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Earth is our home. And, at least for now, it is the only one we have. Our actions over hundreds of years have caused damage and we are still damaging our environment. It is important that we take steps now to ensure that Earth is a home for centuries to come. We all have a responsibility to the planet and to the generations that follow us.
Saving the Earth seems like a mammoth task. Make no mistake, it is. However, there are billions of people inhabiting this planet. If we all take small steps to reduce our carbon footprint, the impact will be significant.
Bags
How often do you forget to take shopping bags to the supermarket? We’re all guilty of this. We make an unscheduled stop at the supermarket and realise we have no shopping bags in the car. So we buy a plastic bag or even several. This number mounts up over a year or over ten years.
Every plastic bag that goes to landfill takes over 500 years to break down. Keeping a few shopping bags in your handbag or car will reduce shopping bag consumption considerably.
Some stores now offer paper bags as an alternative. However, paper is not always the best eco friendly solution. The process of creating theses bags can have a greater impact on the environment than manufacturing some plastic bags.
Look for Eco-Friendly Options
Whenever you make a purchase, get into the habit of asking yourself whether this is the most eco-friendly option. From shopping bags to furniture, there are often more eco-friendly alternatives.
Reduce Your Waste
There are lots of ways to reduce the amount of waste you create. Millions of tonnes of food are thrown away each year. This is food that is purchased but not consumed. Always write a shopping list before you go to the supermarket. Stick to the list and don’t add to it. Plan out your meals in advance and only buy what you need.
If you’re decluttering your home, check with friends and family before disposing of unwanted items. Alternatively, donate to your local charity or thrift store. Website such as Freecycle can help you to find a new home for your unwanted items.
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Sort and Recycle
Sort through household rubbish and ensure it goes into the correct trash cans. However, before throwing it away, sort through it carefully. Can unwanted items be reused or upcycled? Empty jars and containers make good vases and planters. Old, worn-through clothes can be cut to make dusters or cleaning cloths. Be creative and think about how items can be useful before throwing them away.
Once you get into a routine many of these tasks will become second nature. Make it easier for yourself by making lists. Remember to go through unwanted items regularly and don’t forget to store shopping bags in your trunk. Color coordinate your rubbish bins to make it easier for everyone to recycle. Making small changes at home will add up to big changes in the planet.
