Welcoming autumn into our homes and gardens

As the vibrant colours of autumn unfold - and the inclement weather returns - many of us are reflecting on how to make our homes cosier and our gardens more inviting.

This season is the perfect time to implement eco-friendly habits that benefit both the environment and our households.

From energy savings to wildlife conservation, this blog provides practical tips to help you make this autumn your greenest yet.

Preparing your home for cooler days

As temperatures begin to drop, the temptation to turn up the heating can be strong. However, energy use surges during the colder months, and reducing your reliance on fossil fuels is key to lowering your carbon footprint.

Seal draughts and insulate

Ensure your home is properly insulated to retain warmth. The Energy Saving Trust estimates that proper insulation can save households up to £355 a year. Start by checking windows and doors for draughts and use draught excluders or weather strips to seal gaps. You can also use thick curtains to keep heat from escaping through windows, especially at night.

Bleed your radiators

Over time, air bubbles can accumulate in radiators, making them less efficient. Bleeding your radiators ensures that they work effectively, keeping your home warm without wasting energy.

Adjust thermostat settings

Turning your thermostat down by just 1°C can save you up to £75 per year. Use a programmable thermostat to adjust the temperature when you’re away from home or sleeping. Aim to keep rooms at a comfortable but efficient temperature of around 18-21°C.

Switch to energy-efficient lighting

Autumn brings shorter days, meaning more of a reliance on artificial lighting. Switch to LED bulbs, which use up to 90% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and can last up to 25 years. You’ll save on your electricity bill and reduce your environmental impact.

Eco-friendly heating solutions

Embrace renewable energy

If you’re considering a long-term investment, explore renewable heating options such as air-source or ground-source heat pumps. These systems provide efficient heating by drawing warmth from the air or ground. Government incentives such as the Boiler Upgrade Scheme can help offset the expense.

Use biomass or eco-friendly wood burners

For a cosier touch, consider switching to an eco-friendly wood burner or biomass stove. Unlike traditional log burners, these systems emit fewer harmful particulates. If you’re burning wood, always use sustainably sourced logs and ensure the wood is well-seasoned, as this burns more efficiently and produces less smoke.

Water conservation at home

Autumn may seem like a time of almost non-stop rain, but conserving water is still crucial for sustainability.

Install water butts

One of the easiest ways to conserve water is by installing water butts to collect rainwater. Use this free resource to water your garden or even wash your car. A typical water butt can collect around 200 litres of water during a single rainy autumn week!

Efficient water use indoors

Small changes can have a significant impact. Install low-flow showerheads, repair leaky taps, and only run your washing machine or dishwasher when full. These habits will save water and lower your energy bills.

Sustainable autumn gardening

Autumn is a crucial time for garden preparation. As the growing season winds down, you can take steps to make your garden more eco- and wildlife-friendly.

Composting: turning waste into a resource

Autumn leaves, grass cuttings and vegetable peelings make perfect compost materials. Composting not only reduces the waste sent to landfill but also creates rich soil for your garden. Why not set up a compost bin in a shaded spot and use it to recycle your garden waste.

Avoid synthetic fertilisers

Autumn is the time to feed your garden, but opt for organic fertilisers or homemade compost instead of synthetic ones. Synthetic fertilisers contribute to pollution and are often made from non-renewable resources.

Plant for wildlife and pollinators

Many plants begin to die back in autumn, but you can extend their life by planting autumn-flowering species that support pollinators; late bloomers like asters and sedums provide nectar for bees and butterflies. Additionally, leave seed heads and berries for birds to feed on during the winter.

Mulching for soil health

Spread a layer of organic mulch (such as wood chips or leaf mould) over your garden beds in autumn. This helps to suppress weeds, retain soil moisture, and regulate soil temperature, providing a protective blanket through the winter months.

Sustainable lawn care

Lawns can be ecological deserts, but you can transform them into thriving mini ecosystems with minimal effort.

Cut less, grow more

Consider letting a portion of your lawn grow wild. By mowing less frequently, you’ll encourage wildflowers to bloom and provide a haven for insects like bees and butterflies. For a more structured approach, you could sow native wildflower seeds, creating a colourful and biodiverse meadow.

Use manual tools

Why not choose manual push mowers or electric options over petrol-powered ones... these are not only better for the environment, but also reduce noise pollution.

Supporting wildlife during autumn

Wildlife needs our help as food becomes scarcer in autumn and winter. Small steps in your garden can provide significant benefits for birds, mammals, and insects.

Build a bug hotel

Create habitats for insects by building a bug hotel using logs, twigs, leaves and stones. Insects such as ladybirds, bees and butterflies will seek refuge in these shelters over the winter, helping to maintain biodiversity in your garden.

Feed the birds

As natural food sources dwindle, set up bird feeders stocked with seeds, suet and mealworms. Ensure that the feeders are kept clean to avoid spreading diseases, and place them near shrubs or trees to offer birds shelter from predators.

Hedgehogs need homes, too

Hedgehogs are in decline across the UK, but autumn is the ideal time to help them prepare for hibernation. Build a hedgehog house or simply create a safe space in your garden by leaving piles of logs and leaves. Avoid using slug pellets or pesticides, as these can be harmful to hedgehogs.

Sustainable shopping and food choices 

Autumn is a time of harvest, with many delicious, seasonal fruits and vegetables available. Choosing sustainable, local produce supports the environment - and your health.

Shop seasonally

When shopping, opt for seasonal produce such as apples, pears, pumpkins, squash, leeks and root vegetables. Not only do these foods have a lower environmental impact, due to reduced transportation, but they’re also fresher and more nutritious.

Support local farmers

Where possible, buy from local farmers' markets or organic veg box schemes. This reduces food miles and supports UK farmers who use environmentally friendly practices. By cutting out the supermarket 'middleman', you can also reduce unnecessary packaging.

Reduce food waste

Autumn is ideal for batch cooking hearty soups, stews and casseroles. Use up leftover vegetables and store meals in reusable containers to avoid food waste. Compost any food scraps, and get creative with recipes, to ensure you’re making the most of seasonal produce.

Mindful Consumption

The colder months often bring the temptation to buy new clothes... or gadgets. However, a minimalist mindset can significantly reduce your environmental impact.

Buy less, choose wisely

When it comes to autumn fashion, opt for quality over quantity. Choose sustainable, eco-friendly brands, or buy second-hand clothing to reduce the demand for fast fashion. Additionally, invest in versatile pieces that will last for years and reduce the need for regular shopping sprees.

Host a clothing swap

If you’re in need of a wardrobe refresh, consider hosting a clothing swap with friends. This not only saves money but also prevents old clothes from ending up in landfill.

Every step towards a more sustainable lifestyle contributes to a greener future, not just for this season but for the years ahead. Let’s make this autumn a season of eco-conscious choices that benefit both ourselves and the planet.

Carl Dodd, Property Revolutions Ltd.