Many think that helping the Earth takes a lot of time, effort and money. This isn’t true. There are many simple ways you can make an impact on a daily basis. Here are 20 of them to help you get started:
1. Recycle. It’s very easy to toss that soda can into the regular trash, but it only takes a couple of extra steps to put it into a recycle bin.
2. Cut up 6-pack rings. The rings, used to hold beer and soda, cause drownings and can strangle birds, seals and other creatures.
3. Insulate and vent your attic. In the summer, an unvented attic can become incredibly hot, requiring more energy to cool your home. In the winter, an uninsulated attic requires more heat.
4. Recycle your motor oil. All gas stations are required to take your used oil. Do Not dump your oil. It ends up polluting the ground water.
5. Build a wildlife refuge in your backyard. It can be something as simple as leaving a pile of twigs on the ground to something as elaborate as a butterfly garden. For more information on how to set up a wildlife refuge, google The National Wildlife Federation. My old house in NY was certified as a backyard sanctuary and so is my new one in WA!
6. Help eliminate pesticides. Use natural methods such as a strong stream of water to get rid of pests on your flowers. A solution of soap and water also works to create a barrier against infestation. Buy organically grown produce from local sources.
7. Replace your lawn (or a part of it) with drought resistant ground cover. If you must have a lawn, water in the early morning to prevent evaporation.
8. Plant native plants. They are more adapted to handle the climate in your area and will thrive on less water. Xeriscaping (landscaping in a water smart way) is becoming very popular. Learn more at RecycleMore.org.
9. Don’t buy styrofoam. It is one hundred percent NON biodegradable. In the ocean, the little pellets from styrofoam break off and are eaten by marine animals. Landfills are full of styrofoam, which will never break down.
10. Read labels. That can of household cleaner has instructions on how best to dispose of it. Follow those instructions and prevent ground water contamination.
11. Evaluate your trash. Are you throwing away half of what you eat? Buy only what you can use.
12. Plant a tree! The trees of the world are being cut down at a tremendous rate. The fewer trees, the less oxygen we have to breathe. Trees provide shade, requiring less energy to cool a house. Trees also help combat the greenhouse effect by consuming carbon dioxide.
13. Institute a paper recycling plan at work. Make sure the lights are off when you leave for the evening. Bring a coffee cup to work instead of using disposable cups.
14. Use rechargable batteries. Alkaline batteries are one percent mercury, a toxic material. If you must use them, find a place to recycle them.
15. Keep your car in good working order. Don’t haul more than you need (it wastes gas), make sure your tires are properly inflated, and keep your filters clean.
16. Turn off the water. It can waste 5 gallons of water EACH TIME you brush your teeth if you let it run while you brush!! It climbs to 10 gallons if you leave it on while you shave. Washing dishes? 30 gallons. Washing your car? 150 gallons (use a hose with a shut-off valve)! Turn off the water and save.
17. Clean or replace your air conditioner filters often.
18. Wait until you have a full load before using the dishwasher.
19. Use a warm wash and cold rinse in your washing machine to save energy.
20. Stop junk mail. If you do get junk mail, recycle it!
All it takes to begin to help the Earth is a simple bend at the waist. Pick up trash when you see it. Heck, you’ve just included a little exercise in the deed. Get out and experience nature. When you fall in love with a beach, it is easier to keep it clean. If you have any tips or questions, please add a comment.