Hello, Lil lovelies! As the sun starts to shine brighter (between the showers!) and the days grow longer, it's clear that summer is just around the corner. May is such a great time of year, so much potential for the coming season of warmth, outdoor adventures, cook outs and hanging with friends and family.

Whether you're planning beach trips, picnics, or just enjoying the great outdoors, here are some fabulous tips to help you enjoy a sustainable summer, packed with fun and free of waste!

Planning your Summer Wardrobe ?

Did you know that in the UK, an estimated 300,000 tonnes of clothing end up in household bins every year, with around 20% of this going to landfill? This summer let's change the narrative by opting for a sustainable wardrobe.

• Wear what you’ve got: shop your own wardrobe first. Many of us have clothes we put away last Summer and have forgotten what’s in that box in the bottom of the wardrobe, so have a rummage and see what you find. Sort into Keep & Donate and bring your spares for the Lil Summer Swish

• Swap, Don't Shop:   Organize a clothing swap party with friends or family. It’s a fun way to refresh your wardrobe without buying new – you can diy, Lil has rails/hangers & a step by step guide you can hire or you can book Lil to come and do it for you 😊

• Thrift and Upcycle:   Visit local thrift stores or explore online second-hand shops & marketplaces. You can find unique pieces and give them a new life. Come along to the Lil Summer Swish on 21st & 22nd June at Haddington Library

• Care for Your Clothes:   Wash at lower temperatures and air dry your clothes to extend their life and save energy. Now is the time for putting that clothes line/airer out.

Zero Waste Picnics and Barbecues 

Summer is synonymous with picnics and barbecues, but did you know that a significant amount of food waste occurs during these activities? Around 70% of food waste post farm gate is generated in homes. Here’s a few ways to minimise waste (& the ££ spent on food):

• Plan Your Meals:   Avoid overbuying by planning your picnic or BBQ and knowing exactly what you need. It helps you resist the ‘extras’ that end up in the trolley too! The excess often ends up in the bin, a waste of your hard-earned cash and a massive CO2e creator.

• Compost Scraps:   Set up a compost bin for fruit peels, veggie scraps, and other compostable waste or contribute to a neighbour’s bin. If it’s a big summer bash - set up bins so guests know where to put recyclables and food waste (it save on your tidying up task at the end too!)

• Reusables:   Ditch single use plastics for reusable plates, cups, and cutlery. Bring along cloth napkins instead of paper ones.

Eco Friendly Beach Days 

Beach days are a must, but they often leave behind litter or beach toys, much of which is plastic. Let’s keep it days clean and green:

•  Pack It In, Pack It Out:   Bring all your trash home. Beach bins are often full or non existent and you can guarantee your recycling is sorted and food waste dealt with appropriately if you DIY. Remember to pack a bin bag

• Pick up beach gear second hand: Lil has a swapping Facebook group for just this. Find beach toys, wetsuits, shelters etc or pop along to the Summer Swish

• Use a Reusable Water Bottle:   Avoid plastic water bottles. Bring your own reusable one to stay hydrated. You can bottle up other drinks too which avoids the risk of broken glass on the beach and waste if you won’t finish it.

• Biodegradable Sunscreen:   Choose sunscreens that are people, ocean and reef safe to protect marine life. None of the nasties on skin of in seas.

• Whether it’s a day trip, a staycation or a trip further afield, choose second life luggage and accessories from beach bags to suitcases, the kids Trunki’s or a backpack – it’s all available preloved.

Water Conservation 

Water usage spikes during summer. Did you know the fashion industry is the second biggest consumer of water globally? By choosing sustainable fashion, you're also helping conserve water. Here’s what else you could do:

• Fix Leaks:   Ensure no taps are leaking in your home. A small drip can waste a lot of water over time.

• Set up a rain collection system: This needn’t be complicated, a few empty buckets/tubs outside and a larger container to empty them into works but you can also set up water butts fed by downpipes. Use the collected water for your houseplants/garden/drinking water for the dog (they seem to prefer rain water).  Reduce evaporation by watering your garden during cooler evening hours.

• Shorten your shower: No need to explain this one but it saves water & energy.

Embracing a zero waste lifestyle doesn't mean sacrificing fun. It's about making mindful choices that align with our love for the planet. This summer, let's commit to these practices, ensuring we enjoy the season responsibly. Share your zero waste summer experiences and tips with the community by tagging #dolilthings on social media or comment beliow. Let's inspire each other and make a difference, one sunny day at a time!

Happy zero waste summer, everyone! 🌞🌊🍉