The PRL Blog

Octopus Energy customers to receive £676 in savings

New Ofgem regulations lead the way Consumers are celebrating as Octopus Energy announces a new plan that could see customers save up to £676 over two years. This significant step forward is tied to new regulations by Ofgem, the UK's energy regulator, which will mandate energy suppliers to provide "zero standing charge" tariffs, alongside their existing offerings. Starting in January, this shift promises substantial relief, particularly for households that use less energy. Here's what this ground-breaking initiative means for energy consumers - and just why it matters. The lowdown on standing charges Standing charges are fixed daily costs added to…
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AI and its growing role in conservation

Futuring the forests The rainforests of South America, despite their immense ecological importance, are increasingly under threat from illegal logging and other destructive activities. Monitoring these vast and remote areas poses a significant challenge. While satellite surveillance offers some capability, it has notable limitations, and on-the-ground patrols are inherently constrained by the sheer size and inaccessibility of the terrain. Enter the drones: equipped with advanced cameras and motion sensors, they provide a game-changing solution. These aerial devices silently navigate through the forest canopy, detecting even the faintest signs of illegal activities. By integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI), data collected by drones…
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Cracking the energy efficiency code

Why is retrofitting UK homes thought to be such a challenge? Have you read this BBC article: "An energy efficient home - why is it so difficult?" (Published: 12 November 2024). The article deals with some homeowners who are finding it quite a task to get retrofit help and advice. Around 29 million British homes require retrofitting by 2050, according to the UK Green Building Council, an industry body. Did you know that, under PAS 2035:2019 guidance, all domestic retrofit projects should use a Retrofit Coordinator? The drive to make UK homes more energy efficient is an essential part of combating…
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Keeping your home cosy and energy efficient as the nights draw in

How to prepare for an energy-efficient autumn/winter season As the cooler months set in across the UK, there's no better time to ensure your home is ready to combat the autumn and winter chill. Retrofitting an older home with energy-efficient upgrades not only helps to keep it warm, but also reduces heating costs and carbon emissions. The benefits of an energy-efficient home A well-prepared home is vital for enduring the colder months, and retrofitting can yield multiple advantages: Lower Energy Bills: efficient insulation and heating systems reduce reliance on constant heating, keeping bills manageable. Increased Comfort: insulation and draught-proofing retain…
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Wildlife Trust project reveals ancient woodlands

Ancient woodlands are rediscovered A two-year project across three counties (Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire and Northamptonshire) has uncovered more than 1,300 hectares (3,271 acres) of previously unknown ancient woodland. The total area of ancient woodland in the area is now known to be 12,552 hectares (31,016 acres). The woods that have existed since 1600, are packed with a range of forest-loving plant life, fungi, insects and micro-organisations, that make up some 2.5% of UK land (609,990 hectares or 1,507,318 acres). Towards the 'ancient woodland' designation To be designated as ancient woodland, an area would have to have been wooded continuously since at…
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Eco-friendly ways to make the most of autumn

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…
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August was the UK’s greenest ever month

August 2024: a record-breaking month The UK's electricity grid had its greenest ever month in August, when the amount of power generated by fossil fuels fell to a record low. Data shows that both wind and solar produced more electricity than gas throughout the month. The amount of power generated by fossil fuels dropped to 3.6 terawatt-hours (TWh). By comparison, even in lockdown, it never fell below 4TWh. The figures come as the UK's last coal-fired power plant at Ratcliffe-on-Soar prepares to close on September 30th, marking the end of coal-fired power in the UK. At its peak, coal provided more than…
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A greener journey from Cambridge to London

The UK's first electric coach service In a significant leap towards sustainable travel, FlixBus has launched the UK's first electric coach service, connecting Cambridge and London. This initiative, running a 124-mile round trip, is part of a six-week trial that could reshape the future of long-distance travel in the UK. With the world increasingly aware of the environmental impact of transportation, this electric service is not just about convenience; it's a step towards reducing carbon emissions and improving public health. Mitigating health risks Carbon emissions from traditional diesel-powered coaches contribute significantly to air pollution, releasing harmful pollutants such as nitrogen…
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Doggy ‘backpacks’ filled with seeds help rewild a nature reserve

'Man's best friend' helps out in a novel rewilding project Equipped with backpacks full of wildflower seeds, dogs in a scheme in England are mimicking an ecological role left vacant by wolves. They are being enlisted to "act like wolves" to help rewild an urban nature reserve in the East Sussex town of Lewes. Before wolves were persecuted to extinction in the UK circa 1760, they were known to roam large areas, typically covering 12 miles (20km) or more each night. In doing so, wolves would inadvertently pick up wildflower and grass seeds in their fur, dispersing them many miles away and…
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How to keep your home and garden cool during a heatwave

The retrofit approach As climate change drives increasingly frequent and intense heatwaves across the UK, keeping our homes cool has become a growing concern. However, the traditional approach of using air conditioning and relying on artificial cooling methods is not only energy-intensive but also environmentally unsustainable. As we are all committed to reducing our carbon footprint and living in harmony with nature, it's good to know that there are greener, more ecological ways to keep our homes cool during a heatwave. In this Blog, I explore the sustainable strategies that focus on making your home and garden work with nature…
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Making your home winter-proof in the summer

Why summer is the perfect time to retrofit for winter As summer unfolds, it's easy to forget the chills of winter. Yet, this season offers the perfect window to prepare your home for the colder months ahead. Retrofitting your property during the summer can save you time, stress - and money, ensuring your home is not only cosy but also energy-efficient when the temperatures drop. 1. Avoid the winter rush During winter, everyone rushes to fix drafts, insulate roofs, and upgrade heating systems. This surge in demand can lead to higher prices, longer wait times for contractors, and a lot…
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Are you looking to purchase your first electric vehicle?

10 smart tips for choosing your first electric vehicle Switching to an electric vehicle (EV) is an exciting and forward-thinking decision, but with so many options on the market, choosing your first EV can be overwhelming. Whether you're motivated by environmental concerns, rising fuel prices, or the appeal of cutting-edge technology, selecting the right EV requires careful consideration. Here are 10 smart tips to help you navigate the process and find the perfect electric vehicle for your needs. 1. Understand your driving needs Before diving into the world of electric vehicles, take some time to evaluate your driving habits. Consider…
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Cement recycling: paving the way to a sustainable future

The magic of recycling cement In an exciting breakthrough, researchers from the University of Cambridge have unveiled a method to produce very low-emission concrete on a large scale. This innovation has the potential to revolutionise the transition to net zero emissions. Described as "an absolute miracle" by the researchers, the method leverages electrically-powered arc furnaces, traditionally used in steel recycling, to recycle cement, the most carbon-intensive component of concrete. Given that concrete is the second most-used material on Earth, after water, and is responsible for around 7.5% of global CO₂ emissions, this development could be a game-changer in reducing our…
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Politics and the circular economy

Framing the UK's environmental ambition: a pre-election insight As the upcoming General Election approaches, the UK stands at a pivotal juncture to redefine its environmental ambitions for the next half-decade. Despite the 2019 enshrinement of a 2050 Net Zero target, progress towards this goal has faced substantial criticism. Accelerating this journey requires a collective shift in focus, steering the nation towards a sustainable future. Decarbonisation and the circular economy Achieving decarbonisation demands a departure from traditional production models towards a 'circular' economy. This paradigm shift transforms the outdated 'take-make-waste' approach into a 'reuse-recycle-renew' framework, emphasising sustainability and resource efficiency. Both the…
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Our guide to solar arrays vs. solar panels

Harnessing the sun's power In the quest for sustainable energy solutions, solar technology has taken centre stage, especially in the environmentally conscious UK market. With the government's current commitment to reducing carbon emissions and the increasing affordability of solar installations, it's no surprise that many are turning to solar power. However, confusion often arises when differentiating between solar arrays and solar panels. This blog post aims to clarify these terms and their significance in the solar energy landscape. Solar Cells: the building blocks At the heart of solar technology lies the solar cell; a device that converts sunlight into electricity. These…
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Protecting your home: weatherproofing tips for all eventualities

Our unpredictable weather With the UK's weather continuing to shift from being intensely cold to predicted April/May heatwaves (with talk of snow flurries in between) we thought that now would be a good time to post some tips that could help you to protect your home... whatever the weather. Preparing for cold weather Proper insulation is key to keeping your home warm and energy-efficient during the cold weather. Whilst the autumn-winter season is ordinarily the perfect time of the year to take care of these fixes, it's never too late - or too early - to put things in place.…
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How to create a biodiverse and wildlife-friendly garden

England has recently introduced biodiversity legislation In a world first, England has recently introduced legislation requiring all new developments to boost nature. The biodiversity net gain law (BNG) came into force on February 12th, 2024 and ensures that habitats for wildlife are left in a measurably better state than they were before the development. New habitats must also deliver a 10% biodiversity gain, rather than simply replacing what has been lost. The Royal Institute of British Architects said that the law represents a 'major change' for architects, who would now have to "design with nature". Scotland, Sweden and Singapore are among…
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The Arts and Crafts movement: honouring tradition in modern homes

Arts and Crafts - a timeless classic   The Arts and Crafts movement, which emerged in the late 19th and early 20th Centuries, remains a timeless inspiration for home design today. Rooted in a philosophy of craftsmanship, simplicity and respect for natural materials, Arts and Crafts architecture offers a unique blend of traditional and modern elements. By incorporating elements of Arts and Crafts design into your current home or new build, and adding your own unique style, you can create a space that is both aesthetically pleasing and deeply meaningful. So, let the spirit of the Arts and Crafts movement…
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Net Zero Carbon homes are gaining in popularity

Built to last As a background to Carl Dodd's personal Scottish border NZC build (based on an adapted traditional vernacular design), we wanted to write about the concept of Net Zero Carbon homes, and explore why you could consider building one, discuss the benefits of living in such a home, and provide practical tips on making your current home more energy efficient. (c) Carl Dodd / PRL - KLB - Scottish Net Zero Carbon New Build (on-going) If Carl's build has inspired you to build your own sustainable home, or make energy-efficient upgrades to your existing home, every step toward…
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Why improving indoor air quality matters

  'All we need is the air that we breathe…' When we think about air pollution, we often picture smog-filled city streets or industrial emissions. However, the quality of the air inside our homes and buildings can also have a significant impact on our health and well-being. Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) refers to the cleanliness and purity of the air within enclosed spaces such as: homes, offices, schools and public buildings. It encompasses factors such as the presence of pollutants, levels of humidity, and ventilation rates. Poor indoor air quality can lead to a range of health issues, including respiratory…
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Affordable warmth for all: heating your home sustainably

Staying warm and comfortable in colder temperatures Ensuring that everyone has access to affordable warmth is a crucial aspect of sustainable living. Affordable warmth refers to the ability to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature without experiencing financial hardship. This Blog Post explores what affordable warmth means, why it's important, and provides practical guidance on how everyone can heat their homes sustainably. Affordable warmth is about more than just heating your home; it's about ensuring that everyone has the means to stay warm and comfortable, regardless of their income or housing situation. It's a fundamental aspect of social and environmental justice, as…
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Water neutrality: what it is and how you can achieve it

Understanding water neutrality In an era of increasing concern about water scarcity and environmental sustainability, the concept of water neutrality has gained prominence. But what exactly does it mean, and how can individuals work towards achieving it? In this Blog post, we'll delve into the concept of water neutrality, exploring its significance and providing practical guidance on reducing water consumption to minimise your water footprint. Water neutrality is a concept aimed at balancing the amount of water consumed, with the amount of water returned to the environment, through conservation and restoration efforts. Essentially, it involves striving to ensure that the…
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How we can all take steps to preserve biodiversity

What exactly is biodiversity? Biodiversity is the diversity within species, between species and of ecosystems. It is declining globally, faster than at any other time in human history. The world's 7.6 billion people represent just 0.01% of all living things by weight, but humanity has caused the loss of 83% of all wild mammals and half of all plants. Biodiversity loss and ecosystem collapse is one of the top five risks in the World Economic Forum's 2020 Global Risks Report, too. How biodiversity can help our health Higher rates of biodiversity have been linked to an increase in health. Plants are essential…
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How to make 2024 a greener year

A New Year brings a whole host of lifestyle opportunities The New Year gives us all time to reflect on our lifestyles and consider how we can make positive changes for the planet. Green New Year's resolutions not only benefit the environment, but can also lead to a healthier, more sustainable way of life. In this Blog, we'll explore a variety of creative and impactful resolutions for 2024. These are my New Year Resolutions for 2024: 1 - I would like to re-do my Carbon Footprint using the WWF Carbon Footprint Calculator (https://footprint.wwf.org.uk) - and review my Net Zero Carbon…
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How to have a ‘greener’ Christmas

Have yourself a merry green Christmas... As the festive season approaches, the joy of Christmas often comes hand-in-hand with excess and waste. However, it's entirely possible to enjoy a merry Christmas while being mindful of our impact on the planet. In this Blog, we'll explore creative and eco-friendly ways for us all to have a green and sustainable Christmas. Food preparation Mindful meal planning: Plan your Christmas meals carefully to avoid overbuying. Estimate portion sizes and create shopping lists to minimise food waste. Local and seasonal ingredients: Choose local and seasonal produce. Not only does this support local farmers, but…
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Christmas trees: real vs. fake – which is the more environmentally friendly option?

The big question... Real Christmas trees may be better for the environment, but, you may be asking, aren't artificial or fake Christmas trees a better option? No, just because they are re-used year after year, it does not mean that they are more sustainable. This is due to the typical rules of sustainability not applying when it comes to the humble Christmas tree. The Christmas tree debate on real vs. artificial (and which benefits the environment more), has been ongoing for decades. The debate is not helped by the fact that artificial Christmas trees can last many years, if they're…
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A breath of fresh air: home ventilation and sustainable living

As winter draws in… Although you may feel like closing the curtains tight and shutting all windows to keep the cold air out, this practice could be harming your home - and yourself. It's only natural as the air outside gets colder, to want to cosy-up indoors - but in doing so, we are also in danger of blocking out the fresh air that we need so much. With sustainable living, we often focus on energy-efficient appliances, renewable energy sources, and eco-friendly materials. However, one crucial aspect that is sometimes overlooked is home ventilation. The air we breathe within our…
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Heat pumps: all you need to know

The heat pump grant With the news that the government's homeowner's heat pump grant has been increased to £7,500, we take a look at why heat pumps lower pollution and energy bills. Heat pumps emit far less pollution than gas boilers and can lower bills, but they are expensive to buy - the government is hoping that the scheme will lower the cost of installing a new heat pump, in line with that of a gas boiler. There are 27 million old gas and oil boilers and the aim is to replace 600,000 a year, but the current rate is…
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It’s never too early to winter-proof your home

  The perfect time of the year to plan ahead There are better ways to keep warm than simply turning up the heating. This is PRLs guide to making your home more energy-efficient. Even though we are about to enter another heatwave (in October!) there has never been a better time to make positive, winter-proofing changes. Draughts You need to find out where heat escapes from - and cold air enters. Places that may let in draughts include windows, doors, floorboards, chimneys and loft hatches. Hold a candle near windows, doors and other areas to see if the flame dances…
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Our 2050 net zero target: watered down or more realistic?

  All change… for now at least As PM Rishi Sunak has recently announced plans to weaken some of the government's green commitments, we take a look at what this means. The new-look plans include a delay on banning the sale of new petrol and diesel cars, and policies being scrapped that would force landlords to upgrade efficiency in their homes. Even before these latest changes though, the UK was being criticised for falling behind in its efforts to reach "net zero" by 2050. This date marks a key international target intended to avoid the worst impacts of climate change. Mr Sunak…
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The many benefits of choosing to live in a tiny home

The draw of tiny home living In an era characterised by environmental concerns, economic realities, and a growing desire for minimalism, the concept of tiny home living has gained remarkable popularity. Tiny homes are compact, efficient living spaces that prioritise functionality, sustainability and a simplified lifestyle. For those considering a shift towards this unique way of living, the benefits extend far beyond the reduced square footage. Embracing sustainable living through tiny homes Sustainability is at the forefront of global consciousness, and tiny homes provide an ideal platform for putting eco-friendly principles into action. Tiny homes inherently have a smaller carbon footprint due…
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Sustainable living: reducing waste by up-cycling old furniture

Reducing waste in a thoughtful and creative way Up-cycling old furniture is an easy and sustainable way to give your space a fresh look, without breaking the bank, or harming the environment. As our population continues to grow, so does the amount of waste we produce. Fortunately, there are ways to reduce this waste - and help make a difference for the environment. Benefits of sustainable living There are many benefits of sustainable living, but one of the most important is reducing waste. When we up-cycle old furniture, we are giving it a new life and extending its usefulness. This…
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How walking in forests and woods can ease our modern-day stress

How Shinrin-yoku can lead us towards a more sustainable and healthy way of living In the hustle and bustle of modern life, finding moments of tranquillity and connection with nature can be challenging. However, the ancient practice of Shinrin-yoku, also known as 'forest bathing', offers a refreshing and rejuvenating solution. Originating from Japan, Shinrin-yoku involves immersing oneself in the peaceful embrace of forests and woodlands to reap numerous physical, mental, and emotional benefits. So, let's embark on a journey into the heart of nature and discover how Shinrin-yoku can lead us towards a healthier way of life. What is Shinrin-yoku, and…
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How rainwater harvesting can help to conserve energy

Rainwater harvesting: an eco-friendly practice In our pursuit of sustainability, it is essential to explore innovative ways to conserve precious resources and reduce our ecological footprint. Rainwater harvesting offers a simple, yet effective, solution. By collecting and utilising rainwater, homeowners can reduce their reliance on mains water, which often uses significant energy for treatment and distribution. Understanding rainwater harvesting and its benefits Rainwater harvesting is the practice of collecting and storing rainwater that falls on rooftops and other surfaces. The collected rainwater can then be utilised for various non-potable purposes, such as watering gardens, flushing toilets, and washing clothes. This environmentally friendly…
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How rewilding and peat restoration play a vital part in achieving Sustainability

  Two key practices that contribute significantly to sustainability In the pursuit of achieving a sustainable future, it is crucial to explore and implement various approaches that restore and protect our ecosystems. Rewilding involves restoring natural habitats and reintroducing native species, while peat restoration focuses on rehabilitating degraded peatlands. Why rewilding is so important Rewilding plays a vital role in achieving sustainability by fostering biodiversity, improving ecosystem resilience, and mitigating the impacts of climate change. By creating larger and interconnected habitats, rewilding helps to restore natural ecological processes, support endangered species, and enhance ecosystem services such as pollination, water purification…
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How changing your diet can make a difference in the fight against climate change

Our food's ecological footprint We hope that you enjoy reading our foray into all things food - we appreciate that not everyone wants to change their diet, but we thought we would give you some… 'food for thought'! If you are looking for a way to make a meaningful impact on the fight against climate change, maybe it is time to look at what you are eating. The food we consume has an ecological footprint, starting from the resources used to grow and transport it, through to its carbon emissions during production and disposal. By changing our diets, we can…
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The importance of energy sufficiency in achieving a sustainable future

An introduction to energy sufficiency The term "energy sufficiency" refers to the societal need for access to enough energy resources that don't cause environmental damage. In order to achieve a sustainable future, it is important to become energy efficient and use renewable resources. Many individuals and businesses are now beginning to understand the importance of energy sufficiency in order to achieve sustainability. Achieving energy sufficiency will require a major shift in how we produce and use energy. It is essential that we move away from our dependency on fossil fuels and towards using renewable energy sources that are environmentally friendly.…
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One Planet Living: How to tread lightly on the Earth

Just how low can you go? How can you have a low impact, low carbon lifestyle, without sacrificing comfort or principles? You can make a start by using the WWF Carbon Footprint Calculator.  WWF: "Our world is in crisis - from climate change to the pollution in our oceans and devastation of our forests. It's up to all of us to fix it…" We all know that we need to take steps towards a more environmentally sustainable lifestyle, but how do we go about this? One answer is 'treading lightly', an increasingly popular philosophy for reducing our carbon footprint and…
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Damp and Mould: Why education and retrofit are key to eradicating the health scourge of bad housing

Damp and Mould: two of the most common problems in poorly maintained housing The more people who can live a decent life by being kept out of fuel poverty and out of hospital, the better off the entire country is. Take a look at this Headline: Tackling cold homes would save the NHS £540mn per year, new BRE research reveals Here I examine the causes and health impacts of damp and mould and explore how education and retrofitting can help to eradicate these problems, particularly in low-income communities. Causes of damp and mould Damp and mould are caused by excess…
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Turning the tide on pollution: the future of sustainable plastic management

Why it's essential that we turn the tide Plastic pollution has been a pressing issue for decades now, and it's high time we take action to turn the tide on this problem. As we continue to use more plastic products in our daily lives, it's vital that we explore new ways of managing plastics sustainably. In this blog, we'll dive into some promising solutions that are set to revolutionise how we produce, consume and dispose of plastics. The initial problem The problem of plastic pollution is not new, but it has gained increased attention in recent years as the volume…
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In praise of wind power

A new dawn for supersized wind turbines in the UK? Supersize onshore wind turbines that reach twice the height of Big Ben could be built in England if the de facto ban is lifted. The current tallest wind turbine in England is 126.5m at a site in Essex. Bank Renewables, which developed the wind farm in South Lanarkshire, said it would be looking for sites in England if the ban were revoked. The effective ban was put in place in 2015 by tightening planning restrictions in the National Planning Policy Framework. To end the ban, the relevant planning regulations should be scrapped or clearly…
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How much should I pay for a plastic shopping bag?

It's an inconvenient fact but… everyone should be thinking like this these days (we live in the plastic age, after all). Every plastic bag that's produced for consumers to carry their goods home should have a price attached. Or, every shopper should be responsible for bringing their own bags into the store with them. Did you know that a reinforced, reusable plastic bag has a lower footprint than a paper one? Many shops have now moved to paper bags, which is progress, but also still a waste, because these get thrown away too, often after only one use. Awareness needs to…
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Mr Angry goes zero! (nearly)

The biggest picture Well, it was bound to happen! Since the shock of the Russian invasion of Ukraine I've been thinking of ways to reduce the use of gas, as a sign of protest. In February we (my wife and I) curtailed our gas usage quite a lot, and it felt good too, at least we made a token gesture. However, I knew that this protest about an unjust war was not the only problem right now. The big (est) picture is the Climate Crisis. The chaos in our country seems to be omnipresent, and it's also a cost-of-living crisis,…
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The Circular Economy: it’s time to rethink plastic use

Re-thinking our plastic usage It is clear to us at PRL that the thinking on plastics needs to radically change. Plastics may be versatile materials, but the way we use them is totally wasteful. Every year, millions of tonnes of plastic, worth billions, ends up being trashed, burned or leaked into the environment. 8 million tonnes of plastic leaks into the ocean every year, and that number is on the up. If we don't rethink, then by 2050 there will be more plastic in the ocean than fish (by weight). So, is it really possible to rethink the way we…
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The Retrofit solution to climate change

From record-breaking heatwaves... to biblical flooding The effects of Climate Change are definitely being felt around the world. Think about the floods of biblical proportions, and the annual forest fires that can't be controlled. Each record being broken is a step closer to an environmental collapse. Do you think that 2050 is too distant to care about? It's not, but you would not think that if you listened to the world leaders. Their soundbites are constructed to relay a very optimistic message: '...there is no climate emergency'. The analogy of the Boiling Frog springs to mind here. If searingly hot,…
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There are less than 10,000 days to do… the road to net zero carbon

I recently read an interesting article which stated that if you count the number of days left until the UK has to meet its net zero carbon target, there are now less than 10,000 days to go. For context: 10,000 days ago was March 31st, 1995! What we have achieved since 1995 seems startlingly, woefully inadequate. We are at the halfway point - but we are not really halfway there. Since 1995, the names may have changed, but the problems haven't. The Challenge is even greater now Waiting for the amazing carbon capture revolution, the massive tree planting campaigns and…
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