Can we still save our Earth? Our blue planet has long suffered a great deal because of a lot of things, from global air and water pollution to climate change. It seems impossible to solve all problems at once. However, even the simplest things can make a big difference in our environment. Here is a list of simple things that can help you to develop an environment friendly lifestyle and to protect the environment on a daily basis.
Recycling glass
The decomposition of glass takes an extremely long time, this process is estimated to take up to a million years. This is why glass recycling is so important and should be part of your environmental routine. This helps to reduce air and water pollution.
Using a dryer
Dry your clothes, if possible, more often outdoors on a clothesline. If the dryer is not switched on every time for a wash, you will save electricity. Furthermore, your clothes will last longer and often smell fresher.
Usage of plastic bottles
Note that it is convenient to have bottled water. However, this also means that every time you buy a bottle of water at the supermarket, you will create plastic waste.
Better use a drinking bottle that you can refill from a tap, for example. This will help to reduce the amount of water bottles at landfills.
Saving water and electricity
Saving water and energy helps the environment immensely and often does not require drastic changes in everyday life. Simple activities such as switching off the tap when brushing your teeth, choosing a water-saving programme when washing the dishes and using shower water with care can already make an important contribution.
Among other things, electricity consumption can be reduced by replacing normal light bulbs with energy-efficient light bulbs, turning off electrical appliances and lighting when they are not needed, and adjusting heating or air conditioning settings more appropriately.
Using reusable bags
Plastic bags used for shopping end up in landfills and the environment. Animals, such as turtles and whales, confuse them with food and can die. The decomposition of plastic bags takes a very long time.
Instead of using plastic bags, use reusable bags when shopping. This will help reduce plastic waste and save animal lives.
Trying to walk more or ride a bike
More bicycle and public transport, less car. On foot or by bike you improve your health and burn excess calories. At the same time you contribute to the reduction of greenhouse gases. Carpooling is also a way to reduce traffic on the roads.
Making the right purchases
Keep track of your food consumption, but also your waste. With a weekly journal you can identify your own behaviour patterns. For example, you may notice that you have to dispose of 1-2 litres of milk a week because it has become bad. Adjust your shopping habits accordingly and buy less. Meanwhile, there are also apps that help to make your food use more efficient.
Composting food
Compost piles or bins are an environmentally friendly way to dispose your food waste. During composting, nutrients are returned to the ecosystem. Composted food reduces the amount of waste in a normal waste bin and can be reused in horticulture.
Here are some more ideas to help protect the environment:
- Using textiles to wrap gifts
- Print as little as possible
- Use matches instead of a lighter
- Turning off the PC overnight
- Support of restaurants offering food and dishes from the region
- Maintaining a garden
- Purchase of recycled items
As you can see, environmental protection doesn’t have to be difficult. Environmentally friendly thinking when you next shop or commute to work can make a difference.
