Consider making a resolution to do something simple this year, rather than making New Years promises like you did in the past: Protect the environment.
This is possible in under five minutes. It will make your environment and you feel good.
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. The urgency to protect our planet is greater than ever, with every day bringing out new alarming statistics.
Here are 10 easy things you can do every day to help the environment.
Use reusable grocery bags
This is a common way to help the planet. You can easily carry a folded bag around with you in your purse, car or pocket for memorization purposes. Once you’re done with them, you can just put them back where they were originally placed. You reduce your carbon footprint by doing this.
Mesh bags can be used for produce in place of the plastic ones that grocery stores sell. You can carry it in your larger bag or in your glovebox. If you forget your reusable bags at the grocery store, ask the cashier if there are paper bags available.
You can buy reusable shopping bags Mesh bags for produceAmazon.
Eliminate the sandwich bag
These single-use bags can be useful, but they are harmful for the environment.
Purchase an Silicone bag is equally convenientIt will pay off quickly. It can be used in the same way as a sandwich bag, even refrigeration. It can be used for almost all food types and can be washed in the dishwasher after each use.
This investment is a win all around, as it is more affordable, quicker, and more sustainable.
Eliminate the use of plastic wrap
You can also positively impact the environment by using reusable plastic wrap replacements. Beeswax papersCan be bent to fit any container and washed again. Flexible silicone lidsYou can also use them to cover any dish or bowl.
Take rings off of cartons and bottles
Before throwing away or recycling any container with a lid, check to make sure there is a plastic band around the container’s opening. This applies to cutting the plastic rings on 6-pack beverages.
You will need to take 15 seconds and a pair scissors to cut the ring. Then, you can throw it out. Uncut rings can catch on various parts of animals such as the neck, stomach, and mouth. 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 to this, despite the fact that there are many! You can still eat as much as you like, but it will also reduce the chance of food going to waste. When you are done eating, take the rest of your food and put it in a container. reusable container To have tomorrow.
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 carton made of cardboard or one made of plastic?
Avoid single-use plastic containers
It is much easier to avoid single-use plastic bottles when you have a reusable bottleAt hand. Although it may seem obvious, it is much more difficult to get rid of plastic bottles. You can reduce your chances of purchasing a plastic one by having a reusable. It is also much cheaper!
Another way to avoid the plastic bottle is to buy a Water filterYou can use it in your home. Bonus: A glass cup looks way more elegant. Combining the two is possible by purchasing a Reusable water bottle with a filterIt has endless possibilities!
Laundry sheets?
My passion for the environment has led my family to also pick up a few items. We have come to appreciate the convenience and sustainability ofLaundry 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
To make a change, get out of bad habits. This includes simple tasks like turning off the water while brushing your teeth and closing the fridge when it isn’t necessary.
Another option is to make the most of your toaster oven. 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. Turn off your faucet when you’re using soap. Double check that the lights are turned off when you leave a room. There are so many possibilities!
Recycling
Very few recyclables get recycled. Instead of blaming recycling firms that have millions upon millions of tonnes of materials to sort, double-check the item to make sure it can be recycled. Also, rinse any food residues and other contaminants out of it.
Tip: Take apart cardboard boxes and fold them in order to fit more into your recycling container.
Researchers, scientists, engineers, 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 tasks and habits 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. A passionate writer, she plays volleyball for Council Rock Volleyball Club 17-1s and Princeton Volleyball Club 17.
