They've been talking about saving the earth and helping the environment since the pressure group was launched way back in 1971, long before the likes of Brangelina and Al Gore got involved in the green scene.

But rather than blow their own trumpet, they simply get on with the task of trying to make the world a better place and have come up with a brilliant mini-guide that will not only help you to help the planet, but will give you the opportunity to save cash too.

The free guide, titled Save Cash & Save the Planet, is available through the web site www.foe.co.uk (where you'll also find lots of online hints and tips).

It's aimed at those people who worry that saving the environment means having to make huge sacrifices and overhaul their lifestyles. That's simply not the case - all it takes is some small steps, and you'll be well on your way to becoming an eco warrior.

The booklet recommends only boiling the amount of water you need when making a cup of tea and turning lights out when you leave a room. I'm guilty of both these transgressions!

I often automatically fill the kettle when all I really want is a small cup of boiling water and I always leave lights on throughout the house! I'm not as bad as I used to be though, and this guide book has certainly shamed me into trying even harder to save electricity.

Friends of the Earth is now an international concern, but, all over the world, it maintains its local roots. From its website you can click onto the Northern Ireland page (www.foe.co.uk/northern_ireland ) to find out what's happening in our area. There's info on past and present campaigns, reports on rural development and discussion on supporting a Climate Change Bill for Northern Ireland.

There are six campaigning FoE groups in Northern Ireland, stretching right across the province, from Fermanagh to Ards, each one focusing on local issues. For example, the Killinchy group campaigns about pollution in Strangford Lough, while the Craigavon group has raised awareness about pollution from local factories. So get involved!

But back to those helpful tips.

• Instead of spending a fortune on kitchen roll, start using old cotton clothes to wipe down surfaces (or even cut up old cotton nighties and T-shirts and use the rags to clean windows and floors).

• Make use of your local library instead of buying books and visit the DVD library more often too, instead of forking out on the latest blockbuster.

• The guide also recommends cycling or walking to work once a week, instead of using the car. Not every day, you note, just once a week.

It's small steps like this that can make all the difference to your lifestyle, your health and the planet.