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Water is one of the most precious resources we have, and therefore also one of the most used. It is important to know how to optimise this natural resource in order to protect the planet and ensure a sustainable future. Here are a few tips on how to save water at home in your everyday life. In addition to reducing the cost of your water bill, you will be helping to improve the planet because every little bit counts! And of course, don't forget to read our tips and tricks for saving energy at home. Tips for saving water in the home How to save water in the bathroom The bathroom is the area of the house where most water is used. It is therefore very important that you know how to act and optimise all the resources at your disposal to save as much water as possible. Here are a few tips: Showering instead of bathing: replace bathing with showering and you can save more than 50% of water. To give you an idea, a bath uses approximately 200 litres of water, while a shower uses less than 50 litres. Similarly, keep the tap turned off when you are soaping up or washing your hair. Bear in mind that around 12 litres of water are wasted every minute the tap is turned on. Turn off the tap: when you are brushing your teeth, shaving or soaping your hands, keep the tap turned off to avoid wasting water. For example, if you brush your teeth without turning off the tap you will waste an average of 6 litres of water, but if you turn it on only when necessary, you will only use half a litre. Install a diffuser or water reducer on shower and sink taps to reduce the flow rate. Bathtub reducers: if you have small children, we recommend that you buy a bathtub reducer to avoid having to fill the entire bathtub. Don't use the toilet as a waste bin: don't flush cigarette butts, plasters, non-disposable wipes or rubbish down the toilet because, as well as saving water by reducing the number of times you flush, you will also prevent the toilet from clogging. Also, this type of waste is harmful to the environment and poses a danger to the ecosystem. Fix leaks: although this also applies to other areas of the house such as the garden or kitchen, it is important to fix water leaks in taps, hoses, showers... Failure to do so can cost up to 100 litres a day. Water-saving tricks for your cistern: install a button that allows two types of flushing according to your needs. If this is not possible, you can add a bag of pebbles or sand to your cistern's load. You will save up to 50% water. Recommendations for saving water in the kitchen If you want to learn how to use kitchen water more efficiently, take a look at these recommendations: Do not rinse dishes: it is not necessary to rinse dishes before putting them in the dishwasher. Some experts claim that this can even be counterproductive, as the soap needs to be dirty to perform better. In addition, the dishwasher operates at high enough temperatures to disinfect everything properly. Charge appliances to 100%: make sure that appliances such as the washing machine or dishwasher are at 100% load capacity before you put them on. In addition to saving water at home, you will also reduce electricity consumption. Efficient appliances: Whenever you can and when you are changing appliances, opt for those that are energy efficient or have built-in water-saving programmes. Turn off the tap: as in the bathroom, keep the tap turned off while you are, for example, cleaning or soaping up the dishes. This can save a considerable amount of water. Washing and defrosting food: instead of washing fruit or vegetables under running tap water, wash them in a bowl of water. Similarly, to defrost food, do not defrost it under the tap, but at room temperature or in the fridge. Speaking of food, here are some tips to save on groceries that you'll want to know about. How to save water in your garden and swimming pool Finally, if your home has a garden or private pool, take a look at these water-saving measures. Watering cans and sprinklers: For watering pots or small areas, water by hand with watering cans and sprayers. If you need to use sprinklers, program them efficiently and according to the manufacturer's instructions. Water in the evening or early morning: We recommend that you water your plants and lawns in the evening or early morning because during the central hours, due to the temperatures, water evaporates much faster. Tips for your pool: to prevent the water from getting dirty or evaporating during periods when it is not in use, cover the pool with a tarpaulin to avoid having to fill it up again when the heat starts. These are some of the recommendations for saving water at home that will undoubtedly improve the consumption of this natural resource. Now it's up to you to put them into practice, for your future and for the environment!

More and more people care about the planet and therefore more and more trends are emerging with the aim of caring for the environment. One of the most talked about in recent months is that of bamboo toothbrushes, an ecological and biodegradable alternative that reduces the consumption of plastics and that is not only respectful with the environment, but also offers a lot of benefits for you . Do you want to know which ones? Keep reading! Ah! And don't forget to take a look at our post about plastic crafts. We give you a lot of ideas to give a second life to those utensils that you use in your day to day. Environmental benefits of bamboo toothbrushes The toothbrush is one of the most commonly used plastic objects. However, its components are polluting and have a great negative impact on the environment. To give you an idea, in Spain almost 3,000 tons of plastic from toothbrushes are discarded every year. Fortunately, there are alternatives that replace plastic with other natural materials, such as bamboo toothbrushes. These everyday objects help reduce plastic consumption, since both the packaging and the materials with which the brush is made are 100% degradable. Its bristles are made with charcoal and its handle is made of bamboo. While a plastic toothbrush takes 400 years to decompose, a bamboo toothbrush takes just half a year. Similarly, plastic is very difficult to recycle and this often ends up in the sea (1% of ocean plastics come from toothbrushes). However, bamboo is a plant that requires very little care, its collection is very simple and its recycling much easier. But BEWARE! do not be fooled. There are some bamboo brushes that are not completely biodegradable, since their bristles are made of nylon. Similarly, experts recommend that bamboo be “Phyllostachys edulis”, a type of bamboo that, as it does not serve as food due to the altitude and the hardness of its leaves, its felling does not endanger the ecosystem of animals such as the bear. panda. Therefore, we recommend that you inform yourself well of the materials with which it is made before buying it, including its packaging. Benefits of toothbrushes for you In addition to the benefits related to sustainability and caring for the environment that bamboo brushes have, it should be noted that they also offer some other advantage for you and your health. Bamboo has antibacterial properties and considering that a toothbrush is in direct contact with our mouth and that it harbors a lot of bacteria, this can guarantee better oral hygiene. In addition, its bristles made with activated carbon are more delicate with the gums and tooth enamel than those made with nylon. Also, thanks to the handle made of bamboo, the grip is much softer and more comfortable than that of a traditional brush. Price and where to buy bamboo toothbrushes Although many believe otherwise, the price difference between a plastic toothbrush and one made from bamboo is minimal. Although bamboo ones always tend to have a higher price, they are only a few cents more. A tiny difference that can make a big difference to the environment. As for where you can buy them. A few years ago this type of brush was a very exotic and rare object, so it could only be found in specialized stores. However, today thanks to the high demand that there is, you can find your bamboo toothbrush in any pharmacy, supermarket or trusted online store. As you can see, switching to eco-friendly alternatives, such as a simple bamboo toothbrush, to reduce the consumption of plastic in homes, is one of the first steps we must take to take care of our planet. The environment needs our help now more than ever and every little gesture counts.

Every month we suffer one of the biggest annoyances for our pocket: the electricity bill. And more, with the latest price increases. In fact, it is estimated that in the last two decades, the cost of electrical energy has increased by more than 90%, and it does not seem that this trend will change. As soon as we see the electricity bill, we all think: "I have to save electricity whatever it takes." And it is no longer just because clean up our domestic economy, but to help the environment, since the production of this impacts (and a lot) on it. Therefore, within our policies Planet First, we want to share with you 10 tricks to save electricity at home. In DIVAIN we have already done them, and we have noticed the change! Habits and tricks for saving electricity Energy expenditure list The first step to be able to carry out the saving of electrical energy is to be fully aware of what we spend. To do this, it is best to make a list of electricity costs in which to capture all sources of light consumption, starting with the most (such as heating or air conditioning) and ending with the least (small appliances). Once identified, you will be able to undertake a reduction in use that suits you. Reduce the number of bulbs and switch to LEDs Although we are not aware, we usually have more bulbs than we need. Therefore, it is important to make a count and adjust them to the maximum so as not to incur unnecessary expenses. And it is that the light tends to overlap, so when we have several bulbs in the same space, if we remove one it is very likely that we will not notice a great loss of light. Try to remove one and if you see that it does not affect too much, consider removing it permanently or putting another much less powerful bulb. What we also recommend is that you introduce LED bulbs in your life. Why? Well, very simple: They are much more ecological, since they consume between 70 and 80% less than incandescent bulbs and 30% less than fluorescent bulbs. They have a longer shelf life. They are more resistant. Keep an eye on your appliances As a general rule, the appliances that spend the most are those in the kitchens. Refrigerators, freezers, washing machines and dishwashers machines account for almost 60% of the cost of all appliances in a home. So you can already imagine the importance of using them correctly: The fridge and freezer consume the most, and they do so even more when the doors are open. It opens and closes quickly to avoid high consumption. A curious fact: they consume more the emptier they are, since food that is already cold or frozen helps to keep the temperature low. As for the iron, it is good that you accumulate a good amount of clothes and take advantage of ironing everything in one go, otherwise, you will multiply the electricity consumption. Another trick: start with the clothes that require the least heat and save the ones that need the most for last. In addition, it is also recommended that if you have to buy a new appliance, invest a little more and get a model that includes low consumption mode and has greater energy efficiency. Models A, A +, A ++; they consume 55% less energy on average. They are more expensive, but in the long run it is worth it, and a lot. Stand-by is the worst enemy of saving electricity Another great trick to save energy is to disconnect electronic devices once we stop using them. And it is that when we turn them off, we are not doing it completely, they remain on stand-by. Yes, stand-by, that little red or blue light that stays on once we have turned off. In theory, the devices stay in this mode to update or to start faster the next time they are turned on, but this entails a disguised energy expenditure: the stand-by consumes electricity, nothing more and nothing less than between 8 and 1 10% of total consumption. So, that said, it's time to unplug everything! As doing it manually can be a bit tedious, we recommend that you connect several devices to the same power strip and simply disconnect the switches from the ones that you will not use for a while. Use the economy or low consumption mode whenever you can Many household appliances and electronic devices, such as the computer, the mobile phone or the washing machine, have saving or low consumption modes that are very efficient so as not to waste so much energy. Regulates the temperature of the heating and air conditioning Being at home with short sleeves in winter and a cardigan in summer is a real nonsense. Regulates the temperature to avoid incurring totally unnecessary energy costs. The importance of this regulation is incredible since increasing the heating temperature by just one degree can lead to an increase in energy consumption of 7%! In winter it is advisable to maintain a room temperature between 19 and 21 degrees during the day and between 15 and 17 degrees at night; while in summer, the ambient temperature should not be lower than 24 or 25 degrees. Adapt your customs If you adapt your hours of use of appliances to the hours of low consumption as far as possible, you will see a slight decrease in spending on your electricity bill. Most of the rates have the lowest prices on the weekend. Then take the opportunity to do the washing machines of the week, iron ... The nightly rate is also considerably cheaper, although it does not adapt well to the daily routine of most people. If you have a shift job or you are a night being, think about hiring the night rate because you will notice it. Change the contracted power to save money In the electricity bill, consumption is only part of what you pay, since a large part corresponds to taxes and the contracted power, which you have to pay even if you do not consume anything. The contracted power indicates the electricity that we can consume at the same time. And this represents an average of almost 50% of the total bill! So to save, it is very important to be fully aware of what we normally consume in order to be able to hire what is just and necessary (although we always recommend that you add a small margin in case something unforeseen arises). Insulate your home well from the outside It is estimated that nothing more and nothing less than 25% of the heat in the home is lost through the windows and the cracks in the doors. Therein lies the importance of checking all the leakage points well to be able to put insulators (in the cracks the most effective thing is to put weatherstripping) or even change doors or windows if these leaks are irreparable. Electricity consumption monitor Finally, we recommend that you get an electricity consumption monitor. These devices are connected to the electrical circuit and carry out a total monitoring of consumption, in order to identify the parameters in which a greater expenditure is being made. This will make it easier for you to identify where you can save electricity in your home. Why is it important to save energy? Electric energy is produced through generating plants such as thermoelectric or hydroelectric ones; and these produce a great environmental impact, since natural resources are massively consumed and the ecosystem is destroyed. In addition, in the case of thermoelectric plants, fossil fuels are burned, which generate greenhouse gas emissions that seriously damage the environment. Thus, the more energy we save, the less we consume, with the consequent benefit for the environment. You know, Planet First!

More and more companies are committed to society and the environment, with the aim of generating a positive impact to help improving the well-being and progress of present and future generations. And, like us, many of them already have their own strategic plans based on sustainability. We from DIVAIN will suggest a few actions that you carry out to become a sustainable company as well. Your customers and the planet will thank you. Pay attention! What is a sustainable company? A sustainable company is one that carries out actions and policies whilst taking their economic, social and environmental responsibility, with the aim of generating a positive impact on its environment. For example, they try to reduce the carbon footprint, generate less waste, recycle or promote a healthier life to avoid the deterioration of the environment and society. At DIVAIN we love the planet and that is why we invite you to learn more about our actions and commitments to the environment. Get inspired! How to be a sustainable company? Here we will give you 7 practical tips to start being a sustainable company. Control energy consumption Keep track of your company's energy consumption and carry out measures to reduce this . Make the most of sunlight, regulate the room temperature efficiently and do not misuse the heating or air conditioning. Likewise, check out if it is necessary to change the air conditioning equipment to others with lower energy consumption. On the other hand, turn off and unplug equipment and machines when no one is using them. You have no idea of the energy consumption of a copier or printer can have, even if they are turned off. By the way! Here you can find our post with the best tips to save energy, both in the work environment and in your own home. Choose local or suppliers close by Choose to hire local or suppliers close by that act responsible with regards to the environment. Ideally, your products should be made with sustainable raw materials and have an organic certification seal. Environmental training It is essential to make your employees aware of the environmental impact that a company can have. Organize educational campaigns about the environment and promote a sustainable work environment. Encourage small actions that help the planet, such as each employee having their own cup or thermos for coffee, instead of using disposable cups. Also, put up creative reminders or posters in the different facilities reminding you of the importance of recycling or turning off the lights when you go out. Sustainable transportation Whenever possible, choose to transport your products by road to minimize your carbon footprint, as air and sea transport are much more polluting. On the other hand, organize shifts so that your employees can share transport or promote the use of sustainable transport such as electric or hybrid vehicles. Also, try to encourage public transport or cycling for trips to the office. Digitalization Teleworking: whenever feasible, promote teleworking in your company, either permanently or for a few days a month. In the same way, think twice about the necessity of a business trip and think about possibilities of a videoconference or a phone call. Save paper: reduce paper use by promoting digitization. Why use filing cabinets full of documents when you can store thousands of files on a computer? Print only what is strictly necessary and you will help avoid deforestation problems and climate change. Also, if you cannot avoid its use, opt for recycled paper that requires much less resources to manufacture. Online advertising: although this will depend on the type of business, you can bet on online advertising, instead of brochures or print ads. Sustainable or reusable packaging Reduce the environmental impact of the entire production process, by using for example renewable energy sources. Similarly, use materials for the manufacture of your products and packaging that are ecological and reusable or biodegradable. Waste management In a company it is essential that there is a waste management policy that minimizes the impact of industrial activity on the environment as much as possible. Put aside the "use and throw" and put into practice the rule of the 3Rs: reduce the number of waste generated, recycle and reuse everything you can. Reduce the environmental impact of the industrial activity of your business by carrying out these actions and becoming a sustainable company. Don't forget, the future of the planet is in our hands. #PlanetFirst

Oil is one of the most used products in the kitchen and at the same time one of the most polluting, due to its high content of organic matter. The impact that oil can generate if it is disposed of incorrectly through the sink can have very negative consequences for the environment. That is why today we bring you some very interesting ideas to recycle used cooking oil. Take note! Every little gesture counts;) Why is it important to recycle oil? Discharging the oil down the sink can lead to clogged pipes, problems at recycling plants and even an increase in urban pests, as it can serve as food for cockroaches and other insects that move through the pipes. Also, not recycling the oil brings serious environmental problems. If this residue reaches the waters of the rivers, it can seriously harm living beings. To give you an idea: 1 liter of oil can contaminate up to 1000 liters of water and has 5,000 times more pollutant load than residual water. How to recycle used cooking oil If you want to dispose of the oil that you have used in your kitchen, you must take it to the clean point of your locality or throw it in a specific container for this waste. However, if you want to avoid these trips, here we propose other alternatives to recycle the oil and collaborate with the care of the environment. Make soap One of the best ideas for recycling vegetable cooking oil is to make soap. You will first need to filter it to remove any particles using a funnel. In addition, you will need other ingredients such as caustic soda, water and essential oils that give it a pleasant smell. Here we explain more in detail how to make soap with used oil. It is important that to carry out this process you choose a ventilated space and protect yourself well with gloves and protective glasses, since caustic soda expels toxic vapors. When you're done, you'll need to let the soap dry in its container for about 3-4 weeks before you can use it. By the way! Head over to our article with the best soap-scented perfumes and discover the freshest and most pleasant scents for your skin. Wood protector Use used cooking oil to protect the wood in your indoor and outdoor furniture. Spread the oil on the surface with a brush or brush and it will cover each pore of the wood giving a special shine. If you decide to use it for your garden furniture, we recommend that from time to time you add another layer of oil because external agents such as wind or sun spoil the wood more quickly. Grease hinges To prevent a worn and rusty hinge from squeaking or a lock from sticking, you can choose to add a few drops of filtered cooking oil to solve the problem. However, if the problem persists, we recommend that you do not abuse this product because according to experts, using it excessively on the hardware can lead to a malfunction of the piece. Make scented candles If you like to decorate your home with candles and create a cozy atmosphere, pay attention. You can use vegetable cooking oil to make scented candles. Take vegetable-based wax that you must have previously bought in a specialized store and put it to heat together with the oil and aromatic essences that you like the most. Pour the mixture into a container and add a wick that you can make yourself with a cotton cord. Let it cool until it solidifies and you will have your homemade candle. An advice: We recommend that before making your candle you add some cloves to the filtered oil so that they remove the remains that may remain of the smell of fried. Scrubs and skin creams Thanks to its beneficial properties for the skin, another alternative to recycle used oil is to use it to make an exfoliant. Mix ground coffee beans with the previously filtered oil and you will obtain a semi-solid paste that you can apply on your face or body to remove dead skin. Then wash the area with soap and water and apply a moisturizer for a perfect finish. In the same way, you can also make a cream by mixing the oil with beeswax that will be melted in a water bath. Now that you know what to do with used cooking oil, wait no more and start spending your free time putting these ideas that we have given you into practice. Make the most of it and help take care of the environment!