With climate change rising, it seems as if we are running out of time to reverse the harsh damages that humans have caused on the planet. The following tips are simple changes you can start now that will ultimately help save our Mother earth. Don’t worry, you don’t have to fall off the grid or walk 40 miles to work daily to make a difference.
Meat production is one of the top environmentally destructive industries existing, guilty for using massive amounts of water, destruction of habitats, pollution, greenhouse gas emissions. Most of you have the power to choose what goes on your plate everyday — by reducing your meat consumption you can reduce your environmental footprint. Also, nearly 40 percent of food in the United States goes to waste — wasting all of the natural resources that went into producing it. Don’t let that chicken or cow die in vain! Prevent food waste by planning out your meals and make it crucial to consume what you purchase.
Be water wise. Step away from the bottled water. Brand water companies are basically selling tap water in costly plastic bottles to gain your money, but most city water has won quality tests and taste tests against bottled water. Most importantly the extraction of water and production of all those plastic bottles is notably harmful to wildlife & communities. Water conservation is also critical, especially as our growing population puts increased demand on the nation’s water sources and we face unprecedented droughts. Help to conserve water by taking shorter showers, fixing leaky toilets, and choosing low-flow and low-water appliance options. Since you, the average human, needs to at least four plastic bottles per day, you would be saving 1,460 plastic bottles per year by using a reusable bottle.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle. Doing so will help you reduce your impact,while saving you a little money while you’re at it. If you stop to think about it every product we purchase has an environmental footprint, the materials used to create it as well as the pollution emitted during manufacturing to the packaging that finds itself in landfills. So before you buy, ask yourself if you really need it. If you do, consider buying used instead of new, and go for options with minimal packaging. Avoid fast food as often as possible. Invest in reusable grocery bags vs using single use plastic bags. When going out to eat, opt out on using plastic straws and invest in a reusable metal straw to use daily.
Driving less = Driving green. The transportation sector is responsible for a third of greenhouse gas emissions in the United States, 95 percent of which is made up of climate-altering carbon dioxide. As you know, driving less will help to lesson these statistics. there are many alternatives to getting around such as walking, bike, carpool or use public transportation whenever possible. Make fewer trips by combining errands. Participate in, or promote car-free days in your community. It’s also important to keep your car in good condition by getting regular tune ups & keeping tire inflated. If every American were to keep their tires inflated, gas use nationwide would decrease by 2 percent.
Read the label. Easy as pie, this sustainability habit can be incorporated into your day to day with little effort. Pay attention when buying things such as coffee,clothing, or fruit. With all the options out there,things can get overwhelming — but there are some clear leaders when it comes to minimizing your impact on wildlife and the planet. For coffee lovers, search for “shade-grown” coffee, which is grown while keeping forest habitats intact for migratory birds and other species. Favor Fair Trade certified goods to support companies dedicated to sustainable production and paying laborers a fair wage. Buy organic food if possible; although it may cost a bit more, Just remember that it protects farm workers, wildlife and your family. as well as keeping harmful pesticides out of water and land.
