Being more eco-friendly can have a huge range of benefits for both you and the planet. Being eco-friendly literally means ‘not environmentally harmful’ and promotes a green way of living that reduces waste and prevent water, noise, and air pollution. For the consumer, it can also save you money, improve your health and reduce your carbon footprint. But how can you live an eco-friendlier life?
1. Shop little and often
Food waste produces large amounts of methane and contributes to roughly one quarter of man-made greenhouses gases. By shopping for food in large quantities, we increase the amount of food waste we produce. You can help to reduce your food waste by shopping little and often and only for the things you need. Write a list of the things you need before you go to the shops so you can reduce buying more than you need.
2. Go green on the roads
Many people still think that electric cars are too far out of their budget. However, you can spread the cost of owning an EV by getting an electric car on finance. Owning an electric vehicle can also cost you less in the long run when compared to petrol and diesel vehicles. Electric cars reduce carbon emissions which contribute to harmful greenhouses gasses. Air pollution is extremely harmful to crops, animals, health, and nature.
3. Conserve energy
One of the easiest ways to reduce your carbon footprint is to conserve the energy in your home. You should always try to turn off lights when you leave a room and switch off or unplug devices. Leaving your electricals on standby uses unnecessary energy and it can be costing you money!
4. Eat less meat
Meat and dairy production are responsible for 14.5% of climate change gases. You can help to improve your carbon footprint by having a vegan day two to three times a week. Eating less meat reduces the impact that the industry has on the environment.
5. Recycle everything
Recycling helps to reduce the amount of waste we send to landfills. Recycling also helps to preserve natural resources, saves energy, and reduces pollution. At home, you should always recycle products that are eligible and make sure you are putting your waste in the correct bins. You can also check what you can recycle if you are unsure.
6. Switch to LED light bulbs
LED is a highly efficient source of energy and uses around 90% less energy than traditional bulbs. Is produces less heat, more light but at a lower cost. Having LED lights and light bulbs in your home can contribute to improving your carbon footprint.
7. Use reusable alternatives
Reusable alternatives are a great way to reduce the amount of single use plastic you throw away. Instead of buying a plastic water bottle, which typically end up in landfills and the ocean, you could invest a reusable one that you fill up on the go. You could also take your own coffee cup to your favourite coffee shop instead of suing their plastic cups. Many companies have also banned the use of plastic straws as there are millions of plastic straws which get thrown away each year in the UK. You can purchase reusable straws that are made out of metal which you can take with you when you go out!
Article Submitted By Community Writer