The new year is upon us. Consider making a resolution not to break your New Year’s promises: to protect the environment.
This can be done in less than five minutes. It will make you feel good and make the environment feel better.
Since seventh grade, my goal has been to make a difference in people’s actions and positively impact the environment. The average person cannot influence large corporations. However, there are some tips and tricks that everyone can use to make a difference.
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My experience shows that people don’t do the most environmentally responsible things not because they don’t care or are too lazy but because they don’t know how to help. Everyday new worrying statistics make it more urgent to protect our planet.
Here are 10 easy things you can do every day to help the environment.
Reusable grocery bags are a great option
This is a popular way to help the environment. You can easily carry a folded bag around with you in your pocket, purse or car for memorization purposes. You can simply put them back in the place you found them when you’re done using them. This will reduce your carbon footprint.
You can also use mesh bags to protect your produce, as opposed to the plastic ones you’ll find at grocery stores. It can be kept in your larger bag, in the glovebox, or anywhere else that is convenient. Ask your cashier if they have paper bags if you forget your reusable bags in a grocery store.
You can purchase reusable shopping bagsAnd Mesh bags for produceAmazon.
Eliminate the sandwich bag
These single-use bags can be useful, but they are harmful for the environment.
Buy an Silicone bag is equally convenientIt will pay off quickly. It can be used for all the same purposes as the sandwich bag except that it can be refrigerated. You can use it for almost any food group. After use, you can easily clean it by putting it in the dishwasher.
This investment is a win all around, as it is more affordable, quicker, and more sustainable.
Reduce the need to wrap plastic wrap
Reusable plastic wrap substitutes are another way to positively impact our environment in a matter of seconds. Beeswax paperscan be shaped to fit any container. Flexible silicone lidsThey are another viable option to cover any dish or bowl.
Take rings off of cartons and bottles
Before you throw away or recycle a container or bottle with a cap, make sure to check if there is a plastic ring around its opening. This is also true for cutting the plastic rings around 6-pack drinks.
Before you throw it away, take 15 seconds and use a pair of scissors. Uncut rings can become stuck on various parts of animals, such as around the neck, stomachs, or mouths. This difference of 15 seconds can save the life of an animal that is in danger.
Reduce portions
Although you might think you can eat the entire pot of mac and cheese, it’s better to eat smaller portions. There are no cons. You still have the freedom to eat to your heart’s content, while decreasing your chances of food being wasted. When you are done eating, take the food out and put it in a container. reusable container Tomorrow is possible.
Buy with discretion
You can’t decide whether you want to go to the grocery store or the mall if the environment isn’t helping. A simple shift in mindset can make a big difference in the condition of our planet.
If one item is more durable than the other, you might consider buying it. This applies to fruit that can be eaten whole, such as a whole pineapple. It also includes fruit that is cut up and placed in a single-use plastic bag. Another example is milk packaging. Would you prefer a cardboard or plastic carton?
Avoid single-use plastic containers
It is much easier to avoid single-use plastic bottles when you have a reusable bottleYou are close by. It may seem obvious but it is more difficult than you might think to eliminate the use of plastic bottles. You can reduce your chances of purchasing a plastic one by having a reusable. It’s also way cheaper!
A purchase of a reusable water bottle is another way to avoid plastic bottles. Water filterYou can use it in your home. A glass cup is a stylish addition to your home. Combining the two is possible by purchasing a Reusable water bottle with filterThere are many possibilities in it!
Laundry sheets are a great option
My family and I have also picked up a few things through my passion for the environment. We have found the convenience and sustainability inLaundry sheetsUse liquid detergent that comes in large plastic bottles, instead.
This is much easier than using liquid detergent. You just need to rip it up and toss it in the washing machine.
Conserve energy
You can change your bad habits. This includes simple tasks such as turning off the water supply when brushing your teeth, closing your fridge when it is not necessary, and opening a window rather than the air conditioner.
Another option is using your toaster oven to its full extent. The small oven should be set at 350 degrees, not the large. Reduce the time you spend in the shower by a minute or so. When you are using soap, turn off the faucet. Double check that the lights are turned off when you leave a room. There are many options!
Recycling
Recyclables are rarely recycled. Instead of blaming recycling firms that have millions upon millions of tonnes of materials to sort, double-check the item to ensure it is recyclable. Also, rinse any food residues and other contaminants from it.
Tip: Take apart cardboard boxes and fold them in order to fit more into your recycling container.
Researchers, engineers, scientists, and other professionals are trying to reverse the effects of climate change. However, you can do your part to make their job easier or at least less difficult.
These 10 habits and tasks are quick and easy to do, and could save a life or help our planet be more sustainable.
Avery Vaughan, a junior at Council Rock High School South, is an avid writer. She is an avid writer and plays volleyball for Council Rock Volleyball Club 17-1s.