According to some of the latest data from the EPA, in 2018, the generation of municipal solid waste was over 292 million tons. That averages out to 4.9 pounds per person per day.
Making small changes, such as recycling, avoiding fast fashion and fast furniture, watching our water usage, and so on, can make a difference. We all need to do our part in caring for the environment.
There is a lot you can do, so here is why it matters and some tips on how to be eco-friendly.
Clean Air for Healthier Lives
Air pollution kills an estimated seven million people globally each year. Pollutants such as particulate matter, ozone, carbon monoxide, nitrogen dioxide, and sulfur dioxide are major health concerns. These pollutants can cause respiratory issues and diseases and increase the risk of death.
Clean air is a necessary part of healthy living, but we need to follow air quality guidelines to achieve anything. So what can you do?
Use more public transportation, or try walking or riding a bike to work if possible. Cars release carbon dioxide, a greenhouse gas emission.
You can also make sure you use ozone-friendly refrigerants in your air conditioner. Try using fans instead of air conditioners on mild summer days, as air conditioners also release harmful greenhouse gasses.
The Dangers of Plastic
In the US and the UK, more than 500 million plastic straws get tossed every day.
Plastic straws, food containers, bags, and other waste ends up in our landfills, our lakes, rivers, and our oceans. This plastic waste is dangerous to wildlife and marine life. Businesses aren’t the only ones that can take action.
Stop using plastic straws. Say you don’t need one when you dine out or use metal or paper straws instead.
Plastic bags are another common concern that’s harming our environment. Estimates vary, but it can take anywhere from 10-1,000 years to decompose in landfills. Plastic bottles can take 450 years or longer.
Switch to reusable bags and bottles instead to make a more environmentally-friendly choice.
Avoid Fast Fashion
The clothing industry is notorious for wasteful practices. Fast fashion giants neglect sustainability to make more and lower production costs. Textile production contributes more to climate change than both shipping and international aviation together.
While you can’t stop wearing clothes, you can make better choices. Choose recycled or vintage clothing instead to try and get the most use out of a garment possible.
Avoid disposable items as much as possible. Cloth diapers are an excellent way to become a zero-waste parent. Check out this article to find more info and tips.
You can pass these habits on to your children as well. Teach them how to reduce, reuse, and recycle!
Caring for the Environment Starts Here
Caring for the planet doesn’t have to be hard. Even small changes can make a big difference. Every choice you make matters, so start caring for the environment by following these eco-friendly tips.
For more ideas on how to go green, check out some of our other blog posts.
