What does it take to be an environmentalist? Do you have to swear off meat, eat only organic, ditch your car, go totally off the grid, and ride a bicycle?
Simple Steps to Protect the Environment
While these things are admirable there are still small things that all of us can do to conserve energy and contribute to caring for the earth. It can be discouraging to people who are making changes to be told it’s just not good enough by others who may mean well but come off as judgmental extremists.
Here are some simple ways that you can begin to protect the environment and go greener without moving off to a cabin in the woods. Not that there’s anything wrong with that.
- Turn off your lights and computers when not in use and unplug those chargers that are still sucking energy.
- Switch to compact fluorescent bulbs. They last much longer so will save you money in the long run and they cut down on green house emissions.
- Recycle your paper, plastic and glass. Reuse when possible. Some of those pickle and jam jars make great drinking glasses or candle holders. Use the other side of your paper before putting it in the recycling bin.
- Take shorter showers and turn that water off in between brushing your teeth, shaving and washing your face.
- Donate your clothing to a thrift store or check to see if anyone you know could use it if it’s still in good condition. If you’re a crafter, make a fun bag out of those favorite old jeans you can’t bear to throw out.
- Plant a little garden and grow some organic fruit, vegetables or herbs. Even a balcony can hold a little potted garden nicely. Raspberries, strawberries, onions, carrots, chives and basil are examples of easy things to grow.
- Support local farmers by purchasing their produce. The farmers market is a great place to find some fresh produce, save money and meet some neighbors. By going for locally grown food you also save on unnecessary transportation that helps cut down on burning fossil fuels.
- Save on transportation by starting a little carpool with friends or co-workers. Even if only three or four people ride in one car, it’s that many less on the road.
- Bring those reusable bags to the grocery store. If you tend to forget and you’re driving, keep a few in the trunk at all times.
- Make your own cleaning products or purchase green cleaners. You would be surprised at how well vinegar can cut grease, break up lime, make things shiny, and clean without all the harsh chemicals.
- Consider healthy lifestyle changes like quitting smoking and getting more exercise by walking sometimes instead of driving. Both contribute to improving your own health by getting more exercise and towards others by creating less pollution.
When we support each other, we can all become environmentalists by contributing in small ways. We can do this by sharing our resources and improving our own and the planet’s health.
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