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Going green can help to save the planet and save you money. Whilst it can require some discipline, the improved sense of mental wellbeing makes it worth it. Nowadays, going green is easier than ever before. Here are just a few changes to your lifestyle that can have a great positive impact on the environment.
Recycle
If you don’t already recycle, this could be one easy way to reduce your carbon footprint. Most neighbourhoods are now enforcing recycling – particularly when it comes to plastic and cardboard. You can also recycle your food and garden waste, using it as compost. On top of this, you may be able to sell old electronics for parts and repurpose old furniture for other means. Even selling and donating clothes is technically a form of recycling – rather than getting rid of it, you’re putting it to another use and reducing your waste.
Eat more organic and locally-sourced food
Food that is produced locally and unprocessed is better for the environment – this is because such food doesn’t have to be shipped or flown over and there are no chemicals pumped into it that can have harmful effects on the ecosystem (for example, chemical pesticides used on crops are thought to be a leading cause in the reduced number of bees). Shop in local organic stores to find this produce. You can even grow some of your own foods to use in meals – you can then guarantee that these foods are environmentally-friendly. Â
Drive less often
Everyone knows that pollution from cars and fuel consumption is having a major negative impact on the environment. By driving less often, you can help to lower your carbon footprint. Walking or cycling instead of driving can also save you money and improve your physical health.
Reduce your energy consumption
You can also become greener by using less energy around your home. This could involve turning the heating on less, unplugging electric appliances that aren’t in use and taking showers instead of bath. You can even take things one step further by switching to off-grid sustainable energy solutions. This could include collecting rainwater for garden use in tanks such as these Clark Tanks, or installing solar panels to generate your own electricity. Measures such as insulation meanwhile can encourage you to use the heating less.
Use less plastics
The oceans and landfill sites are getting filled with plastics. Much of this plastic will take thousands of years to degrade and it is already causing damage to wildlife. You can choose to use products that only use eco-friendly packaging such as cardboard as well as relying on goods made from natural materials such as wood, cotton and leather. Sites like Life Without Plastic have a great selection of natural material goods that could be worth perusing through.
Feature Image : Photo by Farsai Chaikulngamdee on Unsplash
