“Reduce, reuse, and recycle” is the basis for an eco-friendly life.
With Earth Day celebrated this month on April 22nd our thoughts naturally turn to protecting the earth and its resources. Pollution, single-use plastics, unclean water–all of these are real concerns. But so often, we feel overwhelmed by these issues, and we wonder what we as individuals can do to fight these problems.
The good news is that we can all make small changes that will help our environment. Let’s take a look at 8 simple things you can do to help the Earth and lead a more eco-friendly life.
1. Reduce, reuse, and recycle
This familiar slogan is popular for a reason: it contains the key to helping our environment! All of us should aim to reduce the amount of waste we produce, to find new uses for items that might otherwise be thrown away, and to collect recyclable materials that can be made into new products.
Reusing things like paper bags, glass jars, and aluminum foil can reduce a lot of waste. Finding new uses for a broken chair or stool eliminates waste and can result in a creative DIY project.
Old chairs are repurposed into dog feeders.
2. Plant a rain garden in your yard
A rain garden channels rainwater and improves drainage.
A rain garden is a garden bed that you plant with deep-rooted plants to help water rapidly seep into the soil. By channeling the rainwater and runoff from gutters and higher parts of the yard, you improve drainage and protect your home from water damage. And, you get an attractive flower bed as well.
Searching for a home in Tuscaloosa with room for a flower, vegetable, or rain garden?
3. Conserve water.
Be mindful of running water:
- Turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth or shaving.
- Take shorter showers.
- Fix any leaks as soon as possible.
- run the washing machine and dishwasher when you have a full load.
- Install low-flow toilets and showerheads.
Since total water use in bathrooms accounts for about 50% of home water usage, making some small changes can save a lot of water, lower your water bill, and live a more eco-friendly life.
A low-flow shower head can conserve a good deal of water.
4. Shop wisely.
Cariuma shoes are made of vegan suede and have laces, labels, and mesh lining all made of recycled materials.
Buy products that are made from recycled materials. There are many such products on the market today—everything from shoes to jogging clothes to tote bags and toothbrushes. You can find skateboards made from abandoned fishing nets and yoga mats made from discarded wetsuits.
5. Give composting a try.
We covered this topic in detail in last week’s Composting 101 blog. It’s an easy way to reduce the amount of solid waste you produce that eventually ends up in your local landfill. Plus, it makes great fertilizer.
6. Switch to LED light bulbs.
Almost all light bulbs sold now are LED (light-emitting diodes). There are many varieties, so reading the lighting facts label on the back is important. Pay close attention to the terms “brightness” and “light appearance”. For more information on choosing the right LED bulbs, visit the Family Handyman’s guide to choosing LED bulbs.
7. Plant a tree.
When it comes to removing human-caused emissions of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide from Earth’s atmosphere, trees are a big help. Through photosynthesis, trees pull the gas out of the air to help grow their leaves, branches, and roots.
Trees also give off oxygen and reduce the amount of stormwater runoff, which helps to control erosion. Plus, they can add beauty to almost any spot.
Plant a tree like this colorful ginkgo in your yard.
8. Be car-conscious.
According to EcoWatch, staying off the road two or more days a week would reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an average of 1,590 pounds (721 kilograms) per year. Of course, this may not be feasible for many people. But we can all combine errands and share a ride occasionally. Also, maintaining your car helps the environment and promotes an eco-friendly life. For example, keeping your tires inflated to the proper pressure improves gas mileage.
Celebrate Earth Day every day with these 8 simple things you can do to help the Earth!
Consider observing Earth Day this year by making a few small changes that will help the environment. And sharing these 8 simple things you can do to help the Earth is a great way to recycle!
—- Bottom Line —-
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