As humans, we have a responsibility to treat the planet we inhabit with kindness. In order to continue long, prosperous, healthy lives, we must live sustainable lives. I think the world sustainable scares some people. It does not mean you have to stop showering and only purchase items that are compostable. However, it does mean that you have to live in a way that can be sustained, that is to say, in a way that our planet can continue to support. Sustainable living can be incredibly easy. A few changes in your everyday routine can make a huge impact. Here are 11 easy ways to live more sustainably.
1. Wash your hair every other day.
This will make your showers shorter,and it will also make your hair healthier! Washing your hair too often can strip your hair of its natural oils. Cutting out washing your hair a few days a week will dramatically reduce the amount of time you spend in the shower, therefore limiting water waste.
2. Turn off the lights every time you leave a room.
This is an easy change to your daily routine that can conserve energy and reduce your electricity bill. Lighting accounts for about 15 percent of a home's total electricity use. Energy efficient bulbs such as LEDs or CFLs can also help to reduce electricity use.
3. Recycle!
I promise you, throwing your water bottle into the blue can instead of the black one will not kill you - I promise! It is so easy to be conscious of which can you throw your recyclables in, and this small change can make a huge impact. The EPA estimates that 75 percent of American waste could be recycled, but in reality, only about 30 percent of it actually gets recycled.
4. Drink tap water.
It physically pains me to buy bottled water. I am lucky enough to have access to clean, drinkable tap water, and I take advantage of this opportunity every chance I get. Drinking tap water eliminates the use of plastic bottles, which can be made of harmful petroleum-based materials, and most tap water has minerals that are good for you. If you are still scared of drinking tap water, or don't have access to clean tap, consider buying a water filter.
5. Use public transportation.
If you live somewhere that has easily accessible and reliable public transportation, use it! It is a great way to travel while reducing your use of fossil fuels. Although it is not always the most affordable option, it is a more sustainable choice when it comes to transportation. Even better than public transportation? Walking!
6. Carpool.
If you don't live somewhere that has easily accessible public transportation, carpooling is another great option. Think about it -- how often do you run into people who live near you at the grocery store or the mall? If you can coordinate group trips to the mall, school or the grocery store, it can greatly reduce your fossil fuel emissions and contribute to a more sustainable life!
7. Unplug electronics when they are not in use.
This is another sustainable option for cutting your electricity use and your electrical bill. And for those appliances that are a pain to unplug? Use a power strip that can easily be flipped on and off.
8. Wear clothes more than once before washing them.
Doing your laundry less can reduce your use of electricity and your water waste. In addition to this, your clothes will last longer because they won't get worn out as easily. This will reduce your material waste also.
9. Use natural household cleaners.
This simple option can create a healthier living environment by reducing the amount of chemical toxins used in the household. It will also cut down on costs as many natural cleaners last longer than the chemical options!
10. Support local businesses.
Local businesses are more likely to think sustainably as it is cost effective and it is trendy to be green. Supporting local businesses is a great way to support sustainability, as well as promote economic growth and job availability in your area!
11. Educate yourself!
The internet is a great place to learn how to live a more sustainable life. There are millions of articles and sources on the web that can teach you what you can do to live a more sustainable lifestyle. It is easy, cost effective, and makes the world we live in a better place!
