At Bord Gáis Energy we’re committed to satisfying the changing needs of our customers especially when it comes to improving the energy efficiency in their homes. Since we introduced Hive to the Irish market, we’ve installed thousands of smart energy management devices across Ireland, helping our customers monitor and reduce their everyday energy consumption.
We all have a part to play in helping the environment and you can do your bit by making a few little lifestyle changes. Pretty soon, sustainable living will be the norm and if you need help kickstarting your contribution, you can find a few handy little tips below.
Not only will these ideas help to reduce plastic waste, they'll also save you a few quid in the long run which is always nice.
1. Swap your laundry detergent for an eco-egg
An eco and budget-friendly alternative to regular chemical detergents that’s also great for anyone with sensitive skin or allergies.
Packed with unique, natural and powerful cleaning pellets, the eco-egg contains no harsh chemicals, instead consisting of two types of mineral pellets encased in a recyclable egg that naturally lift dirt.
2. Replace your single-use plastic with reusable alternatives
Ireland is said to be one of Europe's top five plastic waste offenders, with water bottles making up around 14% of all plastic waste found in Irish rivers.
Investing in a reusable bottle as well as using Tupperware containers instead of cling film and tin foil will mean that you can help reduce this, all while carrying around a trendy and colourful design of your choice. Make sure to pick up a reusable glass or bamboo straw instead of using wasteful plastic straws, too.
3. Buy loose fruit and veg
Cutting down on the amount of packaging you take home from the supermarket is a really simple way to reduce plastic waste. Most stores will stock loose and fresh fruit and veg and you can do your bit by buying yours this way.
4. Get a bamboo toothbrush
Having a plastic toothbrush is pretty much taken for granted but switching to bamboo is another efficient way to reduce waste. They can be
picked up for as little as €3 and provide gentle and effective cleaning.
5. Start using beeswax food wraps
It's quite obvious that putting your lunch in plastic packaging every day isn't great for the environment.
These washable wraps are made from 100% beeswax and will keep your food fresh without you having to resort to plastic.
6. Switch to plastic-free cosmetics
Use shampoo and conditioner bars. A good one will last up to 80 washes so it's good for your wallet too.
7. Make your own eco cleaning products
Cut down on harsh chemicals around your house with some homemade cleaning products using everyday items.
So instead of using bleach or harsh soaps, mix baking soda and vinegar in a spray bottle to have your kitchen counters gleaming in no time, and you can even add a couple of drops of essential oils like orange or lavender for a clean scent. Or, try adding a cup or two of lemon juice to your next wash to whiten up your whites without the need for chemicals.
Bord Gáis Energy have installed thousands of Hive Active Heating units in homes across Ireland, helping our customers collectively manage their energy consumption. The energy efficiency impact of this equates to over 18GWh’s of energy. It sounds small but one tonne of recycled plastic saves 5,774 kWh of energy. So, for 18GWh, that’s the equivalent of 3,117 tonnes of plastic being recycled. *
*Energy Efficiency impact is based 10,000+ Hive Active Heating Units and SEAI published savings figure for Entry Level Heating Controls Upgrade only with remote access. 
