April is known as Earth Month to all environmentalists worldwide. With Earth Day being the 22nd and climate change becoming a complex but important issue, here is a list of some things we can do to be more environmentally friendly. Keep in mind that there is plenty more we can do but these are a good start.
1. Cut down on plastic usage
We’ve all seen the sea turtles with straws in their noses and plastic heavily polluting ecosystems. Plastics became widely used in the 1960s and they can take up to 1,000 years to decompose. This means that every piece of plastic since it’s creation is still polluting our environment. Investing in things such as reusable straws and canvas shopping bags cuts down the amount of plastic we use in our everyday lives.
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2. When not in use, turn it off
This means turning off the water while you’re brushing your teeth or even turning the shower off while you’re shaving your legs. Turn all lights off when you’re leaving to reduce your carbon footprint.
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3. Reduce meat consumption
No this doesn’t mean to go completely vegetarian or vegan, but livestock agriculture is one of the main contributors of greenhouse gases. If everyone cut meat out of their lives even just once or twice a week, it would have a dramatic impact on the environment.
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4. Invest in eco-friendly beauty and cleaning products
Although they can be a little pricey compared to other products, they contain all natural, organic ingredients that aren’t harmful to the environment. Avoid face washes and masks that have microbeads and other harsh chemicals. Not only will your health thank you, but so will the Earth!
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5. Try thrifting
Another contributor to greenhouse gases and pollutants is companies in fast fashion. The other problem with fast fashion is the fact that many of these items end up getting used a few times and then sit in the landfill for many years. Thrifting ensures that all items in the store are being reused and another plus, you can find some pretty cool items for a low price!
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6. Grow your own food
It can be something as simple as growing your own fruits or vegetables in your background. Even looking at community gardens where you can plant things that everyone around you will benefit from. It’ll cut down on you having to drive to the grocery store and this way you know exactly where your food is coming from.
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7. Reduce, Reuse and Recycle
You’ve heard this your whole life but it really is helpful. Reduce using things you don’t need like plastics and styrofoam. Reuse straws, canvas bags and other environmentally friendly items. Recycle any and everything– paper, glass, clothes, there are even locations where you can recycle ink cartridges and cell phones! Make sure of these programs to ensure you’re doing your part to protect our environment.
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We only have one planet Earth and we have to do everything in our power to protect it and conserve it for future generations to come. Happy Earth month, collegiettes!