In a society that relies so heavily on natural resources, the idea of conserving is daunting. Almost daily, I grapple with how much excess I live in and struggle with a feeling of overwhelming defeat, combined with a lack of ideas as to how to change my wasteful ways. We all deal with this on one level or another, asking ourselves questions like:
"How?"
"What kind of difference can one person really make?"
"I need 85 electronics on at once to keep me even remotely occupied."
The truth is, minor changes have the potential of making huge waves. I've listed five ways to conserve energy and resources that will not inconvenience your daily life (or your super-relaxing-extra-hot, long shower).
1. Natural Gas
What's up with that stuff anyway? Why should Californians care? As the residents of Porter Ranch can verify, Aliso Canyon sprung a gas leak in 2015 and have continued in their efforts to get that location shut down altogether. "Shut it all down!" is what resident protesters shout in an effort to protect the health and safety of everyone. This California winter, my boyfriend and I bought a blanket. Ever since, we haven't needed to turn our heater on during our weeknight ritual of curling up on the couch. If we do, we set it to 68. Recent sleep studies show that sleeping at a cooler temperature, closer to 65, makes for a more restful sleep. Also, your gas bill will be cheaper. Need I say more?
2. Sneaky Electricity
This one takes an extra step in the morning before leaving for work, but I mean that literally. Flip off power cords that hold your phone and computer charger, or maybe even a bedside lamp. I use my big toe to flip the switch in the morning, it's a combination of not being a morning person and finding it funny to use my toes for things. Bottom line: It saves electricity that you don't even think you're using. Make a habit of turning off lights when you leave the room and, if you're so inclined, swap out your bulbs for LED. I've recently instituted one candlelit dinner per month in an effort to conserve and get creative while doing it!
3. R-E-C-Y-C-L-E
This sounds easy, but I recently admitted that I knew very little about what can and can't be recycled. Things like coffee grounds, fruits, and veggies are compostable and should be set aside in a small tin for the green bin. This is the most useful site I've found for what goes in the blue bin and what goes in the green bin: Recycle by City.
4. Reusable Items
Buy a water bottle and coffee thermos. Invest a few dollars to save hundreds. I use Klean Kanteen for water and coffee so I have the necessary high dose of caffeine any student requires throughout the day. Bring canvas bags to grocery stores to cut down on paper and plastic, and save the pesky 10 cent fee.
5. Get Involved & Stay Informed
You don't have to pick up trash to stay connected to your environment. Here are some Los Angeles-based organizations that can really use all the money you saved on coffee. Many of them also have volunteer opportunities if your schedule allows:
The Los Angeles Audubon has great volunteer opportunities and a donation tab.
LA Storm Water is an informative site with volunteer opportunities and general information about what you can do from home to help conserve and cut back on water consumption.
LA Water Keeper is interested in protecting the Santa Monica Bay and San Pedro Bay.
Plus, there are countless other available programs that are readily accessible with a little Internet research.
Final Thoughts:
Go outside! While the recent rain has not permanently resolved the drought we've suffered, it has certainly transformed the landscape back to a state we haven't seen in years. The greenery is stunning, the parks are filled and the sun is met by a crisp cloudy sky. Enjoy it, breathe it, live it!
