Lately, there has been talk in the media, at family dinner tables, and in classrooms about climate change and what individuals can do to help decrease the staggering rates of pollution in our oceans and airways. We are writing to inform you of simple measures you can take daily in the places you live and in conversations you have with family and friends. Throughout this article, we are going to break down five different ways you can help. What can you do now to help the environment?
- Bring Your Own Bags
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If you keep your reusable bags in your car you will never forget them when you run your errands. However, if you happen to forget the bags and aren’t buying a lot, don’t be afraid to tell the cashier you don’t need a bag. Be the change we need to see.
- Have the Conversation
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Many people are afraid to talk about controversial topics. However, if you approach it with a focus on the other person, and ask them how THEY feel about the topic, you’ll have more success breaking the barrier. If there are issues with this, you can throw in a comment here and there about other little ways to help conserve energy. For example, if someone likes to drive around the corner, suggest that you all walk instead.
- Spend Time Outside
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Sometimes you have to appreciate your surroundings, you have to know what you’re fighting for. Being outdoors gives you an awareness of the beauty of nature, so take a walk or watch the stars.
- Pay a Little More to Save a Little More
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Many people go through thousands of plastic water bottles a year. But where do those bottles end up? In our oceans, harming fish and other organisms living in the waters. Although reusable water bottles like the brands Hydroflask and Yeti may be more expensive, you are actually saving money by paying that one-time expense, instead of the continual expense of plastic water bottles.
- Meatless Mondays
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Cutting back on the amount of meat you eat can make an immense impact as well! Meat factories produce pollution, so simply eating fruits and vegetables you grow from your own garden can make a difference. Eating anything but meat can help you feel cleaner healthwise, but also will decrease pollution from meat factories. Less meat eaten = less meat produced.
How will you take the initiative to be more Earth friendly? How will you add these five little things into your everyday routine? It is important to note that you do not have to use all of these suggestions, but start small and build up from there. It is also helpful to have people hold you accountable, so have your friends or family join in with your initiative to save the environment! If you enjoyed this article look forward to five additional ways to take initiative next month.