The environment has become more prominent in the news, and it’s not just political issues that are making headlines. Climate change is an ongoing issue that many people don’t know how to respond to. That’s why we need to go green! Here, are some ways you can save the planet.
How to go green
- Give up your incandescent light bulbs. Avoid these energy-sucking light bulbs altogether. These bulbs give off a ton of heat that can heat your home in winter and cool it in summer. The incandescent bulbs are also capable of causing a fire. If you have any concerns, consider buying energy-efficient light bulbs or using CFLs.
- Recycle, reuse, and compost. Recycling can help improve the environment. However, it can be difficult to know how to recycle right. There are many places that accept recycling, so use your Google to find a place near you. If you have less space to store items, you may want to give up a few of your large items, such as furniture. When you get rid of those items, you can give them to friends, family, and charities.
Eco-friendly shopping tips
- Subscribe to online circulars. With all the time we spend on computers, it’s easier to pay bills, clip coupons, and stay on top of sales. Those shopping coupons and circulars are designed to make your shopping a bit easier and more cost effective. Sign up for them and you’ll be happy you did. 2. Make reusable shopping bags a part of your wardrobe. Consider going reusable! You can buy canvas bags from any department store. If you prefer to go the green route, try to find a chic reusable bag for everyday use. They cost much less than store-bought bags, and in the long-term, you’ll reduce your carbon footprint. 3. Buy secondhand clothing.
Eco-friendly beauty tips
- Wake up early Every morning, before you leave your apartment, take a moment to check your energy usage. By doing this, you will see where you are wasting energy and what you can do about it. For example, many apartments use lights in the middle of the night to cut down on power. Before you hit the sack, check to make sure that your lights are off and your thermostat set properly. If you have a balcony or outdoor space, you can invest in solar-powered lawn ornaments. Some people, especially those who live in cold climates, find that they need to install special weatherproof solar garden lights. By making a donation, you will be helping the environment and spreading joy at the same time. 2. Renewable energy If you live in a city, you can choose to live with solar energy.
How to grow your own foodAccording to the Natural Resources Defense Council, there are over 7,500 acres of vacant farmlands in the U.S. alone. That land could be reclaimed for urban farming, and what better way to get started than growing your own food? You don’t have to have a lot of space to grow your own food, and you can do so on a smaller scale if you live in a city. Urban Farming is about taking the least amount of resources to grow healthy food, not about feeling like you are cheating. It’s also a great way to meet new people. Take some classes, or meet people in the community to figure out how to make gardening work in your own backyard.
Start a small gardenBecoming a gardener is an easy way to make a difference in the world. There are countless benefits to growing your own food, including reduced waste, less environmental damage, and keeping plants from taking up space in landfills. Organic food Organic food is much healthier for you than non-organic foods. This means that you will be consuming fresher foods with fewer chemicals. Get outdoors Exposure to nature has been proven to reduce stress and improve overall health. Try to spend as much time as possible outdoors and enjoy the peace and serenity that nature provides. Store-bought items Avoid store-bought products wherever possible. Many items in your everyday kitchen are produced using harmful chemicals. Instead, make your own products at home.
Grow your own herbs and vegetablesThis has always been a huge environmental tip, but it’s especially relevant now because of the country’s heated political climate. Greenhouse gas emissions have risen by 3% in the last year, making greenhouse gases the fourth largest contributor to the atmosphere. Greenhouse gas emissions are estimated to be a much greater contributor than greenhouse gas emissions from automobiles and airplanes. If you can’t grow your own, there are many ways to buy organic produce that won’t cause an impact. Not only is it good for the environment, but it also tastes good. If you buy local and from a certified sustainable farm, you won’t see GMOs or pesticides on the produce. Shop sustainably If you’re buying clothing, you can choose more organic or sustainable items.
Composting and recyclingWhen you put food scraps in the garbage, they don’t go away! They are essentially feeding the garbage truck that drives right by your house everyday. Instead, when you throw your food scraps in the garbage, make sure they’re put in the right bin. If you are unsure, check your city’s website. You can also compost at home, which is much better for your compost pile than leaving it outside in the yard. Composting is one of the easiest ways to save the planet. Low energy consumption If you do a lot of home maintenance or repairs around your house, you can make your home energy efficient. Switch out your light bulbs for energy saving bulbs, and make sure you’re using energy efficient appliances. It’s surprising how small changes can help reduce energy consumption.