In order to reduce pollution and save the planet, we must all participate. There are a multitude of things we can all do. But, here are some easy ways to reduce pollution that we can practice every day.
1. Combine errands and make fewer trips out
2. Travel sustainably
Ride a bike, walk, take public transportation, or carpool. And, drive fuel efficient or electric vehicles.
3. Place Amazon and other online orders in large quantities
This decreases the amount of packaging waste. Plus, fewer trips for the delivery vehicles.
4. Wash laundry in cold water
About 75% of the total energy use and greenhouse gas emissions produced by a load of laundry come from warming the water.
5. Shop local produce
And, organic when possible.
6. Use reusable grocery bags
7. Eliminate single use plastic as much as possible
Over 150 million tons of single-use plastic is produced every year. And, the majority of that ends up in landfills. Read more about plastic here.
8. Choose products made from recycled material
9. Purchase products utilizing sustainable (and minimal) packaging
10. Purchase products made from sustainable resources–such as bamboo or hemp
11. Avoid aerosol spray products
Aerosol spray cans contain pressurized gases, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other non-decomposable materials. As a result, aerosols spray contaminants directly into the air. And, the use of aerosol cans can have a profound effect on the climate. Negative effects include ozone layer depletion and increased radiation. Plus, the emission of hazardous gases into the environment.
12. Use electric over gas when possible
Including vehicles, mowers, lawn equipment, and all other appliances and tools.
13. Compost
Organic materials in landfills (such as food waste) create gas as they decompose. Therefore, harmful pollutants are released into the environment. Composting reduces landfill waste. In addition, nutrients are added to the soil, and it is beneficial for the environment.
14. Print on both sides of recycled paper
15. Stop the junk mail
Subscribe to electronic paperless billing. Additionally, you may find the app Paper Karma useful for cutting down on junk mail delivery. Plus, they offer a free trial!
16. Turn off lights and electronics when not in use
17. Prevent water pollution and runoff
And, stop the use of pesticides, fertilizers, and other harmful chemicals. Alternatively, utilize natural substitutes.
18. Reduce landfill waste
Reduce, reuse, recycle!
19. Decrease use of single-use products
All single use products are harmful to the environment. And, they produce hundreds of millions of pounds of waste every year. Single use products should be avoided in order to decrease pollution and waste. For example, avoid things such as:
- disposable paper towels
- paper plates, dishware, and other utensils
- aluminum foil
- cotton swabs
- gift wrap
- coffee pods and K-cups
20. Plant trees
21. Utilize eco-friendly household cleaners and products with no harsh chemicals
Similar products can have profoundly different impacts on the environment. From how products are made to what ingredients they contain, our everyday purchases greatly impact the planet.
All products–from household cleaners and laundry detergent to paint and beauty products–may contain harmful chemical pollutants that evaporate into the air.
22. Utilize personal care products with no harsh chemical pollutants
23. Make small changes to your home
For example, weatherize your home, utilize a smart thermostat, and install energy efficient light bulbs.
24. And finally, eat a plant based diet!
Among many other things, eating a plant based diet:
- decreases greenhouse gas emissions
- reduces air pollution (especially from factory farming)
- decreases deforestation
- slows climate change
- protects the oceans
- is more sustainable
Together, we can reduce pollution and lessen our impact on the environment. But, it takes all of us working together, each doing our part. 💚
Additional reading:
- 40 Lifestyle Changes to Help the Environment
- 30 Ways to Cut Back on Plastic Use
- 12 Environmental Benefits of Eating a Plant Based Diet
- Bamboo: The Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Plant
If we’d all just do our part!!
Our local grocery store still aren’t recycling our used plastic bags. Everything is blamed on COVID. Not sure what that has to do with recycling bags. And they won’t use our reusable bags. Frustrating. If I check myself out I use them.
Junk mail is such a pet peeve!! Every other week an envelope from xfinity arrives offering “deals.” That is usually all we receive since we’ve gone paperless on al bills. WASTE, WASTE, WASTE!!
Love your little pine trees!!🌲
Yes, if only…
Our little pine trees are growing! 💚