8 Tips For A Greener Lifestyle
There are many ways that you, as an individual, can “go greener” in your daily activities. Besides changing your diet to include more greens, you should adopt some new habits that make you more eco-friendly. This means leaving the least possible carbon footprint on earth through a number of things including:
- Recycling
This is an easy way for you to reduce your impact on the environment while promoting your sustainability. Recycling includes many things such as separating your waste and using professional junk removal companies to dispose it appropriately, composing your food wastes, or collecting your metal or plastic cans for recycling.
- Reducing your paper consumption
You can start by removing your name from mailing lists or simply stating that you prefer to receive flyers via email. Additionally, you can choose paperless billing from your phone, cable service providers.
- Saving energy
The biggest cause of energy loss in the home in winter and summer is leaks. So, fill any air leaks in your home by weather-stripping your doors and windows. Also, consider installing ceiling fans and programmable thermostats, replacing your light bulbs with energy efficient bulbs, using energy efficient appliances, and turning down / switching off the lights/appliances when not in use.
- Saving water
Consider installing aerators on shower heads and taps; taking shorter showers; turning off the water when not in use (like when brushing your teeth); and avoid over-watering the lawn.
- Keeping the air clean
Reduce your car use whenever possible by carpooling, riding a bike, taking public transit, or walking. When driving, reduce idling and maintain the right tire pressure.
- Watch your purchase
Be aware of anything you purchase and avoid buying chemical-laden cleaners, detergents, bleachess, disinfectants since they pollute the air, water, and soil. Also, buy only what you need and rent or borrow the rest; buy used items; try to reuse or repurpose things at home instead of buying new items; use reusable water bottles; use your own grocery bags when shopping; opt for reusable items over disposable products such as baby wipes, paper towels, etc.
- Re-use and donate
Never discard anything before thinking about ways it can be reused. For instance, you can donate clothes to charities, books and magazines to hospitals, and reuse food containers.
- Grow organic and buy local
Grow some simple crops and fruits in your garden; start a community garden; or buy your food at the local farmers’ market.
Lastly, get your kids involved in your green endeavours so they can become lifelong environmental stewards.