Trying to go green but don’t know exactly where to start? You’ve come to the right place.
Preserving a healthy environment is a priority – and not just for the sake of our generation, but also for all the generations to come. As individuals, we might not have the power to change the entire world ourselves, but we can still act and make a difference.
There are a variety of easy steps we can all take to reduce our impact on the environment. Yes, they may seem small. But when small things add up, they can play a significant role in maintaining the balance and integrity of our natural world.
Let’s jump in.
Here are some easy-to-implement ideas to make your daily routine a little greener.
When it comes to going green, this idea should come as no surprise. Regularly composting and recycling can drastically reduce the amount of waste a household produces.
Keep in mind that compost bins can turn your organic waste into nutritious soil for your yard and garden, or for your city’s soil. Also, recycling bins prevent materials like plastic, aluminum, and other materials from piling up in landfills.
The costs involved in using recycling pickup services and recycling centers vary. But these fees are a small investment relative to how much value you’ll contribute by reducing household waste.
Another benefit to composting and recycling? You’ll become more aware of how much waste you’re producing, which can help motivate you to reduce it. But how?
This leads to the second point.
Another great way to go green is to shop for more efficient, reusable, or biodegradable versions of everyday products. This can include things like cloth napkins, energy-efficient lighting, eco-friendly beauty products, and many other common items. Buying in bulk and bringing shopping bags from home can also reduce waste.
Also, try to avoid buying things that come wrapped in a lot of plastic, and buy locally whenever possible. For example, if your city has open-air markets, this can be a great place to buy the freshest produce available while supporting local businesses. It’s a win-win.
There’s nothing wrong with having places to go and people to see. We all do! But taking a gas-guzzling car everywhere can take a toll on the environment – and your wallet.
Fortunately, there are plenty of options that can reduce your carbon footprint and take you where you need to be without costing a fortune.
For example, biking, riding a scooter, or simply walking are great alternatives to driving and also happen to be health-conscious ways to go green. You could also look into carpooling options near you on forums or with ride-sharing apps.
If appropriate and available, you could also take public transportation.
Ultimately, if you’re used to taking your car everywhere, start small. For example, you could take a bike to run errands instead of your car one day per week or arrange to carpool with a friend for longer distances.
It might sound cliché, but small things really do add up and make a difference in the long run.
This is a super easy way to reduce plastic waste and go green. Yes, plastic water bottles might be convenient, but they’re terrible for the environment. Think about it – they typically get used just once before being thrown away.
The solution? Buy a few cute reusable water bottles! You’ll have an excellent thirst-quenching drink anytime you like while avoiding the pileup of single-use bottles. Though there are plenty of options on the market, consider getting a BPA-free glass water bottle since glass is recyclable.
Essentially, this one is all about getting the most out of everything you use. Remember that items you don’t want or need anymore, like old clothing, scuffed cooking utensils, and other lightly worn things can go a lot further by being donated than by being thrown away.
Also, when you need something specific for a short while, like a dress for a special occasion, try a borrowing site like Rent the Runway or Bag, Borrow or Steal instead of buying. You could also try sharing your own household tools and equipment with your community. It’s a fantastic way to help others and conserve resources.
Psst! Want to go green by using cleaner, more eco-friendly beauty products? Take the first step by transitioning your soap!