We throw away around 6 million appliances a year in the UK. Most of these end up in dustbins, when they could be reused or recycled by someone. Instead, take them to a second hand shop, charity shop, or your local recycling centre.

Before you buy yet another labour saving device think – have I already got something that will do the job? Preferably something that doesn’t use energy.

When choosing an appliance, refer to Gooshing to get good advice on what to buy, from the most ethical supplier.

The Energy Saving Trust provide information on products and retailers.