We all want to create a better world for future generations, but if something seems too difficult or overwhelming, sometimes we just don’t do it. I do that all the time. If a task is too daunting, a mental barrier automatically goes up and my body goes into resistance mode. Making things harder than they should be is a great way to set ourselves up for failure. (This post contains affiliate links)
I consider myself to be an actively semi-green person. I am realistic about what I can, and can’t do in order to protect our environment. And I truly believe that every little bit helps. It is not up to one person to save the world, but if we all do just a couple things here are there, it sure can’t hurt… right?
All of these tips may not work for everyone, and that’s fine. But try to find a couple things that work for you and are easy to accomplish, then you can feel good knowing you’re doing your part:
8 Easy Ways to be a Little More Green
1) COMPOST
Even if you don’t do the composting yourself, most residences have a Green Bin that’s included in the curbside trash pick up. We have a compost pile in our back yard off and on. But even if you just put your compost in the Green Bin, it keeps that much more out of the landfills and is made into compost for someone else.
We use a great stainless steel countertop version that we put fruit and veggie scraps in (we don’t yet, but should really start putting used coffee grounds in it as well). Bonus benefit, it keeps the trash from getting stinky from all the banana peels my husband uses for smoothies.
2) TRADE IN THE PLASTIC KIDS PLATES
It’s so hard because they’re so damned cute! I was such a sucker for the seasonal varieties at Target, but read here why I stopped using them and found the best silicone kids dishes ever
3) TURN YOUR CAR OFF WHILE IDLING
I’m pretty bad at practicing what I preach on this one. Especially in the drive through during the heat of the summer or cold of the winter. It’s such an easy thing to do though. It doesn’t cost anything. In fact it saves you gas. Just try it!
4) CHANGE YOUR LIGHT BULBS OUT
I have been resisting this one for a long time. There’s something about that warm glow of incandescent light bulbs that’s hard to let go of. I’m finally starting to come around to the LED bulbs though (don’t tell my husband). They use so much less energy, and last FOREVER.
5) USE RAGS INSTEAD OF PAPER TOWELS
This is another one that actually saves you money. In fact, here are four more things you can buy that will save you money and the environment.
6) USE REUSABLE SNACK BAGS INSTEAD OF PLASTIC
I have a VERY minimal knowledge of sewing, but I make a bunch of these reusable snack bags in under an hour and use them for snacks, sandwiches, bandaids, hair ties, basically anything I would put in a ziploc bag.
7) USE A WATER BOTTLE INSTEAD OF BOTTLED WATER
I know, it’s so convenient to just grab a cold bottle of water out of the fridge. Filling a reusable water bottle is just as easy though. Plus, haven’t you seen those commercials about all the empty plastic water bottles that circle the earth? Scary!
8) REUSABLE GROCERY BAGS AND PRODUCE BAGS
It seems we’ve all been using reusable grocery bags for years now… right? And if not, then now is the perfect time to start (just don’t forget them in your car). I’ve started seeing more and more reusable produce bags around as well. GENIUS!
Did I miss any easy ones? What do you do that’s simple for everyone?
Other posts you may enjoy:
8 More Ways to Be a Little More Green
6 Awesome Ways to Celebrate Earth Day Every Day
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