PLANT A TREE - shade can significantly reduce your cooling costs, while trees that act as windbreakers will shield your home against cold wins thus reducing the cost of heat.

CONSERVE ENERGY - replace your incandescent light bulbs with compact florescent light bulbs (CFLs). You'll not only conserve energy, but you'll save on your electricity bill.

MAKE YOUR OWN COMPOST - dispose of organic waste such as grass clippings and fruit & veggie off off cuts by building a compost heap. Build it in your garden or in a container.

OPTIMISE YOUR GEYSER - insulating or covering your geyser will keep your water hotter for longer. This also allows you to turn down the temperature which conserves energy.

SAVE WATER - ensure that none of your taps are leaky and install low-flow showerheads and toilets, which not only saves water but also reduces your water account.

RECYCLE - reduce the amount of non-degradable rubbish by recycling. Separate items such as plastics, tins, glass and paper. You can even send these tiems to recycling plants.

GO NATURAL - use floor products made from rapidly renewable resources, such as bamboo or linoleum. Also select woods, when possible, for furniture or cabinetry.