As summer approaches, keep Mother Nature in mind. Use these tips to make your summer more eco-friendly.
Don’t Go Disposable
Try to avoid disposable plates, napkins, utensils and cups as you cook out this summer. Each of these products require resources like trees and fossil fuels to create them. The environmental cost is significant compared to the single use you get out of these products. Instead, opt for reusable options. It will help you cut back on both waste and natural resource consumption.
Eco- Friendly Sunscreen
It’s so important to protect your skin during the hot summer months. There’s a good chance you’ll be spending more time outside which means you have to avoid those harmful UV rays. When you purchase sunscreen, look for non-toxic, zero waste options. Remember that a drop of chemical infused sunscreen can poison coral reefs for miles. When heading to the beach, be cognizant of the sunscreen you use.
Less AC
As the weather heats up, it can be tempting to crank your AC down low. However, keep in mind that these units not only consume a lot of energy, they also emit greenhouse gasses and leak hydrofluorocarbons into the air. Consider using other methods to keep your house cool. Keep your window shades down, keep ceiling fans running, and use air humidifiers.
Shop Locally
Shopping locally for your produce needs is a great way to keep things eco-friendly. This simple act will not only help you eat healthy by encouraging you to purchase fresh fruits and vegetables, it will also cut down on emissions and boost the local economy. Check out any farmer’s markets near you and support your local vendors.
Eco- Friendly Outdoor Cooking
Summer is the perfect time for cooking outdoors. Grills and smokers are used more than any other time of the year; however, there are methods of cooking that are better for the environment than others. An article written for trvst.world explains, “Outdoor cooking is one great thing about the holidays; it brings friends together. However, outdoor cooking can pollute fresh air if you don’t use environmentally friendly methods. Instead of charcoal or wood grills, use an electric or propane grill. You can also use pellet grills that use compressed wood scrap and emit less carbon.”
Recycle
Recycling is something you can do all year round; however, summer provides lots of opportunities. Keep your empty beverage cans and bottles (both plastic and glass) in order to recycle them. Additionally, save any food waste you might have and use it as compost for your garden. Remember you can also recycle paper, cardboard (cereal and snack boxes count as well), plastic grocery bags, foam cups and containers, and metals such as tin, aluminum and steel. Be mindful of these items before taking out your trash.
Simple changes can make your summer more eco-friendly. Use these tips to help make our planet a less toxic place to live.
