Reduce, Reuse and Recycle

 One of the biggest ways we can protect our planet is by reducing what we buy, reusing items that we own and recycling what cannot be reused. You will be helping the environment if we reuse a product instead of recycling it. Did you know it takes around “1,800 gallons of water to grow enough cotton to produce just one pair of regular blue jeans,” according to Tree Hugger. The next time you plan to buy clothes ask yourself if you really need it and if you could wear something else in your closet. 

Cherish the Planet by Using Cloths for Cleaning Instead of Paper Towels

Instead of running to the store for paper towels for spring cleaning, why not use the old t-shirts you were looking to get rid of? Make your own cleaning rags from old clothing and reduce the amount of paper wasted worldwide.

Borrow Instead of Buying or Shop Secondhand

It’s really easy to run out and buy brand new things that we can easily borrow or get secondhand. For example, you can borrow books from the library or borrow once a year item, like a “tool to clean out your gutter” from a neighbor or friend. Or if you want to own certain items, check out secondhand stores where you can save money.

Skip Plastic Bags and Use Reusable Bags

Forgo the plastic bags by bringing your own reusable bags the next time you’re at the grocery store. Sine, the petroleum-based plastic used to make the bags aren’t biodegradable, it will surely outlive us all in the landfills.  According to Earth Day only “1 percent of plastic bags are returned for recycling.” That means, that the average family only recycles 15 bags a year; the rest end up in landfills. So, if you’re concerned about our planet’s long-term health reduce plastic bags.

Enroll in Online Statements and Billing

Many utility providers, cable companies, and financial institutions gives us the option for paperless statements. Reducing paper can help the environment by reducing the number of trees that are cut down.

Avoid Catalogs by Browsing and Shopping Online

When you do need to use paper, try to print on both sides. This will save one piece of paper for every two pages you’d normally print, which can add up over time. 

Avoid Catalogs by Browsing and Shopping Online

Save some trees and avoid carbon emissions by opting out of paper catalogs and just browsing online instead. “The average American tosses about 41 pounds of junk mail every year,” according to The Sightline Institute .You can cut that weight by removing yourself from direct-mailing lists.
 

If you feel that you’re just one person, and that you cannot make a difference, think again. Your very own reduction of waste alone can have a positive impact on the environment.  

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