As 2021 unfolds, we’re eager to embrace a fresh start, looking to set aside the challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic and return to a semblance of normalcy. It’s crucial for all of us to contribute to making the world a better place as we step into this new year, and one effective approach is by adopting a more sustainable lifestyle.
While the thought of decreasing our carbon footprint might seem overwhelming, it’s important to remember that, individually, we may feel powerless, but together, we can effect significant change. By making mindful ecological choices, you can initiate these changes today. Let’s explore some substantial adjustments you can implement as we enter the new year.
Revamp Your Habits
A great starting point for embracing a sustainable lifestyle is to scrutinize your daily habits and identify ways to lessen your negative impact on the environment. For instance, reducing your shower duration by a few minutes each day can save both water and money, or consider turning off the tap while lathering your hands during washing.
Reflect on the products you use in the bathroom. Many households rely on plastic toothbrushes that quickly end up in landfills. Instead, you might opt for a biodegradable toothbrush made from bamboo that will naturally decompose over time.
As you make the conscious choice to live sustainably, think about alternative products to replace your everyday items. If you’re like many, you likely consume numerous plastic water bottles weekly.
To combat this waste, switch to a reusable bottle, allowing you to refill it consistently and significantly reduce plastic usage. Additionally, rather than storing leftovers in plastic bags, invest in reusable containers or repurpose those takeout boxes from your favorite restaurants.
Another substantial change in your routine could involve leaving your car behind in favor of biking to work or running errands. Unlike motor vehicles that emit pollutants and consume fossil fuels, bicycles provide an eco-friendly mode of transportation.
Bicycling also uses less space on roadways; if more individuals opted for bikes, the demand for new roads and the resulting deforestation could decrease. Also, incorporating biking into your daily routine offers health benefits, potentially improving chronic conditions.
Transform Your Living Space
With your understanding of making positive ecological adjustments, continue this momentum by implementing small, impactful changes around your home.
The core of many sustainable tips revolves around minimizing electricity usage. The energy powering our homes and devices often contributes to air pollution through fossil fuel combustion.
Start with your lighting choices. Replace conventional incandescent bulbs with energy-efficient LEDs that not only provide superior lighting but also last significantly longer, conserving you money over time. Additionally, make a habit of turning off lights in unoccupied rooms and unplugging devices when not in use.
When doing laundry, opt for cold water to cut down on energy consumption from your water heater; cold water is often gentler on fabrics as well. After washing, consider air-drying your clothes outside instead of resorting to the dryer.
In the kitchen, favor smaller appliances, such as toasters, over the oven when possible to save energy. Always ensure your oven and refrigerator doors are tightly shut to prevent energy loss.
Finally, examine your thermostat settings and consider how much energy you waste by unnecessarily heating or cooling your space. Investing in a programmable thermostat can help regulate temperatures, allowing you to set it to 78 degrees in the summer and adjust it to rise while you’re away at work or school.
Rethink Your Shopping Habits
While many individuals acknowledge the importance of conserving energy at home, it’s vital to recognize that smarter choices can also be made while shopping.
At the very least, commit to eliminating single-use plastic bags from your routine, and instead, invest in several reusable fabric bags to take with you each time you shop. It’s worth noting that plastic bags can take hundreds of years to break down, making your switch to reusable bags a significant environmental contribution. Plus, your fabric bags are generally more durable.
As you gather your bags, consider where you shop and how those decisions can impact the environment. Instead of frequenting large chain stores, contemplate visiting local farmer’s markets for your groceries. Produce from these markets often contains fewer chemicals, and because it’s sourced locally, it doesn’t require long-distance transport by gas-guzzling vehicles.
While shopping, give thought to purchasing products made from hemp. The Farm Bill passed in 2018 allows for the cultivation of hemp, which is beneficial as it can be transformed into a range of products, including clothing, shoes, and food.
By choosing these items, you support farmers while also helping the environment, as hemp can absorb CO2 and rejuvenate the air quality. Purchasing these sustainable goods contributes positively to both economic growth and ecological health.
Clearly, adopting more sustainable practices in 2021 is not as daunting as it may appear. However, it requires dedication to actualize these changes. Start with these straightforward tips, and you might be surprised at how significantly you can benefit our planet.
