watermark for the height of human civilisation, then the 25,000 tons of garbage that is collected daily from the city is truly a totem for what is happening everyday in our very own communities. This guide has been compiled to help influence the cultures of change that can be set-off by one person in order to steer their local community.

? Where’s your community. Think ‘immediately’ – start talking to your neighbours, find out what’s going on around you, and try to get involved wherever you can help. By keeping in touch and giving your help to those you can reach, you’ll soon grasp where your community is and start to understand its functions.
? Source locally. If you shop locally not only do you reduce food miles, it also supports local resources and outlets that rely on your interest to stay in circulation.
? How do you travel? Instead of driving your car to work, there is always an alternative that will reduce your carbon footprint, such as taking the bus or train. And the more public transport is used, the more scheduled services will be put on to meet demand – increasing use will provide public funds that can be invested into developing the public transport into more eco-efficient travel. Or if you do choose to drive, try a car-share to work. That way you can cut down on others making the same journey when there is space in your vehicle.
? Join the group. Unbeknown to most of us, there are environmental groups in most towns and cities that keep there fingers on the pulse of what’s available from your county council – this could be anything from grants and local initiatives to public funding schemes. And if there isn’t one, there is always time to spark the beginnings.
? Community composting. Composting can be quite difficult for some people who live in more urban sites. Community composting is a viable alternative that can help stimulate neighbourhoods for further green activities.
? Local Exchange Trading Schemes. The LET schemes are regional, non-profit exchange networks (like Freecycle) in which goods and services can be swapped without the need for printed currency. But unlike Freecycle, LET offers vouchers and a credit system that means direct swaps do not need to be made.
? Get to the press. Not necessarily the national papers. Think how many people get ‘the local paper’ and listen to your regional radio station. These are both great ways of transmitting community-based messages, and because it’s for a good cause, you may be able to do it for free.
? Spread the practice. Not just the message. If there is a way you can help – ‘do’ it. A lot of negative feelings towards going greener stem from too much talk about what there is to be done, with no desire to see them through. Take this brief guide as your first step to becoming an active member of your community, today.

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