It is time to shine a spotlight on one of our favourite change agents in New Zealand, Laura Cope from UYO (Use Your Own) and Takeaway Throwaways! This badass, environmental pro-activist, waste crusader has been making waves around the country with her volunteer-based Use Your Own cup initiative. UYO is a not for profit enterprise that encourages people to steer clear of single-use cups with positive messaging and a nationwide presence. UYO has a very accessible online cafe guide which has various options for finding the right cafe for you.

Forking over our hard-earned cash for new household appliances is something that can quite easily send some of us into a tailspin. Perusing the aisles of Briscoes comparing warranty offers and sniffing out good deals is all part of the routine. We do everything we can to avoid wasting our dollars on an item that may not stand the test of time.

Unfortunately, replacing faulty or worn-out appliances and technology is something we have grown rather used to. The good old days of buying products built to test the tale of time are long over, with “lifetime guarantees” reserved for $450 pairs of boots or rare scores found in the dead of night after hours of scrolling through web forums.