It's Earth Day. So what? I know there are a lot of people that feel kind of like that. But, just like dieting, this day is not so much about making a choice that doesn't feel natural to you to begin with. It's about making a change in your lifestyle. Here's a quick list of some ways to make a change today. Some take a little more effort than others, we'll admit that; but all were included because they are easy to implement. Choose one; choose all. What's important is making the choice to live mindfully.
- Replace paper coffee filters with a permanent filter that can be washed and reused.
- Use reusable rags instead of paper towels.
- If you do use paper towels, purchase a brand that lets you select the size of towel you use each time.
- Keep drip pans on your stove clean. Clean drip pans radiate more heat, so your stove doesn't have to work quite so hard.
- Purchase reusable water bottles and coffee cups and USE THEM!
- Use a water filtration system with your tap water instead of purchasing bottled water.
- Store leftovers and/or bulk food in glass or porcelain containers.
- Use rechargeable batteries.
- Purchase fresh produce instead of canned and use a local farmer's market when possible.
- Make your own baby food from your fresh produce. It tastes better and is better for baby, too!
- Choose soy or beeswax candles instead of petroleum-based paraffin wax candles.
- Wash most of your laundry in cold water. Most detergents today are designed to work just as well at this temperature.
- If possible, hang your clothes to dry.
- Install a dual flush upgrade to your toilet. Kits are available in most home improvement stores for around $20 and install in about 10 minutes.
- Plug the bathtub before turning on the water for your little one's bath.
- Use a washable shower curtain liner instead of a plastic disposable one.
- Use a razor with refillable blades.
- Choose body oils made from the seeds of fruits and nuts instead of baby oil. Baby oil is just scented mineral oil - a byproduct of gasoline production. ick
- Repair worn shoes instead of throwing them out and buying new ones. It's cheaper and you'll still have the shoes you love!
- Discover the joy of resale shops! You'll be amazed at the gems you can find from clothing to curtains, to holiday decor and everything in between!
- Install a programmable thermostat. It's easier than you think!
- Install an attic fan. They're easy to install and can lower the temp in your home significantly on hot days. You can even purchase a solar powered model!
- Don't throw out your magazines when you're done reading them. Share them with a friend!
- Purchase exercise equipment secondhand. It's cheaper and there are a lot of lonely treadmills out there just waiting for a new home.
- Unplug your appliances, when possible, when you leave on vacation.
- Quit using disposable pens. Find a pen you love and just refill the ink cartridge.
- Opt for e-billing and online financial statements.
- Use direct deposit if it's available to you.
- Pay your bills online.
- Don't throw away your old cell phone. E-cycle it or donate it to a charity (women's shelters are often in need of them)
- Set outside lights on timers or motion sensors so they are only used when you really need them.
- Plant native plants in your landscaping. They are better suited to your climate and less likely to die and need replacing.
- When possible, choose to plant drought resistant plants. Once established, they'll require less water.
- Grow something edible, whether it's a basil plant on your kitchen windowsill or a full vegetable garden.
- Use drip irrigation or soaker hoses to water your gardens. There will be less evaporation and no wasted water on leaves and foliage.
- Maintain your vehicle - regular oil changes, keeping the air filter clean, checking tire pressure - for optimum performance and longer life.
- Limit car idling time. An idling car emits 20 times more pollution than one traveling at 32 mph!
- Use mass transit or carpool.
- Learn a skill. Sewing, knitting, wood working, plumbing, electrical, etc. You can make gifts, repair items, build what you need, etc.
- Use em naturals products! They're all 100% natural, good for you, and good for Mother Nature, too!
No comments:
Post a Comment