Earlier this year, scientists announced that we are not doing enough to slow down the environmental crisis we will face in the future. It is now more important than ever to make green choices to protect our environment. While it may not seem like it, every person can make small decisions that have big impacts on the environment. Here are some everyday choices you can make to protect the environment and create a healthier world for everyone:
1. Only purchase what you need
In today’s world, it can be easy to go overboard when you are out shopping for groceries, clothes, and other items. By buying only what you need you not only save money, but reduce waste and carbon emissions while also saving energy, water, and resources. You should always write a shopping list and stick to it before heading to the store and focus on what you need versus what you want.
2. Reduce your meat and dairy consumption
The meat and dairy industry is responsible for releasing a large amount of greenhouse gasses into the atmosphere—in fact meat and dairy companies produce more greenhouse emissions every year than oil companies. Imported meat and dairy also comes with unfortunate consequences, including the destruction of forest ecosystems. With that said, by reducing your meat and dairy consumption you can make a big impact and protect the environment. To reduce your meat and dairy consumption add a meatless dinner once a week, add more veggies and fruits to your diet, and choose plant-based milk options.
3. Reuse and recycle
A simple way to protect the environment in your everyday life is to reuse and recycle. In many communities around the nation, recycling programs make it extremely easy to recycle paper, cardboard, plastic, and glass products. Before you sort your recycled goods, you can pick out pieces that you can reuse and repurpose, such as glass jars. Many jelly and sauce jars can be reused as drinking glasses or as a way to store your spices or other kitchen essentials. Reusing and recycling at home reduces waste sent to landfills, prevents pollution, and conserves energy.
4. Purchase sustainable products
A sustainable product can be produced and consumed in a way that does not result in harm to the environment. Sustainable products are more durable, reusable, and long-lasting. They are also energy efficient, less toxic, and help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. By purchasing sustainable products, you reduce your impact on the environment by creating less waste. Sustainable products to add to your home include reusable paper towel alternatives, silicone straws, bamboo toothbrushes, and reusable sandwich bags.
5. Volunteer with local environmental groups
Reaching out and volunteering with local environmental groups is a great way to protect the environment. Not only will you gain skills and experience, but you will also help protect the environment on a larger scale outside of your own home. You can help your community learn practical ways they can make green choices to protect the environment, volunteer to plant trees, host a clean-up, grow a community garden, and more.