As we become more aware of the effects everyday items have on the environment, people are now looking for alternatives that will help lower their carbon footprint. From businesses making changes from plastic takeaway containers to cardboard platter boxes to swapping your plastic bottle of water for a reusable one, there are lots of small changes that can be made. So, if you want to become environmentally conscious, keep reading and discover 5 easy ways you can be more eco-friendly.
- Change Up Your Cleaning Products
Most cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that when washed into the water system, take more energy to be filtered out and removed. They can also damage the natural ecosystem within the environment so by trying out more organic alternatives, you can cut down on the amount of damage that’s caused. Things like white vinegar and lemon juice can be tough enough to remove germs but not so harsh that they have harmful effects on the environment. If you don’t want to make your own cleaning products, there are numerous pre-made ones on the market now that are also in recyclable or reusable bottles. Some places that offer natural cleaning products also have a refill station too, so when you run out you can simply refill it without needing a new bottle. This cuts down on the number of bottles that need to be recycled too, which in turn, uses less energy.
- Don’t Drive Everywhere
Public transport might not be a viable means of getting everywhere you need to go but cutting down on the number of car trips you take a week can drastically help your carbon footprint. Think about how many people on average use their car to get to work each day. Now imagine what would happen if all of them used public transport instead. Not only would it slice the amount of toxic fumes emitted into the air, but it could also save a lot of money in the long run. Similarly, if a journey is 5 minutes by car, but 15 by foot, make the right decision and walk the journey instead. Making small changes to the way you travel will help the environment and it could also help your health!
- Save On Water
Wasting water is very easy to do, so try and take slightly shorter showers or even save and collect rainwater for your garden instead of relying on a hose. Something as simple as turning the tap off when you brush your teeth can save so much water too. Conserving the amount of water used on a daily basis means less energy is needed to refilter and clean it.
- Switch To LED
Unless you want to live by candlelight, you’ll have to light your home with electric bulbs. However, standard bulbs can use a lot of electricity, especially in the winter when the days are shorter and darker. Try swapping them out for LED bulbs instead. Not only are they more eco-friendly, but they come in a much wider range of colors and brightness’s so you can really personalise your room.
- Cut Your Food Waste
Cutting down food waste doesn’t mean eating everything on your plate. It’s about making sure the food you do have doesn’t go to waste. Half a carrot and a spoonful of peas is hardly wasteful but throwing away whole bags of potatoes and packets of chicken breasts is. To ensure you eliminate as much food waste as you can, try planning your shopping better and only buy what you really need. Another top tip is to arrange your food so the closest to expiring is at the front and will be used first. This way you’ll throw away less food and save money at the same time.
By looking at the bigger picture, you’ll be more conscious of the choices you make, and you’ll find it easier to adapt. But being more eco-friendly doesn’t happen overnight. You need to make the right decisions each and every day, but don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Do the best you can and make changes that will enhance your life too.
