5 Ways to Help the Environment Every Day with Minimal Effort

Taking care of the environment is the responsibility that every person on this planet should do what they can to participate in. Nonetheless, many people do not give a second thought to the environment while others think that they have to make an enormous effort to make a difference. The fact is, however, that if you get into a few good habits to make the world a better place for everyone, you will also be able to experience benefits closer to home such as lowering your utility and transport bills. Here are five habits you can get into to help the environment with minimal effort.

1) Turn Things Off

Are you in the habit of leaving many of your home appliances on standby? Do you leave the lights on when you go out of the room? Ask yourself why you do this. For many people, it is just habit rather than laziness, but it is one that costs you money and adds to an overall negative influence on your wider surroundings. Get into the habit of turning lights off when you leave the room, shutting down your computer when you've finished using it and decreasing the use of air conditioning and heating to a minimal level and you will also be financially rewarded.

2) Recycle and Reuse

In some parts of the world, such as the UK, recycling is now mandatory to an extent. In other places, it is entirely optional. Regardless, however, it doesn't take much effort to throw paper or plastic waste in the appropriate recycling bins where they are available. Getting into the habit of reusing certain items will also help the environment while in some cases saving you money in the process. There's no need to go over the top, but a moment of thought before throwing something away can make a world of difference.

3) Cut Down on Transport

Transport costs are going up all around the world and, for many, things like running a car and commuting to work can make your outgoings skyrocket. Cut down on transport costs by looking for alternative methods. Consolidate your trips so that you can get more done in one hit rather than doing multiple journeys and spending twice as much or more on fuel. You may also find that public transport is cheaper than driving yourself.

4) Eat Healthier

Healthy eating is not only better for your own health; it is usually better for the environment as well. It can cost more money to eat healthier if you only stick to supermarkets, although shopping at places like farmers' markets and buying local produce can actually save you money. Try to stick to fruits and vegetables that are in season and, if possible, grow some of your own. It is better for the environment, and usually your wallet too. For example, buy locally produced tomatoes rather than ones which have been shipped in from the other side of the world.

5) Use Fewer Appliances

Get into the habit of using fewer appliances as doing so will also help you to decrease your utility bills. Some useful tips include doing the laundry only when you have a full load to wash, defrosting food in the open rather than in the microwave and drying clothes naturally rather than in a dryer. Think for a moment before using an electrical appliance – you may well be using more than you need to.