Go donate blood

When looking for ways to do good in the world, it's easy to look past the blood that keeps our bodies going.

Saving lives with just a few hours every year

According to the Red Cross, "one donation can potentially save up to three lives".

Donating blood takes me about 3 hours end to end (thanks to travelling). It's incredible that I can save lives by doing that just once every few months.

While travelling and donating, I often listen to podcasts or audiobooks so the time flies by. I can afford the travel costs and easily give up a few hours each year so it's a no-brainer.

Donating blood is probably one of the highest value activities for doing good in the world

From the perspective of doing good in the world, donating blood is probably one of the highest value activities that we can do. Exchanging a few low-effort hours to save lives. That's some good shit right there.

Check if you can donate

For various reasons, not everyone can donate. UK residents should click here for the NHS's advice on who can give blood.

Check if you are eligible, then find out where your nearest donation clinic is. If you're in the UK, click here to find your nearest centre.

Book your appointment and add more good to the world.

Side note - are you a universal donor?

If your blood type is O Negative, your blood is vitally important because you can donate to anyone (you're a 'universal blood donor').

If your blood type is A Negative, your blood's platlets can be given to anyone (you're a 'universal platlet donor') so consider donating platlets.