(PHOTO SOURCE: GI2C.ORG)
We all care about the environment and strive to be greener. But because things that we use everyday are often considered ecologically destructive, it can feel like a be greener lifestyle would be impossible or impractical to adopt.
But that’s not necessarily true. Here are six easy ways to be greener that cost little, but could make a big difference:
1. DRINK FAUCET WATER
The pollution of plastics is horrible for the environment. Only 5 percent of the plastic that we use is ever recovered. If you’re like me and you think that bottled water tastes better, don’t worry – use a purifying water filter with your faucet and you won’t be able to tell the difference.
2. BRUSH YOUR TEETH WITH THE WATER OFF
I don’t think that I’m alone in having forgotten to do this, and it applies to shaving and hand-washing, too. Most people brush their teeth twice a day; can you imagine how much water we collectively waste by leaving the sink on? And like numbers three and five on this list, turning the water off is good for your wallet.
3. CONSERVE ENERGY
You’ve probably heard this one before, it deserves repeating: according to Sustainable Baby Steps, energy is the source of 90% of greenhouse gases and 23.1 billion tons of carbon dioxide. And aside from helping you be greener, conserving energy will save you some money.
4. USE THE DISHWASHER
Paige Greenfield at Prevention writes: “Dishwashers use half the energy, one-sixth of the water, and less soap than hand-washing dishes, reports a German study.” Citing EPA figures, Greenfield explains that opting for the dishwasher can yearly save 100 pounds of carbon dioxide.
5. BIKE OR WALK TO WORK
Obviously, a bike or walk commute is easier on the environment than the most popular methods of transportation. But it’s also good cardio, and it’s much cheaper than driving or taking the train daily.
6. EAT LESS MEAT
You don’t have to become a vegetarian, but being a little less carnivorous is an easy way to be greener. And it’s worth considering: beef may be more ecologically destructive than cars.
