As we learn more and more about the environment we live in, scientists and environmental industry professionals are finding more ways for individuals to reduce their carbon footprints and live more sustainable lifestyles. By doing these things, the earth will be a safer and cleaner place for everyone to live in. Living a sustainable lifestyle is important, and perhaps you and your family would like to jump on the bandwagon. Here are 6 ways your family can live more sustainably and eco-friendly.
1. Grow Your Own Food in a Garden
The best time to start your very own family garden is in late winter and early spring. This allows for veggies and plants to grow and be ready for consumption in the spring. Having your own garden allows for fresh foods to be consumed, and it also allows you to decide how they grow, which should include natural fertilizers rather than hazardous chemicals. The United States agrochemical expenditures at the producer level totaled nearly $9 billion in 2012. If more people plant their own gardens, the number of hazardous chemicals polluting our environment would be reduced.
2. Shop Second-Hand
When you take your kids to go clothes shopping, whether it be for a new winter coat, winter boots to play outside, or snow gear during the winter months or for t-shirts and shorts in the summer, consider shopping second-hand. It is a cheaper option, which is especially helpful when it comes to buying children’s clothing and shoes that will be grown out of quickly. It is also a sustainable option. The clothing industry produces what is demanded, and many resources are subsequently wasted. By shopping second-hand, you’re helping to reduce wastes and pollution. Many people throw away old clothes; instead, donate old clothes, and buy from second-hand stores for clothes, CDs, movies, and other trinkets that can make fun additions to your closet and home at a cheaper price.
3. Conserve Energy in Your Home
To conserve energy in your home, be sure your home is properly insulated. On average, 10-25% of a home’s heat escapes through its windows. Window and roof insulation will ensure that your heat is not escaping, as this will cause you to turn your heat up and waste energy, too. To further conserve energy, dress for the weather, keep the thermostat at a reasonable, constant temperature, unplug electronics when they’re not being used, and turn the lights off when you’re leaving a room.
4. Make Recycling a Habit
Even if you have a recycling bin in your home, your family may not use it if it’s not visible and encouraged in your home. Keep a recycling bin handy in your kitchen so recyclable plastic and cardboard are disposed of properly. Go over which products can be recycled, and explain how to properly clean them so they can be placed in the recycling bin, too. If you have old appliances like an air conditioning unit that you don’t have use anymore, then you may consider taking your unit to an Air Conditioning Recycling service. Make recycling a habit in your home.
5. Conserve Water in a Number of Ways
Conserving water is another way to live a more sustainable lifestyle, and it’s easy to apply in your own home. Taking shorter showers and baths, turning off the water when brushing your teeth and shaving, having water treatment and water softening services, and utilizing a water filter rather than plastic water bottles are a few ways to conserve water in your home on a daily basis. The average family in the United States does eight to 10 loads of laundry each week, and dishwashers are often used daily. Only do loads in washers and dishwashers if they’re full, and wash clothes in cold water whenever possible. Make sure to regularly maintain it and see if you may need washer or dryer repair. Additionally, be sure to check for leaks in pipes, faucets, and toilets so water isn’t being wasted.
6. Drive Less Often
Vehicles are responsible for 38% of total climate change emissions. If you’re going somewhere that is a walkable distance, consider walking or biking instead. Utilize carpools with other parents to transport your children back and forth from sports practices and other extracurricular activities. Think ahead and run errands all at once rather than taking several unnecessary trips. If you must drive often, consider switching to a smaller, more environmentally-friendly vehicle.
Living a more sustainable lifestyle is simultaneously helping the planet and its inhabitants. By taking action to conserve energy and water, recycling, and reducing wastes, pollution, and the emission of hazardous chemicals and gases, your family is helping the environment in which we live. Consider how you’re currently living and the changes you can make to live more sustainably and eco-friendly. Take steps now to help our planet for the future.
