There’s no escaping the truth that our actions have a huge impact on the planet. From floods to droughts, climate change is causing all sorts of damage to countries across the world. While at times the situation can seem hopeless, there is a ray of light: we can make a difference. There are a wide range of simple lifestyle changes we can implement that will help to protect the environment both for ourselves and for future generations. Here are four ideas to get you inspired.
Changes to your diet
The food we eat not only has an impact on our health; it also has an impact on the planet. For example, by choosing to follow a plant-based diet and cutting out meat and dairy, you’ll greatly reduce your carbon footprint. Doing so is easier than ever these days, as a quick online search for ‘vegetarian food near me’ will soon prove! In addition, you want to try and buy local and seasonal produce as much as possible, as it requires fewer resources to grow and then ship these to you. If you have the outdoor space for it, you could even have a go at growing your own vegetables!
Changes to how you travel
Ditching your car in favor of walking, cycling or taking public transport is another great way to go green. Alternatively, if those aren’t realistic options for you then you could try carpooling with a friend or colleague instead. Either way, you will be helping to cut down on both air pollution and traffic jams. Meanwhile, for longer journeys consider taking the train rather than flying if it’s a viable choice for reaching your destination. Don’t forget to bring a reusable water bottle with you when you travel, so that you don’t have to buy a plastic one.
Changes to your wardrobe
Many people are not aware of just how harmful the fast fashion industry is for the environment. Try to avoid buying lots of cheap clothes and then throwing them away when they rip – instead, opt for a smaller number of high-quality items which will last you for several years. Other top tips include shopping for secondhand clothes rather than always buying brand new ones and learning how to mend small tears or holes so that you can extend the lifetime of your clothing.
Changes to your home
There are plenty of steps you can take to make your home more environmentally friendly. For example:
- Use eco-friendly lightbulbs
- Switch off appliances at the wall or unplug them when not in use
- Only boil the amount of water you need in the kettle or saucepan
- Recycle as much of your household waste as possible
- Fit a device in the toilet cistern to reduce the amount of water used in each flush
- Get a low-flow shower head which uses less water without a drop in pressure
- Buy energy-efficient appliances
- Only use the dishwasher and washing machine when you have a full load
- Use the eco mode on your appliances where possible
- Wear an extra layer instead of turning up the heat
Infographic created by Dearborn Denim & Apparel – premium American made mens jeans
