The Auto Trader Sustainability Network is made up of different people from across the business. Each of them is on a different sustainability journey of their own, and this series of articles gives you the chance to hear their unique story. Meet Daniel Mcnamee.
When did you first become aware of the need to be more sustainable?
I remember when our local council first issued my parents with recycling bins, and while I was young, even then, it made complete sense not just to throw things away. My Dad would also keep anything and everything in his garage, assuring me it was better than throwing it away and it would come in useful at some point. Why would you produce or buy something new when you’ve probably already got something that will do the job!? However, it wasn’t until I was in my mid-twenties that, other than recycling, I consciously started making sustainable choices around food and the types of products I used/avoided.
What interests you about sustainability?
With a little effort, it’s relatively easy to make even small sustainable choices, and if everyone makes small changes, it can add up to significant changes! People power!
What was one of the first changes you made on your journey to be more sustainable?
Aside from the obvious like recycling, shopping more locally for fruit and veg – I probably didn’t understand it fully at the time, but the local market sells fruit and veg that comes mainly from the local area, they don’t use as much plastic, and it allows me to shop seasonally.
What change has been the easiest?
Swapping personal hygiene products and cleaning products for more eco-friendly ones, which for the most part are just as effective.
What change has been the hardest?
Completely cutting out meat and dairy from my diet. I love food and cooking, and while I’ve made significant reductions, at the moment, I can’t see myself cutting it out entirely, so my focus is around ensuring the meat is local where possible and ethically sourced.
What future changes would you like to make /are working towards?
I’m still trying to bring down my single-use plastic use, and I’d like to get to a point where I don’t use any, but it’s going to take time, and I’ve still got work to do.
Can you recommend some simple changes that others can make?
Swap your washing detergent and dishwasher tablets for eco-friendly alternatives; it’s convenient, cost-effective, and just as good. It’s a no brainer.
Can you recommend any resources to help people understand their impact / start their sustainability journey?
No specific resources, but I think it’s worth sitting down and thinking about your lifestyle, where you’d like to get to with sustainability and the small changes you can start with – everyone can start somewhere!