8 Easy Things to Do to Help Save the Planet
There’s no doubt the planet we call home faces serious environmental threats, from climate change to pollution to endangered species. The good news is that every one of us has the ability to make a difference. With each thoughtful change, our collective behavior can add up and have a noticeable impact. If you want to help, start with the following list of simple things to do to shrink your own environmental impact, save resources, and protect nature.
1. Avoid plastics
Plastics are everywhere in our convenience-minded society. Unfortunately, they’re a significant source of pollution—plastic bags, containers, packaging, and the fragments of these items often end up in the ocean, where they can harm fish and marine life. Microplastics are getting more attention because they’re exceedingly difficult to remove from the environment and may harm human health.
To avoid plastics, opt for dinnerware, cutlery, cups, and other kitchen containers made of materials like glass, ceramic, or metal. When possible, buy natural fiber clothing made of cotton, linen, wool, hemp, and bamboo rather than polyester, acrylic, Lycra, and nylon. Buy a reusable water bottle and straw and take them with you when you leave home. Avoid plastic bags when you’re out shopping; opt for reusable cloth bags instead.
2. Compost kitchen waste
About 28% of what ends up in a landfill is organic material. Items like egg shells, garden waste, and vegetable peelings are often thrown in the garbage where they take up space. In landfills, they decompose, releasing methane gas that contributes to global warming. Rather than fill up the city dump with such trash, why not turn it into great compost? Start a compost pile with leaves, yard clippings, and fruit and vegetable scraps. With time and a little attention, it will turn into wonderful soil that’s rich in nutrients and ideal for gardening.
3. Choose renewable energy
Powering your home with green energy is an effective way to shrink your carbon footprint and help reduce the greenhouse gas emissions that are driving climate change. You might install solar panels on your roof, for instance. You can also take steps to make your home more energy-efficient—for example, by weatherproofing your home so it takes less energy to heat and cool it. In some cities, you may have the option to purchase renewable energy from your municipal or commercial energy provider. Check your energy bill or call your provider to ask about this option.
4. Ditch extra packaging
Have you noticed how heavily packaged some products are? All that extra cardboard, paper, and plastic have to go somewhere. Sure, some of it can be recycled, but a good portion typically lands up in the garbage can and ultimately a landfill.
Shop strategically for items with minimal or no wrapping. One idea is to frequent bulk bin stores and take along your own reusable containers. Similarly, pick up what you need at a farmer’s market, where most foods and other items come with less packaging. Finally, check for packaging that’s compostable, recyclable, or reusable.
5. Grow your produce
There’s nothing more satisfying than harvesting your own fruits and veggies—and it can be an environmentally friendly option, too. By growing your own produce, you’re not relying on commercially farmed fruits and veggies that may have been shipped thousands of miles to your local store. In addition, you can grow your own produce with much less pesticides and fertilizers than what’s used in industrial agriculture. If you don’t have space at home for a vegetable patch, see if you have the opportunity to join a community garden where you can grow produce alongside your neighbors.
6. Don’t waste water
Freshwater is precious, especially if you live in an arid region. However, even if you get ample rain, why waste water? To reduce your water consumption at home, start with your yard—the average US household uses about 320 gallons of water a day and about 30% of that total goes to lawns and gardens. In hot, dry climates like the Southwest, outdoor usage can account for 60% of household water consumption.
Consider decreasing the size of your lawn, which is often the biggest outdoor water hog. If possible, install drip irrigation systems to ensure more efficient watering. Water your garden in the early mornings or late afternoons, not in the heat of midday, to reduce water lost to evaporation. Choose plants that are native to your region, which typically require less watering, or drought-tolerant species that thrive in drier conditions. Indoors, you can reduce your family’s water waste by installing low-flow showerheads and faucets and by fixing any leaky pipes or fixtures.
7. Select a cold-water wash
A useful move is to be more energy efficient by washing your clothes in cold water. Washing in hot water consumes more energy because the water needs to be heated; would you believe approximately 90% of the energy goes to the heating process? In addition, hot water can be harder on your clothes over time. Some clothing can be more prone to shrinkage and color bleeding unless washed in cold water. Plus, using cooler water in your washer will save money on your energy bill.
8. Choose eco-friendly cleaning products
The harsh chemicals in many cleaning products are washed down the drain and travel into our waterways, eventually ending up in rivers, streams, lakes, and the ocean, where they can harm animals and plants. To avoid contributing to the problem, you can make your own household cleaning products with gentler ingredients like dish soap, vinegar, and baking soda. DIY-ing these products can be a money-saver, too.
Small steps, big impact
Environmental issues can seem big, scary, and overwhelming. While no one can solve these problems on their own, we can all take relatively easy steps—like the actions listed above—to help. Over time, the impact can really add up.