These days, many of us are looking for ways and means to help us be more sustainable and environmentally friendly.
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Smartphone apps are one way that can help people do just that.
The information is instantaneous and convenient – although some are clearly better than others. Some of the useful apps include:
1. RecycleSmart – created by PlanetArk – This is your comprehensive recycling guide, no matter where you live. RecycleSmart answers the perennial question: “Which bin does this thing go in?” Its database covers 550 councils to categorise waste materials from more than 180 household items. It is, of course, up to councils to provide the information that goes into the app, but it has the potential to help councils provide up to date information to their residents quickly.
2. Litterati – Develop in the US after Jeff Kirschner started documenting litter in his own area on his Instagram account. It is now an app for anybody to document litter – a great opportunity for crowd sourcing information on litter hotspots. People can photograph and #tag the item – it is also geotagged.
3. Energy rating – Created by the Department of Industry. Our appliances are responsible for a huge percentage of our home energy use. This app compares the running costs of popular appliances and is created by the same people who developed the energy rating stickers we now see on appliances. If you’re in the market for a new washer dryer, air conditioner, TV, computer, dishwasher or fridge, this app can help you make a better purchase. You can look up some of your older appliances to see how much they’re costing you each year too. You’ll just need to know the model of your appliance for the most accurate info.
4. Love your leftovers – Created by the Cumberland Council. Organic waste is one of the biggest landfill issues that consumers have a hand in. About 1 in 3 kilograms of food is wasted across Australia. Options for reducing food waste are presented in this app. For example, you can reduce your impact by whipping up your droopy carrots into a lovely new meal. Search recipes via leftover ingredient and plan your weekly meals all in one place. Other apps with a similar focus include Olio, which connects you with neighbours and local shops so your excess food and supplies can be shared.
5. Op Shops App – a great little guide to all the opshops around Australia. Great if you are a regular opshopper or travelling in a new location.
This is just a selection – there are many other great apps and lots of average ones. Many are free or a small cost only, but can be useful in providing some information when you need it.
