Climate change is a big challenge facing society. It is caused by a build-up of heat-trapping gasses in the atmosphere, which causes global warming. We can calculate an individual's contribution to global warming with a "carbon footprint". This is a measure in tonnes of the most abundant heat-trapping gas called carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere due to our activities over a year.

According to SEALI (Sustainable Energy Authority of Ireland), the residential sector is the second most significant contributor to Ireland's carbon footprint. Common factors include fuel for heating, lights and waste. A typical Irish family home has a carbon footprint of about 11 tonnes, which is one of the highest in Europe. Our EU neighbours emit about 25% less in their homes to put this in context. These figures are just for running the home and doesn't include the overall carbon footprint such as travel. It's estimated that having a child increases the family’s overall carbon footprint by about 58 tonnes per year. While that may sound high, don't worry! There are many things we can all do to reduce this.

While we can't control what happens globally, we can make small changes to reduce our carbon footprints in our own homes. We can make a real difference for us, our children and future generations. Making greener choices also means that your child will be more likely to follow in your footsteps and carry on sustainable habits.Here at Kaliedy, we understand that 'going green' could be a little daunting or confusing to know where to start. That's why we have put together these eco-friendly suggestions for you.

Change often starts small, so you may like to dip your toe with one or two of these and go from there. If you're already doing one or more of these, great job! See if there are any other areas you can make a difference.

Selecting products made from recycled materials is a great way of saving them from a landfill or drifting around in our oceans.

Here are some of our favourite "rubbish" products.

The Top' n' Tail changing bag is eco-conscious, made from recycled plastic bottles, and offers amazing storage for all those changing and travel necessities. As of 2022, Babymel say they have recycled over 285,000 bottles! We think that deserves applause.

All outer fabrics of these super cute backpacks are made from 100% recycled PET* bottles. Amazingly approx. 8 bottles are repurposed to make a backpack. Suitable for ages 1-3 years, the rucksack has a secondary function as a fully tested and approved safety harness for peace of mind.

These gorgeous fluffy soft toys are sustainably made using recycled materials and touches of natural cotton. Suitable from birth, these cuddly toys offer two gifts for baby, which is really special. Each toy repurposes 12 whole recycled bottles and offers warm snuggles!