With everything that’s going on in the world, you can’t forget to take care of the planet. Even if you’re constantly in your home, you can still form some important habits to preserve the planet. Everything works better when all is in balance, so you have to make sure you’re taking steps to balance out your use of nature. There are tons of lifestyle changes to protect the environment, and we’ve listed a few favorites below—check them out!
Bring Reusable Bags When Shopping
Make sure to take reusable bags when you go grocery shopping. If you’re worried about spreading germs, just wash the bags before and after use, and then be sure to wash any produce before eating it. Bringing reusable bags to the store is a small way to make a big impact on plastic production—it means fewer bags will be thrown into landfills. If you tend to forget to bring your bags, make sure you keep a few in your car or close to the items you typically grab when you’re heading out.
Start a Garden
It’s time to start growing your own food! As the warmer months roll around, step out to your backyard and get to digging. You can order seeds online if you can’t make it to the store, but once you have the seeds you want, start planting. This will be better for your own pocket, but it’s also a huge environmental benefit. Plants release oxygen into the atmosphere, replenish soil, and so much more. If you don’t think you’re able to grow your own, you can at least shop for produce locally.
Recycle More Than Plastic
Plastic and paper aren’t the only things you can recycle. In fact, the sooner you get into the habit of recycling other items, the better for the environment. One of the best things you can add to your recycling routine is your clothing. As you clean out your closets for spring, don’t throw clothes you no longer wear in the garbage—recycle them instead. Textile waste is a huge environmental problem, so follow green recycling initiatives and recycle your old clothes.
Walk as Much as Possible
Environmentalists have been saying for quite some time that reducing the number of cars on the road will reduce greenhouse gases. If you’re able to, walk, bike, or take public transit to work and while you’re running errands. If you’ve already cut down on your driving time, then think about reducing your red meat intake—the meat industry also plays a significant role in the amount of greenhouse gases released into the world.