Materials
If choosing stone, make sure stone is sourced from quarries that have been inspected and approved.
Look to see whether existing materials can be re-used.
If you don't want to use old material, ask around if there is anyone who would like to get some.
Make sure all timber come with a Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certificate.
Try to buy charcoal for barbecues from a sustainable source that help restore woodland.
Instead of concrete blocks, use earth-rammed walls where excavations of sub-soil can be used to build free-standing or covered structures.
Water
Instal an irrigation system.
Collect rainwater.
Use plants that have a measure of drought tolerance such as herbs or prairie.
Bare soil mulched with well-rotted compost or wood chippings will prevent water loss.
Water in the cool of the early morning or evening to reduce evaporation losses.
Introduce decking, gravel, paving and cobbles features as an alternative to water guzzling lawns.
Use mulches such as wood chips, bark and gravel to help prevent water evaporation.
Recycle
Have a compost heap at home or make sure your waste is recycled by either the council or a friend.
Use green manures to feed the soil.
Earth which has been dug out can be recycled to form an 'eco mound' to house a garden building.

Green Garden Checklist

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