If you sit down and think about it, we live in somewhat crazy times.
We cause irreversible damage to our environment, while being eco-friendly has never been easier. In fact, we are going to give you a couple of ways to make your daily routine eco-friendly just to show you how easy it really is. And, with any luck, some of you will implement these little changes and make our environment that much better.
Easy ways to make your daily routine eco-friendly
The great thing about the ways in which you can make your daily routine eco-friendly is that they are also good for you. Most of them will not only help you preserve the environment but will also help you lead a healthier, happier life. So, do yourself a favor and at least try a couple of them.
Limit your electronics
The first thing you should do if you want to make your daily routine eco-friendly is to limit your electronics. Every electronic item that you use requires energy. And, since we are still working out the kinks in how to harness solar energy, this means that you are hurting the environment. So, if you really want to go greener, start by putting away your phone and laptop. Limit yourself to only using the electronics when necessary. And, instead of endlessly scrolling on Instagram, go for a run or read a good book.
Going outside to read a book can be a great routine to have.
Recycling
You cannot talk about keeping your environmental footprint low without considering recycling. The amount of materials that people throw away in western societies is simply staggering. And if there is one thing that different-coloured bins have shown us , it’s that recycling takes very little effort. All you have to do is to sort out your rubbish and put it away accordingly.
Eco-friendly containers
But, even before we come to recycling our plastic and cardboard containers, we should consider which ones we use. After all, the biggest amount of plastic in nature comes from containers. So, if you really want to start being eco-friendly, start thinking about the containers that you use. There are numerous eco-friendly options for packing and containing that are quite easy to use. You can, for instance, opt for renting plastic containers and make your relocation that much more eco-friendly. Plus, by getting different coloured bins, you can make unpacking fun for your kids. Not to mention all the different alternatives to plastic grocery bags and cardboard coffee mugs.
Carrying your own coffee cup is a great way to make your daily routine eco-friendly.
The ways in which you can make your everyday containers more eco-friendly are endless. All you need to do is to research them a bit.
Reduce meat
The meat industry is one of the worlds largest contributors to greenhouse gasses. Therefore, if you want to make your daily routine eco-friendly, the way to do so is simple. Reduce the amount of meat that you eat. Most people in western countries eat way more meat than they actually need. And, if you read up a bit more on diet and nutrition, you will see just how important it is that you eat your vegetables and fruit. Try to purchase only local products and make your food at home, if you want to increase your sustainability even more. You don’t have to go vegetarian or vegan. Instead, simply try to have a more balanced diet.
Clean plate
And, while we are on the subject of food, we would also advise you to clean your plate. Another plague of western societies is that we throw away a lot of our food. In fact, about one-third of the food produced in the world gets thrown away. This, form our point of view, is atrocious. But, if you want to make a change, start with your own plate. Make sure that you only prepare enough food consumption and that you don’t throw any away. If everyone would simply do so, the amount of wasted food would be much lower.
Walk or use a bike
Most of us lead quite a sedentary lifestyle. We spend almost all our days sitting, either at work or at home. So, if you want to lead a healthier life, consider cutting your driving time. Not only will you not driving reduce the amount of CO2 that gets into the environment, but you will also do your health a huge benefit. After all, one of the oldest Tibetan proverbs is that the secret to living well and longer is: eat half, walk double, laugh triple and love without measure.
Riding a bike is both a great exercise and an easy way to go about.
Carpool
But, if you do need to take a car to your work, consider carpooling. Carpooling is a great way to not only help the environment but also to make new friends. There are even apps you can download that will help you find people to carpool with. So, doing carpool is easier than ever. All you have to do is have a bit of environmental awareness.
Paperless work
Another way to make your work more eco-friendly is to avoid using paper as much as possible. While there are some eco-friendly alternatives to paper, the best way is simply to avoid using it altogether. After all, we are living in the age of smartphones and high-speed internet. Therefore, there is little reason for you to still base your work on paper documents.
Use your blinds
Having a self-sustaining home is a great way to lead an eco-friendly life. But, it is not the easiest or the cheapest one. So, before you go buying solar panels and making your home more energy sustainable, consider simply using your blinds properly. People waste a lot of energy by keeping their blinds open when they want to cool their homes, and closing them when they want to heat it. Remember, the sun plays a big role in temperature levels, even indoors. So, if you want to reduce your energy wastage, just manage your blinds properly.
This article was kindly written and contributed by Sally Norton.
