Love Trumps Hate, Women's March 2017 Washington DC

Make change, not trash Waste-saving tips for marches and protests

Red backpack with camera, shades and headphones

Pack tactically

When you’ve been on your feet all day, it can be tempting to lighten your load.

Only pack lightweight items, like a thin waterproof jacket, so you can hold onto everything.

Red backpack with camera, shades and headphones
Close-up of woman holding Friends of the Earth Plastic-Free aluminium water bottle

Hydrate the right way

You probably saw this tip coming – pack a reusable water bottle.

Not buying plastic water bottles is one of the easiest ways you can reduce the impact of your protest.

Close-up of woman holding Friends of the Earth Plastic-Free aluminium water bottle
Climate March through London to demand real action on climate change

Take it easy

Heavy placards are often left behind after protests.

Bring a shoulder bag and use it to prop your sign up – that way you won’t get tired of waving it (you’ll thank us for this one).

Climate March through London to demand real action on climate change
Boy with glitter sign

Search for alternatives

Want to take something to the protest, but worried about its environmental impact?

Try searching for eco alternatives online.

Did you know biodegradable glitter exists?

Boy with glitter sign
Cows infiltrate London's morning 'commoote' in 2010 – drawing attention to the link between rainforest destruction in South America and livestock feeds in the UK.

Travel in style

There’s nothing worse than dragging a huge placard home, especially on public transport.

Give your sign a pole that can be collapsed or broken down so you’re not tempted to leave it behind.

Cows infiltrate London's morning 'commoote' in 2010 – drawing attention to the link between rainforest destruction in South America and livestock feeds in the UK.
Fruit tree animation

Snack responsibly

The snacks you pack can make or break a successful protest. No, really!

Take plenty of fruit and products with minimal plastic packaging to reduce your rubbish.

Fruit tree animation
Canvas bags hanging on wooden peg board next to cycle helmet

Bring a bag (yes, another one)

Always carry an extra bag with you to collect up your rubbish.

That way, when you get home you can make sure it’s all properly recycled.

Canvas bags hanging on wooden peg board next to cycle helmet
People marching with litter in the gutter

Give your time

And if you’re really keen to minimise your footprint, contact protest organisers to see if they need help cleaning up.

Someone has to do it, and it’s a rewarding way to take part.

People marching with litter in the gutter