Nearly two weeks into January, how are you getting on with your New Year’s Resolutions? Bored of pretending that cheese, booze and chocolate don’t exist? Tired of then gym, or guiltily ignoring the fact that you have yet to try meditating? At this point, it’s a good to give yourself a break and focus on something else.

One resolution which could still set your karma climbing is to make changes that help the rest if the world, as well as yourself. Of course, you may have already booked your trip to volunteer in a school, in which case you’re streaks ahead. But making a resolution to help the planet, from the comfort of your own home, is a good start.

Eco-friendly business is a priority at Hire A Box. Hiring reduces the carbon foot print of our packaging material, reduces waste and over-production. Cardboard is also a far gentler choice in environmental terms, being biodegradable and recyclable.

However, you can make a few small changes in your own home or work place that really make a difference. And if your first resolution was to save up some money, saving energy can also save you cash. There are hundreds of tiny changes that can save energy, but here are some of the most effective:

Switch off lights…

If you’re not using a room, or you’re not at home, remember to flick the switch. Lamps and spotlights also use less power than main lights. You can also switch to energy efficient lightbulbs for extra karma.

Don’t make your appliances works harder than they need to…

Leave hot food to cool rather than putting it straight into the fridge, otherwise more power will be used to try and maintain the constant temperature. Also, try not to open oven doors too often while cooking, and get organised to defrost items ahead of time in the fridge rather than the microwave.

Switch off taps when they’re not necessary…

Like while you’re brushing your teeth. Dishwashers are saviours for anyone who hates washing up, but try and wait until it’s fully loaded to avoid over use. Most come with a ‘Eco’ setting as well, designed to use less water and power.

Recycle your rubbish where you can…

But also try and cut down on your waste by avoiding extra plastic bags where possible. Purchasing fruit and veg from your local grocer can really cut down on waste packaging. Australia is famed for its beautiful beaches, recycling can help stop them being polluted by waste plastics.