Golf is a somewhat contentious subject with environmentalists. With the copious amounts of water required to maintain the greens and the seemingly limitless amounts of fertilizers and chemicals required to keep them in tip-top condition, it’s not surprising that most don’t look at golf as a very eco-friendly enterprise.

There is some good news though for would be eco-friendly golfers, and that is that some golf courses are trying to improve their green credentials by minimising pesticide use and encouraging wildlife onto the greens.

Here are 3 ways that you can green your game of golf, regardless of where you play:

1. Buy recycled golf balls.

2. Use biodegradable tees.

3. Walk instead of using a golf cart.

The weather is hotting up and it’s time to go out and commune with nature. Picnics are a fun way to spend time outdoors, but it’s not very kind to nature to use disposable picnic plates, cups and cutlery. With this biodegradable picnic ware set you can be eco-friendly without having to take home sticky plastic crockery to wash.

It’s also the perfect solution for festivals and camping. The set comprises plates, bowls and cups, plus wooden spoons, forks and knives and a camouflage or gingham cloth, and is made from 100% biodegradable cassava.

Feminine products end up as landfill waste, waterway pollution and can cause damage to wildlife. And then there’s the pollution that we’re taking into our bodies by using tampons and pads loaded with chemicals that are used in their production. It’s time to take back our bodies and insist on products that don’t harm us or our environment. Here are some of the more natural and less damaging products available.

Natracare natural pads and certified organic 100% cotton tampons are made from totally chlorine-free, natural cellulose materials derived from ecologically managed forests and are over 95% biodegradable and compostable. Instead of lingering in the environment, Natracare products will compost and biodegrade naturally. As well as their range of pads and tampons, Natracare also make incontinence products, maternity products and baby toiletries.

The Mooncup doesn’t contain any bleaches, deodorisers or absorbency gels and hasn’t been associated with toxic shock syndrome, making it a great alternative to tampons and perfect for women with sensitive skin, thrush, eczema or allergy. It reduces waste dramatically and is manufactured from a special medical grade non-allergic silicone derived from silica which is one of the most abundant minerals on earth. The Mooncup is manufactured in the UK.

Because 30% of our carbon footprint comes from the food we eat, We Dig for Victory are encouraging us to harness the spirit of the Second World War home-front food growers and to work together to grow food in our gardens, in allotments and any other available space. This time we are digging for victory against climate change and peak oil.

Growing our own food and eating locally produced seasonal food increases our well-being and a sense of connectedness to our local food chain. We are also actively boosting the local economy, creating greater food security, reducing food miles and packaging and making a positive move towards a more sustainable system of agriculture.

You can be a digger too, here’s how:

1. Grow some of your food at home or at an allotment - however modest.

2. Eat locally and seasonally where you can and reduce food miles.

3. Buy from small, local shops where you can and support your local economy

(www.wedigforvictory.co.uk)

The BlogGreen guide to a greener month ahead.

Buy it…

It’s World Fair Trade Day on the 12th of May. Whatever you buy on World Fair Trade Day, help marginalised or small-scale producers by making sure it’s Fair Trade. There’s a huge choice of fairly traded goods available these days. Look out for the Fair Trade symbol.

Do it…

Spring into Action is an initiative by the British Trust for Conservation Volunteers to get everyone involved in working for the natural environment this Spring. There’ll will be something to interest you from flowers to frogs, bats to beech trees, school grounds to breathtaking mountain paths, there are many animals, plants and habitats across the UK that need your help, care and protection. Nearly all activities are free, no previous experience is needed, and in exchange for your help you’ll have lots of fun, fresh air and a real sense of fulfillment. For more information see the BTCV website (www.btcv.org.uk)

Hear it…

Dawn Chorus Day is the annual celebration of the world’s oldest wake-up call. On the 4th May, set your alarm clock for 4am and listed to the dawn chorus from your bedroom window, or outside with a cup of Fairtrade coffee if you prefer. Or join one of the Dawn Chorus Day events (see www.wildlifetrusts.org for more info).

Visit it…

The Green Show is a new show in London aimed at the conscious consumer. From an ethical fashion show to the eco home zone, you’ll find lots of innovative new products to incorporate into a greener lifestyle. Neither beard nor hair-shirt required! The show runs from 31st May - 1st June at London Olypmia II. (www.the-green-show.com)