Jack Petchey’s Green Writers: “Guide to environmental sustainability” ’

In our latest blog series, we have asked young people to write about the environment and their own innovative solutions to help build a greener tomorrow! Our next Green Writer is Tania Sahota, who speaks about her environmental projects and top tips to improve sustainability!

Hey everyone, my name is Tania Sahota. I am 17 years old from the Borough of Redbridge. I attend All Saints Catholic School and Technology College B&D. I first came across the Jack Petchey Foundation via social media and knew I wanted to get involved in spreading a positive message and what I’ve learned about sustainability to reach many more individuals.

In my school, students and staff work together to improve many facilities around the site to be more eco-friendly, such as: creating a green wall, recycling bins, planting more trees, using eco-friendly cutlery, etc. As part of getting involved in these projects, I was appointed as an “Eco ambassador” in my school. I volunteered for a project at school where we had to create more green space surrounding the school, which helped me to think more about how to best improve my school environment while also protecting the nature around our school.

I think it’s important to share small actions that can be part of creating a sustainable environment. As we know, even little changes can have a significant impact on your community.

So here are my top tips for how you can help build a green community where you live!

Pick up litter in nearby parks and try to spread the word about using dustbins there.
Participate in campaigns promoting environmental improvement and raising awareness, such as encouraging using less plastic and planting trees.
On your birthday, plant a tree. Not only will it benefit the environment, but it will also make you feel good about what you have given back to the community.
Reusing old bottles, containers, and other items is a form of recycling that helps reduce pollution from plastic – you could use them as pen pots, for watering plants, or even upcycle them into something new.
DIY house decorating with cardboard, plastic, or discarded items.
Use eco-friendly products – there is so much information online about what to look out for, such as is the product recyclable, or made of recycled materials. Check out this guide for what to look for!
Try to use public transportation more frequently than personal vehicles.
When not in use, turn off the lights and fans – this can save you £15 a year too!
Be water-wise – try to reduce how much water you use, and think of ways you can re-use water, such as for watering plants in the garden from rainwater!
Try renewable energy – there are many different options out there to diversify where you get your energy from, and more green options!
Cut down meat on the plate – meat-free Monday’s can be a great place to start to get into a new routine and try new recipes!

Many thanks for your time!

Thanks, Tania for your great tips – you’re right, little changes can have a significant impact on our community! To learn more about how our grants can help improve your youth group/school’s sustainability, download our Grantee’s Guide to Young People and the Environment!