By now, most people are aware of the damage that the use of fossil fuels and other unrenewable resources is doing to our environment. It can degrade the land, pollute our water and air and contribute to the global warming crisis. While this has long been known, over the last decade or so, we have begun to see people take it more seriously.
More and more people are turning to a green lifestyle and are doing all they can to protect their environment. But with the damage and problem so large, what is an individual supposed to do to help? With that in mind, this article is going to go over a few things that an individual can do to help the environment.
Reduce Your Usage of Water and Energy
When we’re at home, many of us don’t stop and think how much water, energy or power we may be using. However, monitoring and reducing your usage is one of the best things you can do to help the environment. Whether this is using less water before you hop in the shower or using less water when you wash dishes, it all can make a difference.
Running your furnace or air conditioning all day, or constantly using your appliances can also waste a lot of energy, power or water. If you don’t want to limit or watch your usage, consider purchasing some energy-efficient appliances which will waste less by default.
All of this can help your home be more energy-efficient and reduce your carbon footprint. Not only that, but many of these practices can also save you money. Also, another option is to look at green energy solutions in your area (such as the ones offered at https://www.energybot.com/green/). These will ensure your home is as green as possible, without adding a ton of unnecessary costs.
Recycle and Reuse
Did you know that most plastic out there is not recycled? In fact, over 90% of plastic is not recycled and is instead thrown away like regular garbage. If plastic and other recycled material is simply thrown in the trash, it finds its way into landfills or our oceans. You can do your part by making sure to recycle your plastic and other materials in the right place. Many cities have recycling programs in place and if not, there are surely several places recycling can be taken to in your city.
In addition to recycling things that you can, be sure to reuse all materials and items that you can. This can be reusing a water bottle instead of wasting a dozen plastic ones, or purchasing a reusing cloth shopping bags. You can even reuse your old food waste in the form of compost. Before you toss anything out, think if there is something of value it can be used for or if there is a better alternative.
Travel in a Responsible Manner
One of the biggest contributors to damaging our air and environments are our cars. They burn a ton of fuel, and emit the pollution right into the air. With hundreds of millions of cars on the road throughout the world, that is a lot of emissions. If you want to do your part, you can travel in a more responsible manner.
Walking, using public transit or even simply riding your bike are all great ways to greatly reduce your carbon footprint. Even simply carpooling with others can be helpful, as well. Carpooling can also save people money, and allow you to build relationships at the same time. While this type of thing isn’t always possible, even doing it once in a while is better than nothing.
In conclusion, the information and tips included in this article will be able to help you do your part to protect and preserve the environment. While environmental change can take some time, every little bit of effort can and will help.
