Planet and Pocket

Introduction: The circular economy is one of the biggest sustainability trends of 2025—and it’s not just good for the planet, it’s great for your wallet. Unlike the old “take, make, dispose” model, the circular economy focuses on keeping products and materials in use for as long as possible. That means less waste, lower costs, and smarter choices. Here are 9 practical ways to embrace the circular economy and save money without sacrificing convenience. 1. Shop Second-Hand First Before buying new, check charity shops , thrift stores, and online platforms like Vinted, Depop, and Facebook Marketplace. You’ll find quality clothes, furniture, and even electronics at a fraction of the price. Pro tip: Look for “like new” or “open box” items for the best deals. 2. Visit Repair Cafés Repair cafés are community spaces where volunteers help fix broken items for free or a small donation. From toasters to bikes, these cafés keep products out of landfills and save you money....

Sustainable September is a month-long campaign across the UK that encourages people to take small, meaningful steps toward greener living. From cutting down on waste to supporting local businesses, the idea is simple: progress over perfection . At Planet and Pocket , we believe sustainability should be affordable, practical, and rewarding — not a luxury or a guilt trip. So here are 30 realistic ways to live more sustainably this month, without blowing your budget. 🛍️ 1–5: Smarter Shopping 1. Shop secondhand Join Oxfam’s Secondhand September and pledge to buy no new clothes for the month. Charity shops, vintage markets, and online platforms like Vinted offer quality finds at a fraction of the cost. 2. Support local growers and makers Buying from nearby producers cuts down on transport emissions and keeps money in your community. Look for farmers’ markets, refill shops, and independent cafés. 3. Avoid impulse buys Before buying anything, ask: Do I need this? Will I use it? Is ...

The idea behind the 15-minute city is straightforward: everything you need — shops, schools, parks, healthcare, and workspaces — should be reachable within a 15-minute walk, cycle, or short public transport journey from your home. It’s not about banning cars or restricting movement. It’s about making local life more convenient, affordable, and better connected. And in the UK, where fuel costs are high, public transport can be patchy, and high streets are under pressure, this model could make a real difference. 🚶 Less Driving, More Walking — and More Money in Your Pocket Cutting down on car use saves money. According to the RAC, the average cost of running a car in the UK is over £3,000 a year — once you factor in fuel, insurance, MOTs, servicing, and depreciation. If you can swap even a few weekly car journeys for walking, cycling, or using public transport, you’re not just saving on petrol — you’re reducing wear and tear, parking fees, and the hidden costs that add up over time. And ...

 Living sustainably isn’t just good for the planet — it’s good for your bank balance too. By making a few smart, eco‑friendly swaps, the average UK household can save hundreds of pounds a year without sacrificing comfort or convenience. Here are 10 proven changes you can make today, each aligned with UK‑recognised advice and real‑world savings. 1. Swap bottled water for a reusable bottle 💧 Saving: ~£150/year (based on one £1 bottle per weekday) Why it works: UK tap water meets strict safety standards, so refilling costs pennies compared to buying bottled water. Eco bonus: Cuts hundreds of single‑use plastic bottles annually, reducing waste and transport emissions. Where to refill: Many public parks, train stations, and city centres have free taps or fountains. Use the Refill UK official site to find refill points nationwide. Affiliate idea: Reusable stainless steel bottle – Natural Collection 2. Switch to LED bulbs 💡 Savi...