The idea of committing to an eco-friendly lifestyle can be daunting. There is so much work that needs to be done to undo the damage imparted to our planet. And at the same time, so much of that work is out of our hands—at least when it comes to what we can do in our day-to-day lives.
All that being said, there are numerous small changes we can each make to start living a more eco-friendly lifestyle and help the planet in any way that we can. Even adopting half of the items on this list into your daily routine can make the world a better place.
Living Green At Home
Reduce Food Waste
Did you know almost half of our food is wasted in the U.S.? Not only does this put unnecessary strain on your wallet, but an unnecessary strain on the environment. To combat this, start a compost bin in your kitchen or backyard. You can use the soil in your garden and even grow your vegetables!
In the city, look into your area’s urban composting options or find creative ways to reduce waste—like using excess vegetables to make broth!
Skip Paper and Plastic
Paper and plastic can be easily removed in most of your house. So whether it’s swapping paper towels for dish rags, cloth napkins for paper, ceramic dishes for paper plates, and dryer balls for dryer sheets—you can take this easy opportunity to make a big difference.
Eco-friendly products
From microplastics to harsh chemicals, what we use to clean our houses and take care of ourselves not only has a profound impact on our health but the health of Mother Earth.
Invest in eco-friendly cleaning products for your home, and opt for planet-safe, sustainable beauty, body, and hair-care products. The planet, and your hair and skin, will be thanking you.
Save Water (And Energy)
Water waste is a big issue—but hot water also wastes energy. Cut your showers short, be diligent about using your washing machine and dishwasher, and be crafty where you can. Have to wait a long time for your shower to get warm? Catch the water in a bowl and use it to water your houseplants. The same goes for water waste from boiling pasta or veggies. Instead of pouring it down the drain, feed it to your flowers!
Living Green In The World
Cut Down Car Use
Car exhaust releases carbon monoxide into the air and is one of the leading causes of global warming. Skip traveling by car when you can. If you’re going somewhere close by, walk. Take public transportation to work. When it’s nice out, ride your bike to your various weekend activities.
Re-usable...well...everything!
There is next-to-no need for single-use plastic now that there are so many eco-friendly options. From re-usable tote bags, produce bags, and water bottles to metal straws, bamboo cutlery, and glass to-go containers—you’ll never have to opt for wasteful plastic again.
Buy Local (And Shop Small)
Buying local, in-season fruits, veggies, and goods at a farmer’s market or produce stand is a fun, easy way to help the planet. Most local farmers don’t use harsh pesticides and chemicals, and eating crops that are in season saves your produce from having to travel long distances to get to your table.
Big corporations are primarily responsible for climate change. However, it can also benefit your community and protect the planet from shopping at small businesses, buying from local artisans, or purchase necessities second-hand.
Clean-Up Where You Can
Last but not least, clean up and make the world more beautiful where you can. Not only should you carry out your waste when you’re out and about—but if you see trash or something that can be recycled in the park or on the sidewalks, pick it up.
You might even consider organizing a family beach-clean-up to help our oceans at the end of the summer. It’s a small task—but if we all work together, we can make a significant impact.