We all like to do nice things in our free time; but it’s important now more than ever, that we are mindful of the environmental impact of those activities. There are so many ways that businesses can help the planet, so try to support the companies that are trying their best to do this while still providing an excellent service.
Take Afternoon Tea in a 5-Star Green Tourism Hotel
The Blythswood Square Hotel in Glasgow is a Green Tourism hotel. This means that the hotel’s impact on our planet is measured and monitored. The renovation of this old building into the luxury palace with historic features that it is now, was done with the latest green building eco innovations. Advanced technology was implemented which reduces the carbon emissions of the hotel by over 43% compared to similar buildings.
They have had a renewable energy supply, a rain water harvesting system and environmental appliances that reduce their energy consumption. They’ve even had a beehive on the roof, to make their own honey! The hotel serves a beautiful afternoon tea in the hotel’s Salon, that includes a delicious selection of sandwiches, fresh scones and dainty cakes. We all like to eat out, but here you can do it somewhere committed to helping our planet.
So many more hotels and restaurants could make changes to the way they operate to make them kinder to the environment – from installing more energy-efficient LED lighting, to looking at where they get their food produce from. 
Picnic in the Park Downton Abbey-style
Experience some of Glasgow’s history as well as enjoying the great outdoors. Pollok Country Park is a vast area full of woodlands, rural areas with Highland Cows and pretty walled gardens. It was once part of the Old Pollok Estate and was the ancestral home of the Maxwell family. After enjoying a picnic on the grass, visit the world famous art gallery The Burrell Collection or the historic Pollok House; both situated in the park. Plus, if you join the National Trust for Scotland while you are there, you’ll be helping to preserve its legacy.
Shop Stylishly but Responsibly
For a unique shopping experience, you need to head to Glasgow’s various vintage and craft markets. They are the perfect place to spend a Sunday afternoon. There are stalls selling vintage clothing and accessories, plus crafts such as candles made with upcycled teacups. I’ve even seen a company who make cakes out of produce that supermarkets won’t/can’t sell because it’s bashed or past the ‘best before’ date.
You can see more of what I’m loving, and what I’m doing, over on my Instagram.
