are treating the Earth. These days, people are becoming more aware of their carbon footprint and the influence their actions are having on the environment.Every individual can do or change something in their lives to live a more sustainable and environmentally friendly lifestyle. You might think that this is only applicable if you live in the countryside or plant your own crop, but it doesn’t matter if you live in a small apartment or big mansion, you can make a difference.
Let us take a look at 16 ways to secure an environmentally friendly lifestyle:
1. Bike to work
If you live in walking or cycling distance from your workplace, why not commute to work? Try to use your car only when it’s really necessary like for instance when you have to transport heavy items or run all your errands at once. Create a love for bicycles in your family and you will be fit before you know it.
2. Buy reusable bags
Try and buy garbage bags that are reusable; this way when they collect your recycled materials, they will be able to use the bag again. Take your own shopping bags to the shop to prevent having to buy a plastic bag at the counter.
3. Switch off appliances
Switch off your television as well as your computer when you go to bed at night. Remember to unplug all electronic appliances as well.
4. Don’t use the tumble dryer
If the weather permits it, do your washing by hand and hang it on a washing line to dry. On this topic, you can also let your hair dry naturally every now and again instead of always using the blow dryer and straightener.
5. Open the curtains
A lot of natural light goes to waste when you live with your curtains closed. Use the day’s natural lighting for as long as possible before you switch on the lights. Start your day early by rising with the sun and allowing your body to follow its natural rhythm.
6. Buy eco-friendly products
Check the ingredients of the product you are buying, especially your cleaning products. They need to specify that they are environmentally friendly.
7. Energy saving lights
If you check at your local supermarket, you will see that you have the option to buy energy-saving bulbs for the lights in your home. These might be a bit more expensive but well worth it in the long run.
8. Pay your bills online
There are a lot of things you can do online to prevent unnecessary paperwork and admin. Ask your bank or account holder to send you an invoice or statement online instead of having it mailed to your home.
9. Collect rainwater
Find a method of collecting the rainwater in and around your home and reuse this water for the garden’s irrigation system.
10. Reduce the use of plastic
Don’t buy bottled water every day. Rather buy two long-lasting water bottles and filter your own water.
11. Plant a seed
Educate yourself in gardening by planting your own herb garden.
12. Buy second hand
Don’t always go for the latest and newest products; check to see if there isn’t already the same product available online that is not being used by someone else.
13. Use scrap paper
This is very smart, especially if you have children that love to draw. Always use both sides of the paper and remember to recycle afterwards.
14. Shop at your farmer’s market
Shopping at your local farmer’s market will support your town’s economy and help a great deal with sustainability.
15. Make your home clutter free
If you organize your home and throw out items that you don’t use anymore, you can give that to your community or someone in need of those items.
16. Spread the word
If you are living an environmentally friendly lifestyle, it won’t be long before people start asking how. Spread the word by holding a monthly green living meeting in your community. Here you can share tips and tricks when it comes to sustainable living.
These are just a few of the hundreds of ways you can secure that you are doing your part for Mother Nature’s survival. Don’t overthink it; start today!
About the Author
Kate Simmons is a fresh graduate who enjoys writing about topics related to education and green economy.