Food & Drink
Get a healthy gut
River Cottage’s Rachel de Thample shares natural ways to improve gut health and boost your wellbeing.
10 March 2025
This article first appeared in our Earth Day 2025 issue of My Green Pod Magazine, published 22 April. Click here to subscribe to our digital edition and get each issue delivered straight to your inbox
Let’s face it: climate change and environmental issues can feel overwhelming.
The good news is that you don’t have to overhaul your entire life to make a difference; you can make the world a better place with a commitment to start small.
In honour of Earth Day, here are 10 easy ways to reduce your environmental footprint, starting today.
By adopting even one of these tips, you’re taking a meaningful step towards a more sustainable future.
Once you’ve mastered one, why not try another?
Together, we can make a significant difference. Start today – whether it’s by composting, planting a tree or visiting River Cottage for inspiration.
Every little change adds up, and the ripple effect could transform our world.
One-third of all food produced globally is wasted. Meal planning can be a game-changer; make a list, stick to it and get creative with leftovers.
Try turning vegetable scraps into stock or fermenting them into kimchi.
Composting is another excellent option – it reduces waste heading to landfill and provides nutrient-rich soil for your garden.
Single-use plastics don’t have to be part of your routine. Carry a water bottle, use a shampoo bar instead of bottled shampoo, keep a tote bag in your car and buy loose vegetables instead of pre-packaged ones.
These simple swaps reduce waste and can save you money in the long run.
Cutting down your energy use is simpler than you think. Start with LED bulbs – they consume less power and last longer.
Unplug electronics when they’re not in use (yes, even your phone charger).
If you can, invest in energy-efficient appliances and a smart thermostat to reduce unnecessary heating or cooling.
Fast fashion contributes to 92 million tonnes of waste each year, and synthetic fabrics create microplastic pollution.
The solution? Quality over quantity. Thrift shopping is an eco-friendly and budget-friendly way to refresh your wardrobe.
You can also sell your old clothes on platforms like Vinted or shop from B Corp-certified brands such as FatFace.
Mindful choices will help to reduce the environmental toll of fast fashion.
Buying local produce minimises the carbon footprint associated with transportation and supports small-scale farmers.
Visit a farmers’ market or join a community-supported agriculture (CSA) programme for fresh, seasonal ingredients.
If you want to take it a step further, visit River Cottage, where local, ethical and seasonal produce is at the heart of everything we do. It’s a chance to experience sustainable food and learn how small changes in your diet can make a big impact.
Eco-friendly alternatives – for everything from cleaning supplies to cosmetics – are widely available.
Look for biodegradable packaging or refillable options, and choose items made with natural ingredients.
Supporting brands that prioritise sustainability is an easy way to align your shopping habits with your values; you can even use the Impact Score app to check a product’s credentials.
Think about your daily commute: can you carpool, cycle or take public transport?
If you’re planning a trip, consider offsetting your carbon footprint through reforestation projects – or choose an airline that invests in sustainable practices.
Planting is a simple yet impactful way to help the Earth. Trees absorb CO² and provide oxygen, while even small-scale planting – like growing herbs on your windowsill – reduces the need for store-bought options wrapped in single-use plastic packaging.
Gardening also provides therapeutic benefits. River Cottage offers a ‘Get Growing’ course that would help you get started on your gardening journey in 2025.
Want to amplify your impact? Look out for opportunities to join a local beach cleanup, recycling drive or environmental advocacy group.
Many hands make light work, and it’s a great way to meet like-minded people. Bring the children, dogs or just yourselves for a walk that will do something rewarding.
The ripple effect of sharing your journey is powerful. Talk to your friends and family about the changes you’re making. Post tips on social media or, better yet, invite others to join you in adopting more sustainable habits.
A conversation today could inspire someone to take their first steps tomorrow.
River Cottage’s Rachel de Thample shares natural ways to improve gut health and boost your wellbeing.
River Cottage chef Gelf Alderson shares a seasonal recipe to celebrate seasonal, local, organic and wild food.
River Cottage’s Julia Johnson explains why organic food and farming should be at the heart of any sustainable food system.
Why to say ‘I do’ to a sustainable wedding at River Cottage HQ in Devon.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Weekly ethical news, offers, comps and a free digital mag (quarterly) – what’s not to love?
