Waste & Recycling:
Did you know .....?

1. One third of all waste can be composted successfully. What's good for your garden is good for your environment!
2. The average child uses up to 5,000 nappies on his or her way to being potty trained. 4% of our waste consists of disposable nappies. Help the environment and save yourself some money - use eco-nappies for your baby.
3. In just five months, 20 tonnes of textiles have been recycled in the textile banks around the county. You can help by taking old saleable clothing to your local charity shop.
4. In Ireland one ton of waste is generated per household per year. Choose products made from recycled materials.

Energy:

Did you know......?

1. Every 6 pack of cans recycled saves enough electricity to run a TV for 18 hours. Save energy and recycle. It's easy to make a difference.
2. A well-insulated house will cost you up to €320 less to heat per year. By increasing the thickness of the insulation in your attic to 200mm, you can save on your heating bills and help the environment by conserving energy.
3. An ordinary 100 watt light bulb uses 5 times more electricity than an energy saving bulb. Install energy saving CFL lightbulbs as your old ones blow. It's easy to make a difference.
4. Installing a Hot Water Cylinder Lagging Jacket costs only about €10. But you could save you up to three times this amount in just one year!

Water:

As our country grows there is also a growing demand on our water supply. In order for us all to enjoy our precious reserves we need to be more aware of water conservation.

It's surprising to know that the average daily water consumption per person in Ireland is over 148 litres! We can reduce the amount we use quite simply, by following these straightforward tips. Water is precious. Let's conserve it.

1. Keep a jug of water in the fridge.
   Instead of letting the tap run for cold water, fill a jug of water and keep it in the fridge.
2. Use a basin to rinse/clean your fruit and vegetables.
   Instead of letting the tap run, use a basin to rinse/clean your fruit and vegetables. Why not use the leftover water to give your pot plants a drink?
3. Use a bucket of water not a hose.
   A running hose will use about 9 litres of water per minute. The car will be just as clean using a bucket of water. When cleaning your windows or washing your car, use a bucket and sponge instead of a hose. The same goes for your garden flowers, try using a watering can instead.
4. Lawns don't need to be hosed.
   Use good mulch on your flowerbeds to reduce watering.
5. Fix leaking taps as soon as you hear them.
   Remember to check that your home is leak free and fix those dripping taps. Phone and report water leakage from burst pipes to your local authority.
6. Use your Washing Machine and Dishwasher only when they are full.
   A typical Washing Machine on full cycle uses up to 45 litres of water. A dishwasher uses 20 litres. Try to use only your appliances when you have a full load. You'll save money and conserve water.
7. Don't leave the tap running while brushing your teeth.
   A running tap will dispense up to 6 litres of water a minute. Don't leave it running while shaving or washing your hands.
8. In the Shower.
   Reduce the time you spend in the shower. A power shower will use over 125 litres in less than five minutes (a bath takes 80 litres of water).
9. Know how to turn off your water supply.
   This could save thousands of litres of water and damage to your home in the event of a pipe burst.
10. Hot Drinks.
    Fill the kettle with enough for your needs, not to the brim. It saves energy too.

For more information on conserving water In the Home, In the Garden and In Work, please visit www.taptips.ie