Earth Day Is April 22nd. It's a day for celebrating Planet Earth and bringing awareness to the issues that threaten it including climate change, greenhouse gas emissions, deforestation, overconsumption, pollution, and pesticides....
We want to become aware of our personal impact on the planet and implementing simple changes that will make a difference in helping support Mother Earth.
Here are our every day 10 EARTH-FRIENDLY Tips::
1. Be mindful of your water usage. Reduce water waste by turning off the water when you are brushing your teeth, washing your face and heating up the shower for extended periods of time before hopping in.
2. Unplug! The average Canadian home has 25+ electronic devices and appliances which, when plugged in, continue to draw power even if they are off. This 'phantom power' account for 10% of your home's energy use and can cost $150 per year in electricity.
3. Avoid single-use plastic bags, straws, takeout containers, cutlery... which do not break down. These pollutants end up in our waterways posing a direct threat to marine life. Instead, use more eco-friendly, biodegradable alternatives including reusable cloth bags and paper straws.
4. Contact your bank and utility companies to switch from paper correspondence to online banking and bill payment in order to minimize paper waste.
5. If you drive to school or work, consider carpooling, using public transportation or better yet, walking or cycling.
6. There is no need to keep our water heater at 60°C. To conserve energy and save money, turn it down to 49°C.
7. Invest in indoor plants to not only beautify your office or home but also purify the air. Many indoor plants including Boston fern, aloe vera, bamboo palm, dracaena, ficus and spider plants will remove formaldehyde, benzene and carbon monoxide from the air.
8. Bottled water is expensive and generates an enormous amount of plastic waste. Avoid buying bottled water and invest in a water filter and a glass, copper or BPA-free reusable water bottle instead.
9. Meat and dairy production is taxing on the environment. Reduce your food print by cutting down on red meats such as beef and lamb, incorporate weekly meatless meals, try nut dairy-free milk, shop local and organic.
10. Minimize waste and garbage by sourcing biodegradable, recyclable versions of or alternatives to aluminum foil, coffee filters, paper towels and ziplock bags.
Which of these tips have you already implemented and which seem simple enough to commit to on Earth Day?