7 Easy Ways You Can Help the Environment
1.) Buy Sustainable Seafood
When buying seafood look for the blue fish MSC Certified Sustainable Seafood stamp. If you are eating at a restaurant don’t hesitate to ask your waiter or waitress if their seafood is sustainable. You can also download the Monterey Bay Aquarium’s Seafood Watch pocket guide or app which suggests the best choicesfor seafood based on your location. http://www.seafoodwatch.org/cr/cr_seafoodwatch/download.aspx
2.) Buy Energy Efficient
When shopping always keep an eye out for products that are more energy efficient or use less toxic chemicals. It can help you save when it comes to your monthly energy bill, plus its helping the environment. Top 10 USA lists the top 10 energy efficient products for twelve different categories ranging from computers to cars.
3.) Walk or Bike
Attempt to walk or bike if you’re headed somewhere nearby. If your destination is a bit further maybe use public transportation. You’ll save money on gas while also helping to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. As an added bonus it’s a good source of exercise that isn’t using exercise machines which often use a lot of energy.
4.) Buy Local
Visiting a local farmers market can be a fun Sunday morning trip, where you can often find the best tasting fruits and vegetables. Local businesses require less transportation of goods which means less pollution and congestion.
5.) Create a Composting Bin
Composting bins are a great way to reduce your waste and help create free fertilizer for your garden or yard. If you don’t want to spend the money on one there are several DIY instructions online such as this one by The Art of Simple:
http://theartofsimple.net/how-to-make-a-compost-bin/
6.) Opt for Reusable Bags and Other Products
Reusable bags are an awesome alternative to plastic bags for multiple reasons. Firstly, they are inexpensive, but can still be relatively fashionable and fun. Marshall’s sells some neat bags for just ninety-nine cents. Even better if you get one that’s made out of recycled plastics, such as the Whole Foods bags. Secondly, some stores even give rewards for bringing your own bags. In the end it benefits you, the stores, and the environment. Try stick to other reusable products as well such as a reusable water bottle or tupperware. Take advantage of your college’s “Free and for Sale” Facebook page if you have one. It’s the perfect way to get a few bucks for something you might otherwise throw away, or find something you need for cheap.
7.) Conserve Energy Around the House or Dorm
Make sure to always unplug electronics in addition to turning them off. Some appliances and chargers still take up energy even when they aren’t in use, which is know as “vampire power”. For example, your computer charger may still be using energy if it is plugged in even if it isn’t charging your computer. A few other small tips are to keep the doors closed to rooms you’re not in to conserve heat, and turn down your thermostat at night and when you’re gone. If your dorm’s showers take awhile to heat up be mindful of how long your letting it run for. Finally, buying your books on Kindle or Audible can save you money while saving paper at the same time.
PHOTOS:
http://www.lifetasteslikefood.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/sesame-crusted-ahi-tuna-sideview3.jpg
http://www.freshlytechy.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/01/Energy-Efficient-Light-Bulbs.jpg
http://blog.goshen.edu/creationcare/files/2011/06/bike22.jpg
http://www.gainesvillechamber.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/09/buylocalw-tag.png
http://www.cityofmadison.com/streets/compost/images/EarthMachine_000.jpg
http://njsurfriderdrafts.files.wordpress.com/2012/03/ecobag.jpg