By Saeeda Ruffin
Whether you believe climate change is real or not, if you are like most people, you want the Earth to continue to provide all the things people need to live a healthy life. Every one of us has a basic human responsibility to take care of our planet. How awesome would it be if every single person on the planet recognized their impact on the Earth’s health? What if we all learned what we can do to offset actions that are detrimental to the planet? Wouldn’t that be phenomenal! The best place to start is with yourself. You in? Let’s get into it! Here are 10 earth-friendly sustainability tips we can embrace to show our commitment to keeping our world green, livable, and healthy.
GET CREATIVE WITH YOUR CLOTHES
Instead of throwing away clothing, try to repurpose it, refashion it, or donate it. There is so much you can do, from making accessories to literally creating new and unique pieces. There are also organizations that take used clothing and turn them into textiles for businesses and construction purposes, so your old jeans don’t have to end up in a landfill.
SAY NO TO PLASTIC
Going shopping? Take your own reusable bags. Plastic bags can take up to 1,000 years to decompose.
BUY A BIKE
There can be huge physical benefits to using a bicycle to get around. Well, the impact on the planet is also huge. By not driving a gas-fueled car, you are reducing emissions, and that really matters!
GET DIGITAL
Get digital with your bills, communications, and even event invitations. If you can, put your bills on autopay and set your preference for paperless billing. This will not only ensure your bills are always paid on time, but you’ll receive your communications electronically and it will substantially reduce the amount of paper you receive in the mail.
UNPLUG
Believe it or not, just about everything uses power when it’s left plugged in. That includes your TV, computer, and so many other home appliances. When not in use, unplug if you can.
USE A DISHWASHER
Hand-washing dishes wastes water and today’s dishwashers are super-efficient. That’s one last thing you’ll have to worry about doing, and you get to help save the planet in the process.
GO THRIFTING
Shopping at thrift stores can be one of the most effective ways to reduce the waste in landfills. Thrift for yourself, your family, and your friends. You can get everything from books to clothes to housewares at most thrift stores.
GIFT EXPERIENCES
People love activities that are new, fun, or interactive. They will remember those types of gifts a lot longer than just a “thing.” Plus, you can enjoy the activity with them and really make memories together.
USE TECHNOLOGY
When taking notes, try using your phone or tablet. Use programs that create electronic files to reduce or eliminate using paper.
GIVE BACK
Give back to the planet by planting a tree or garden, composting, and adding plants to your home and workspaces. You will breathe a sigh of relief knowing your efforts will benefit everyone on the Earth!
