Given the recent effect of climate change that the world is experiencing, we should all be playing our part in saving the planet. Leading an environmentally friendly lifestyle is no longer as difficult as it used to be. Here are some tips to help you get started on doing your best to help the planet.
Contents
Zero Energy Water
Did you know that the water from your faucets wastes a lot of energy (probably by burning fossil fuels) to reach your home? In addition to your efforts to conserve water (which we should all do), you can use water that requires zero energy to reach your home – rainwater. Simply install rainwater barrels and the best rainwater diverter you can find to ensure that the water collects in the barrels and doesn’t make it to your basement. Although this water is not potable, the majority of your water consumption does not need to be – so you can use this water for a variety of applications so long as you don’t drink it.
Reusable Everything
It is surprising how much waste we accumulate in our daily lives from disposable single-use items. Even if your disposables are made of recyclable material, you cannot guarantee that they will be recycled. The best option is to switch to reusable alternatives whenever you can. This can include using cloth mesh bags for produce shopping, reusable bags for your groceries, silicon covers instead of plastic wrap, and reusable bottles or cutlery. You can buy zero-waste kits that can help you be prepared for dining out, which can help you avoid accumulating trash in restaurants.
Buy Zero Waste Products
In addition to using reusable products you need to think of the packaging that most of the items you use come in. Luckily, there are now a wide range of stores and products that are dedicated to providing zero waste. This means that soap comes without a wrapper, and most products are sold by weight. All you need to do is bring your own containers. Some stores will give you the option of buying containers from them, that you can then return in exchange for the money you paid. Of course, the latter option is inherently convenient, but either way, you’re reducing the amount of waste you accumulate.
Use Biodegradable Cleaning Products
The vast majority of cleaning products that line store shelves are bad for the environment. Many of them can be replaced with old school cleaning methods such as using soda and vinegar. Both are biodegradable, better for the environment, and not harmful to your health. Some people go as far as making their own soaps and detergents, but you can manage by purchasing products from a zero waste store that are advertised as biodegradable. You’ll find that there is absolutely no reason for that industrial strength cleaner you were using regularly, harming the environment in the process.
Leading an environmentally friendly lifestyle is not so complicated. By implementing a few small changes in your daily habits, you can make a positive impact on the environment.