Sheherazade Goldsmith

“Over the years, the diamond industry has had a devastating impact in countries such as Sierra Leone, Angola and the Congo, where profits from the sale of diamonds have been used to fund brutal wars, with disastrous effects on local communities.”

“Coral reefs represent some of the world's most spectacular beauty spots, but they are also the foundation of marine life: without them many of the sea's most exquisite species will not survive.”

“With approximately 75 per cent of our rubbish generated by packaging, a few simple steps - buying loose fruit and veg, choosing products with recyclable packaging, and avoiding individually wrapped portions - can have a big impact.”

“If you are energy-efficient and water-wise at home, then take all your good habits abroad with you.”

“Farmers' markets are one of my favourite sources for Christmas goodies.”

“Conservation is key to preserving many of the world's natural beauty spots, so do your best to help by keeping to designated footpaths and being a discerning souvenir collector.”

“Consuming less is the fastest way to eco-fashion redemption - particularly if your preference is for leather, not hemp.”

“Doing the eco-accessory thing doesn't have to mean giving up designer labels. In fact, quite the opposite.”

“There are a lot of irritating aspects about large supermarkets for the wannabe eco-warrior, but the one that gets most of us hottest under the collar is packaging.”

“I'm a mother, and my life is very full.”

“It is possible to do many household cleaning tasks by simply using ingredients from the store cupboard, which are also safer for the environment.”

“Reducing and reusing take nothing more than a rethink on the way we shop, and using our imagination with the things that we might once have considered junk.”

“My vegetable patch is my pride and joy.”

“If you really want to help make a difference while getting a true travel experience, consider a community-run trip.”

“Little children love bright, shiny things - and in my experience, most grown-up women aren't very different!”

“The citric acid in lemon juice makes it perfect for bleaching, disinfecting and cutting through grease. And olive oil is a great alternative to furniture polish.”

“Open shelving may be fashionable, but a closed cabinet door is the best way to stop grease and dust collecting in the first place.”

“Pets inspire many different types of behaviour in their owners, mostly ranging from adoration to ridiculous obsessiveness, in my experience.”

“I want to know where my food comes from and the conditions in which it's grown. I also want to embrace traditional British produce, and seasonality.”

“For many of us, Christmas lunch is the most special meal of the year - and I certainly want nothing but the very best for this celebration.”