Tips & Tricks

Young people are the group who will be most impacted by climate change. We owe it to girls to help them find their voice and make a difference, both now and in the future. Girls are telling us that adults and youth organisations should do more to tackle climate change with 4 in 5 girls saying that youth organisations like Girlguiding should do more, and they strongly believe that girls should have a say in tackling climate change. An overwhelming 84% of our young members say it’s important to them to do something about climate change.  Regionally we’ve developed a sustainability commitment you can find it here.

We’ve also created some sustainability tips which we will regularly share with you, they are tailored for volunteers looking after Girlguiding properties, focusing on practical, actionable steps to create more eco-friendly spaces while also fostering environmental awareness among our younger members:

1. Promote Energy Efficiency

• If you can, you could upgrade to energy-efficient lighting such as LED bulbs, which consume less electricity and last longer.
• If you can, you could install motion sensors or timers in communal areas to reduce energy waste when rooms aren’t in use (please be aware that these sensors will not work in areas where members might sleep, as the lights will keep turning on when people move around at night).

2. Utilise Renewable Energy

Where possible you could:

• install solar panels or
• explore renewable energy providers or tariffs.

This could also be a great educational point for guests and members about renewable energy.

3. Implement a Recycling Program

• Make recycling bins easily accessible with clear signage, detailing what can and cannot be recycled.
• Consider adding compost bins if there’s space outdoors to compost food waste from events or gatherings.

4. Water Conservation

• Install low-flow faucets and toilets to reduce water usage.
• Place rainwater butts/barrels outdoors to collect water for use in gardens, reducing the need to use treated water.

5. Choose Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products

• Use biodegradable, non-toxic cleaning products to reduce chemical impact on local water systems.
• Educate cleaners and visitors about these choices, reinforcing the positive impact.

6. Upgrade Insulation and Windows

• Improve insulation in walls and roofs and replace single-pane windows with double-glazed ones to reduce heat loss and improve energy efficiency.

7. Incorporate Green Spaces

• Plant native trees, flowers, and shrubs around the property to encourage local wildlife.
• Create small gardens or vegetable patches that girls can help tend, teaching them about sustainable agriculture.

8. Minimise Plastic Use

• Replace disposable plastic items, such as cups and cutlery, with reusable or compostable options.
• Encourage visitors to bring their own reusable water bottles and food containers.

9. Encourage Sustainable Transportation

• Encourage parents and girls to walk too and from unit meetings, rather than use cars.
• Install bike racks and promote carpooling for unit meetings and events to reduce individual vehicle trips.
• Highlight nearby public transportation options or offer shuttle services if feasible for larger events.

10. Adopt Sustainable Purchasing Practices

• Choose eco-friendly suppliers for food, furniture, and event supplies, emphasising organic, local, or sustainably sourced items.
• When possible, buy in bulk to reduce packaging waste.

11. Educate and Involve Younger Members

• Use signage to explain sustainable initiatives around the property and why they matter.
• Include sustainability-focused activities and workshops in programming to empower the girls with eco-conscious practices.

12. Monitor and Track Sustainability Efforts

• Keep a record of energy and water usage and waste reduction efforts to evaluate the impact of sustainability initiatives.
• Share the results with members and encourage them to come up with new ideas to improve eco-friendly practices.

Incorporating these practices means that as property volunteers you can create more sustainable environments, setting an example for girls while also benefiting the planet!  We know that some of the changes may be costly to start off with, so here are some ideas about where to ask for support/funds or grants to help you make the changes to your properties to ensure that they are eco-friendly.