Regardless of your purpose for pursuing a greener life, one thing is for certain – it is good for you, society, and the environment altogether. In this information-rich era, more and more people are becoming aware of the severe consequences our lifestyle has on the environment, from over-usage of resources to pollution created by improper waste management. The devastating environmental effects make the masses cautious of their carbon footprint.
There is a widespread movement for a greener lifestyle. Sustainable living carries benefits far beyond the slogan of “Save the mother Earth”. Alongside saving mother earth and reducing your carbon footprint, it also saves your precious hard-earned money. This blog will inform you about some easy-to-follow sustainable life hacks and simple ideas to reduce the overall carbon footprint that will help you move towards a greener lifestyle.
Many people want to change for good, but some find themselves stuck in the planning and financing stage. However, some small steps can be taken right away, and few changes through your day-to-day activities can positively impact the environment. Here are five simple steps that can be implemented by anyone and help make Earth a better place to live:
- Reuse and Recycle: One of the major steps towards a greener life is avoiding using one-time-use disposable utensils and containers, especially those made from plastics. Millions of plastic packaging are dumped into landfills which stays there for centuries. Plastic is made of various chemicals, making it dangerous and difficult to recycle properly; hence, most of it isn’t recycled. Recycling plastic is also a costly method.
Instead of using one-time-use plastics, always tend to use reusable cutlery.Use tin containers, from dry-food storage to keeping your left-over meals in the fridge, you can use it for multiple purposes, and it’s completely recyclable too. Bonus tip, these are mostly custom tins, meaning you can customize them easily as per your needs. They will drastically reduce your plastic waste and at the same time save you some money too. Furthermore, if you really have to opt for disposable utensils, always go for the most sustainable and recyclable option.
- Save Energy: The most efficient and impactful way to reduce carbon emission is to conserve energy in homes and offices. Adopt the green habit of turning off lights, computers, air-conditioners, and other electronic gadgets when they are not in use. Replace your old bulbs with new energy-efficient light bulbs such as LEDs. It will not only save our dear nature from excess carbon emissions but also save you some money on your energy bills, a win-win situation.
To further enhance the energy-saving movement, properly insulate your walls and ensure your windows are fully sealed. This might seem like a costly investment, but it will minimize your energy consumptions. It is a one-time investment with lifelong benefits. Implementing these simple steps can result in a pleasant surprise; you will be shocked by your savings on your energy bills.
- Conserve Water: Water is widely available to most of us residing in the developed countries. However, the vast amount of water wastage and its increased over-usage in the recent decades are serious concerns. Most people don’t even realize the consequences of water wastage. The recent droughts around the world and declining groundwater levels have put nations on their toes. Freshwater has become an essential asset to have for countries.
There are two factors to consider while discussing the wastage of water. As mentioned above, the first one is related to access to fresh water. The other problem is the associated energy waste with water wastage. Every drop of water that runs in our taps needs to be transported from water streams, filters, and purifiers. All of this needs energy, and each drop of water wasted is energy wasted, which adds up our carbon footprint. Therefore, you need to be very cautious about how you use water.
To reduce your water wastage, make it your common practice to turn off the tap while brushing your teeth, use buckets to wash your car instead of running water. Collect rainwater for your garden use and switch to more efficient washers and dryers.
- Transportation: If you can, buy an electric car and preferably opt for environmentally friendly brands. You can also opt for a vehicle that is less sporty but more efficient. However, if you cannot invest in electric or hybrid cars, you canalways cut down your fuel consumption by cycling or walking whenever you can. You will not only reduce air pollution, but it will also help you with the daily exercise and maintain a healthy lifestyle. Another way to reduce your carbon footprint is to choose public transport to commute within the city.
- Buy smart and responsibly: It is always beneficial to shop in your local farmer’s market. This gives your local economy a boost, and you are always guaranteed fresh seasonal produce. You should also buy smart, buy from brands that are not hurting the environment and are eco-friendly. Tip – look at how a company handles its packaging material; do they care enough about sustainable packaging? You can check which company has more green bonds and decide whether to buy from them or not. It will encourage other competitors to go green as well.
Creating an eco-friendly and living a greener life is not a feat to be achieved in a day. This transformation needs effort and patience; small steps that you take daily can make a monumental difference. Adopting greener habits can have a ripple effect as you influence and inspire other people to follow your suit.
