In recent years, green living has become a popular term. It refers specifically to living in a way that has a positive effect on the environment.
Even though it may seem impossible to save the planet for one person only, even small changes in our daily lives can make an impact. Many seniors might be wondering what they can do for Earth Day, which is just around the corner.
This list highlights a variety simple ways seniors can live more sustainably whether they are living independently or in a retirement community.
Recycle properly
When we sort recyclables from trash in the house, we have no doubt that we have the best intentions. There are likely items you have been throwing in the recycling bin that cannot be recycled. If a batch contains such items, it is not safe to recycle the whole batch.
Takeout containers and pizza boxes should be cleaned of food residue before being recycled. Plastic bags should not be taken to stores without bins that are designated for recycling and collecting them. Contact your local municipality to find out the specific items that are accepted in your town’s recycling program.
Reduce single-use plastics
The United States Environmental Protection Agency reports that only 8.7% of the more than 35,000,000 tons of plastics produced in the United States in 2018 was recycled. Look for ways to reduce the overall use of plastics.
Instead of using individual, disposable plastic water bottles, consider using a refillable bottle. Resealable silicon storage bags can be used in place of disposable plastic bags. Many grocery stores encourage the use and recycling of shopping bags.
Reduce your energy and water consumption
It is as easy as changing your lightbulbs to LED bulbs, installing low-flow showerheads, and reducing energy consumption by at minimum 75% and at most 60%. You won’t even notice it every day!
All common areas on The Hickman campus’ Anna T. Jeanes Building have motion-sensor lighting to conserve electricity.
Purchase sustainable products
It may be surprising that many of the products we use – from personal hygiene products to cleaning supplies – have a significant impact on the environment through the chemicals they contain and their plastic packaging.
Switch to products that have a lower impact on the environment such as bamboo toothbrushes, nontoxic cleaning materials (or make it yourself) and washable cloths instead of using paper towels.
Donate and reuse
Spring cleaning is a great opportunity to practice environmental mindfulness. An old T-shirt that has stains and holes makes an excellent cleaning cloth. A wooden crate, which once held your clementines from the supermarket, can double as a pantry organization. Local animal shelters will welcome old sheets and towels.
Goodwill, Salvation Army, Green Drop and others accept donations of items in good conditions. This makes it possible to extend the useful life of items that we no longer need and keep them from going to landfills.
Since 1891, The Hickman Friends Senior Community serves seniors from all faiths in West Chester. Our commitment to environmental sustainability is guided by Quaker traditions and values. We live out our Quaker values of simplicity, integrity and community. Call 484-760-6300 to schedule a tour.
