Could renting help UK go green?

Consumers should consider renting their belongings, rather than buying them, in order to help the country meet its carbon reduction targets by 2020, it has been claimed.

The proposals from the Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP) have stated that designer clothes, DIY tools and entertainment technology are all items which could be rented rather than bought outright by Britons.

Such steps may also see consumers saving money which could be put towards their gas and electricity bills.

Should the UK become a hire society?

By renting electrical equipment, such as DIY tools, games consoles and household appliances, only when they are required, could see Britons able to lower their electricity bills along with saving the money they would have spent on buying the same items.

And WRAP asserts that by renting such products, people may also be able to choose from higher quality models, rather than going for a budget option.

Furthermore, fashion-fans may find that they can more realistically afford to step out in the latest designer garments if they are hiring outfits and for women who believe in only wearing a dress once, this could be useful.

Liz Goodwin, chief executive of WRAP, said: "This is the first piece of research which shows the significant impact that UK resource efficiency could have on the environment and the economy," the Telegraph reports.

"Until now, making best use of our natural resources has not been high enough on the agenda as one of the contributors to meeting climate change targets," she added.

Going green to save money

While renting products could put the UK one step closer to its carbon reduction targets, homeowners may also fund that they can do their own bit by increasing their home energy efficiency.

By turning down their central heating, fitting insulation, switching off electrical appliances when not in use and ensuring radiators have been properly bled, Britons could find that they are reducing their harmful impact on the environment.

And such steps could have the added benefit of resulting in reduced annual gas and electricity bills, which may mean that going green not only helps the environment, but also people's wallets and purses.

By taking such action, should WRAP's proposals come into force, consumers may be able to ensure that their wardrobes and homes are always stocked with high-end hired items.