Conserving Energy and Water
Conserving energy is one of the easiest ways to live sustainably, and it’s mutually beneficial for the environment as well as your wallet. So take note of some of these tips for conserving energy.
- Unplug electronics and appliances when you aren’t using them.
- Turn off electronics when leaving the room for more than 15 minutes.
- Invest in high-efficiency appliances — dishwasher, washing machine, toilet, shower head. They use a lot less water and energy and will save you money in the long run. Look for the WaterSense label on your appliances.
- Purchase compact fluorescent lightbulbs (CFLs) or light emitting diodes (LEDs) as opposed to conventional incandescent bulbs (though some incandescents are energy-saving, just read the label).
Avoiding Plastics
Plastic is terrible for the environment because it takes forever to break down. Every single bit of plastic that has been produced will be on this planet for thousands of years. Plastics have also been linked to negative health effects as well as major carbon emissions during the production process.
- Instead of purchasing water bottles, buy a reusable water bottle that you can take to class, work, or anywhere else you may need to go. These run anywhere from $5-$20, and many universities and workplaces will give them out for free as a marketing tool.
- Invest in some reusable grocery bags. They’re $1 at most grocery stores, and again, you can often get them for free. I personally have about 6 medium to large sized bags, all of which I got for free.
- If you notice that a product has a lot of plastic packaging, look for an alternative.
- Check for the recycle symbols on your products and recycle them if possible. If you have a pile of grocery bags built up, don’t throw them out. Instead, bring them to the grocery store during your next visit; they usually have a plastic bag recycle bin (plastic bags cannot be recycled in your home bin).
Cut Your Emissions
Reducing your carbon footprint doesn’t have to be difficult, but it can make a big difference. Try a couple of these tips to reduce your ecological impact.
- Nice day? Reasonable commute? Ride your bike, take public transportation, walk if it’s not too far.
- If your commute is too far, set up a carpool with others commuting to the same area.
- Keep it local. Buy local products because they don’t travel as far, buy at your local store because you don’t travel as far, and find some fun activities locally. Not only does it eliminate transportation; it builds community, economy, and overall growth.
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