Every time we hop in the shower or turn the tap we’re using water – a precious natural resource - that had to be treated to make it safe to use. Once it’s down the drain it then has to be treated again. Cleaning waste water (aka grey or black water) is highly energy-intensive, as is heating water - so less is better in terms of energy savings too.

The first days with your new baby are some of the most memorable you’ll have. You’re settling into the very first chapter in your life as a parent! From swaddling to sleeping, cuddling to nappy changes, everything is new and exciting. Let’s be honest, it can also be quite daunting and especially to those of us who are not used to taking care of tiny humans.

Right now, buying a home may feel like an impossible dream for many first home buyers – particularly if you’re house hunting in our biggest city. Solution Street was founded in 2016 to address this very issue, and to bring affordable, well-designed and more sustainable homes to New Zealanders.

I do not like the idea that we are slowing down. For many, we are now expected to produce the same output with increased demands on our time. Juggling childcare, anxiety and job instability continues to take its toll. Being at home more often has forced me to think more about the space and all the things it contains.

Celebrating a new baby, whether at a baby shower or by giving a gift to the new parents, has been a key event for many years. These days, many parents, and gift givers, are also very aware of the impact of such events on the planet.

Autumn is the time to enjoy the last of our fruiting crops - capsicums and eggplants are pumping out fruit - and we sow seeds for our brassicas (kale, cauliflower, cabbage and broccoli) to enjoy over the winter months.

This meat-free mince has an incredibly rich flavour and crowd-pleasing texture. Kids will love it! Serve with all your favourite taco fillings.

Our kids learn far more from our actions on a daily basis than what they do from us telling them what the right thing to do is. Teaching kids about reducing waste is one area where this is especially true. We need to be doing the best we can within our means to reduce waste and having processes and systems set up to support our kids to do the same.

For many of us, going completely plastic-free feels overwhelming and impossible. But particularly when you’re starting out, achieving small changes in habit are the thing you need to stay motivated.

This spiced Quinoa Stuffed Butternut is a complete vegetarian meal that’s perfect to warm up with this Autumn. Butternut Pumpkin is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, most notably vitamin A.