10 Ways To Save The Planet
We have no other planet to rely on: Earth is our only home. That’s why it is incredibly important to take care of this wonderful blue planet. There are plenty of things each of us can do to help reduce greenhouse gases and carbon emissions, which have harmful impacts on the environment. Nowadays, taking care of the Earth is not just a responsibility - it's a necessity. In that spirit, we have come up with 10 things you can do to help save the planet.
Use Energy Efficient Lightbulbs
Using energy efficient lightbulbs can reduce the amount of power you use. Not only will this save your wallet, but it will also bring tremendous benefits to the planet by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
Reduce. Reuse. Recycle
By cutting down on things you throw away daily, you can help reduce water and air pollution. Follow the three “R’s” listed above, natural resources and landfill space can be conserved.
Eat Sustainably
Food production is a major driver of wildlife extinction. What we eat is responsible for almost 60% of global biodiversity loss. Opting for a more plant-based diet can lower your impact on the environment. Vegetarian foods are not only rich in minerals and nutrients, but are also less expensive and can reduce your weekly food bills.
Re-think Your Water Consumption
Say no to plastic bottles at stores. Around 90% of water bottles end up decomposing in landfills rather than being recycled. So, our advice for you is to buy a high-quality reusable water bottle or a travel mug and refill it from the tap or your work or university water fountain.
Plant a Tree
Trees provide oxygen and food for animals as well as humans. They also help clean the air and combat climate change. Planting a tree in your backyard has major benefits for the environment. It can also shade your home, beautify your garden, and hey, who knows—maybe it’ll increase the value of your property.
Buy Second Hand
A lot of things can be used multiple times, clothes included. Clothes are one of the biggest contributors to land pollution. Thrifting can save you a lot of money, help reduce packaging materials, and, most importantly, reduce waste.
Avoid Plastic Bags
Plastic bags are neither biodegradable nor recyclable. They rot in landfills for decades and end up polluting the ocean. They also kill sea animals and infiltrate food sources, coming into the food we eat on a daily basis. A stronger and reusable bag is hugely beneficial for the environment.
Don’t Use Plastic Coffee Stirrers, Straws or Lids
In just the U.S. alone, one estimate suggests 500 million straws are used every single day. Not only are they bad for the environment, but they also waste your money. At a coffee shop, ask the barrista keep the plastic stirrer, straw, and lid. Why do we need all this plastic, when at home we use, wash, and reuse the humble spoon?
Use Rechargeable Batteries
It’s common knowledge that the corrosive acid in batteries is extremely dangerous for soil. Although at first a rechargeable battery seems like an unnecessary expense, in the long term a rechargeable unit will end up saving you some money.
Bike More. Drive less
Cycling and walking reduces air pollution, as these modes of transportation emit no greenhouse gases. It can also save valuable green space from development by eliminating the need for new parking lots and roadways.
Text by
Veronika Mark