Sustainable Living in Scotland

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  • Wind turbines on a field at sunset with a dramatic sky and glowing horizon.

    Save Energy at Home

    Turn off lights and devices when not in use.

    Only fill the kettle with what you need (you’ll be amazed how much energy this saves!).

    Use low-temperature washes (30°C) for laundry — it’s gentler on clothes and the planet.

  • Smart, Sustainable Transport

    Use Lothian Buses or Edinburgh Trams instead of driving — both accept contactless payments.

    For short journeys, walk or cycle — Napier campuses have secure bike racks.

    Try ridsharing apps or carpooling with classmates for trips outside the city.

  • Interior of a thrift store with clothing, furniture, and decor items. Several customers browsing, some wearing face masks. Bright lighting from ceiling fixtures and skylights.

    Shop Sustainably

    Explore charity shops and vintage stores — perfect for thrifting unique outfits while supporting local causes.

    Swap clothes with friends instead of buying new.

    Donate items you no longer need to give them a second life.

  • Five colored recycling bins lined up on a sidewalk in front of a building with a window, including two green, one brown, and two blue bins, marked with the Falkirk Council logo.

    Recycling in Scotland

    Blue Bin – Paper, cardboard, clean plastics, tins, and cans.
    Rinse containers before recycling — food residue can cause the whole batch to be rejected.

    Brown Bin – Food waste.
    Most councils (including Edinburgh) collect food waste weekly. Use compostable bags and tie them securely.

    Grey/Green Bin – General waste (non-recyclables).

    Don’t throw glass, batteries, or electronics here — they need special collection points.

    Glass Points – Found near supermarkets and residential areas.
    Remove lids and rinse bottles before dropping them off.

  • Simple Ways to Live Greener

    Bring your own reusable cup for coffee — many cafés give discounts.

    Carry a reusable bag when shopping to cut plastic use.

    Walk, cycle, or use public transport whenever you can.

    Buy second-hand or locally made items to support sustainable Scottish businesses.

  • Group of young people laughing and working together on laptops in a library.

    Learn, Share, and Inspire

    Living sustainably isn’t about being perfect — it’s about being aware. Every choice you make adds up.

    Share what you learn with others, and help make your community a greener, friendlier place.