In this article, we explore five simple but impactful ways that you can make more environmentally-conscious decisions at home. The tips will not only help the environment, but may have a beneficial impact on your own health and wellbeing too.
More people than ever are trying to help the environment. Whether at home or at work, as a business or an individual, the environment is a major concern. As a popular green slogan says, 'There is no Planet B!' — meaning that if we do irreversible damage to our planet, there is no alternative way forward.
Most of us are concerned and want to do our part for the environment, but may also feel a little overwhelmed on where to start. Below, we outline several ways that you can make a difference.
TIP NUMBER 1: Reduce Your Meat Consumption
Studies have shown that reducing our consumption of animal products such as meat and dairy can be one of the most impactful ways to help the environment. Animal agriculture contributes to a lot of environmental damage, toxins and other environmentally harmful issues and practices.
More people than ever before are helping in either small or large ways — such as by going vegan, doing ‘meat-free Mondays’, or simply trying to be more conscious about what they consume.
There are now all sorts of plant-based hacks for new vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Anyone concerned about the health of the planet should be making conscious decisions about what goes on their plate, and there are now resources that make it easier than ever.
Whether at your own pace, through an initiative such as Veganuary, or trying alternatives to meat, get creative and the planet will reap the benefits!
TIP NUMBER 2: Ditch Toxic Cleaning Products
Many household cleaning products are effective because of their powerful ingredients — but they can also be toxic, not least to the environment but also to our bodies.
Products with microbeads — small particles of plastic — are especially harmful. In water supplies or the ocean, they are toxic and destructive for both plant and marine life. Many environmental institutions are campaigning to have them removed from sale altogether.
Regular cleaning is important for eliminating common household ‘nasties’, but products do not need to be harsh to be effective. Harsh chemicals can aggravate respiratory problems such as asthma or skin complaints like eczema and psoriasis. More natural products or those specifically marked as non-toxic, natural and environmentally-friendly can be more beneficial all round.
Many people ditch these products and replace them with natural alternatives immediately — but this can also be a more gradual process! Finish what you have or what is working for you, and then resolve to buy a more natural alternative next time around, for example.
TIP NUMBER 3: Abandon Plastic
This may be another gradual transition, but consider using sustainable, biodegradable and environmentally-friendly materials where possible. Plastic bags are perhaps especially harmful because of the sheer volume of them that go into landfill, and some supermarkets and retailers are no longer using them — or only doing so for a charge.
Consider getting bags and materials that you reuse or that will naturally biodegrade.
TIP NUMBER 4: Recycle & Compost
Globally, food waste is a significant contributor to landfill and environmental harm — but composting is a great way to combat it. Compost is excellent to use on a home garden, and many compost systems are now small and sleek — a stylish addition to your kitchen or garage.
Gone are the days when compost was only for large gardens or outdoor spaces! You can do your bit — however small — in whatever space you have access to.
Recycling is also a highly effective way to help the environment, and many councils and local authorities have specific bins or systems to help. Be sure to check yours to take full advantage, and you will likely be able to recycle a wide variety of items and materials.
TIP NUMBER 5: Switch Things Off
It is easily done, but many of us leave energy or water running when it is completely unnecessary. Be sure to turn off lights and taps (faucets) when not in use, but also be especially aware of electric items such as chargers or unattended sockets.
It can also be environmentally-friendly to wash your laundry at a lower temperature, and to take short showers rather than baths to conserve water.
If you keep conserving energy and resources at the forefront of your mind, you will not only benefit the environment, but also your budget too!
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