Here in the UK there’s nothing we enjoy more than having a good old moan about the weather. Dull overcast skies and soggy conditions give us the perfect excuse to complain about failed BBQ plans and the washout English summer. But yesterday, things were different. Temperatures soared above 38 degrees and many of us got the tropical climate we often wish for.

But was the heat it all it was cracked up to be?

Certainly not.

Without the luxury of pleasant breeze and pool to cool off in, the heat was uncomfortable and potentially dangerous. People stayed inside, sleeping was almost impossible and we were all suffering. So if this is a taste of what’s to come and we’ve finally got a real idea of the impact global warming will have on our everyday lives – isn’t it time we woke up to the fact we’ve got to act? The alternative might just be hotter and hotter summers in our lifetimes, but imagine the consequences for our children’s children!

18 months to save the planet

Experts now predict that rather than there being 12 years left to save the planet, the next 18 months will be crucial in dealing with global warming.

"The climate math is brutally clear: While the world can't be healed within the next few years, it may be fatally wounded by negligence until 2020," said Hans Joachim Schellnhuber, founder and now director emeritus of the Potsdam Climate Institute.

The sense that the end of next year is the last chance saloon for climate change is becoming clearer all the time.

The impact of methane

Methane is one of the most potent greenhouse gasses. It is the main culprit in the trapping of heat close to the earth causing global warming. Rotting waste in landfill makes a huge contribution to the methane levels in our atmosphere. Reducing your waste levels and actively ensuring waste is recycled, rather than diverted to landfill can make a significant difference.

Small Action Big Impact

So, what practical steps can your business actively take to make the difference?

• Reduce the use of plastic

• Reduce and recycle food waste

• Segregated recycling: separate paper and card from plastics and cans using different bins and arranging separate collections

• Coffee cups & grounds recycling: drinks cups can’t be recycled with regular paper and card so collect them separately and organise a specific collection for them

• Re-use: provide and use glasses, china cups and plates in your workplace to reduce the use of disposable items

• Have a policy of turning all lights off in kitchen and bathroom areas when not in use

Cawleys can provide bespoke waste advice and a FREE audit to help you reduce the amount of waste.