Do you ever find yourself thinking something along the lines of, “I’d like to be more environmentally friendly but I just don’t have the time?” Maybe you think that recycling and sorting wastes and all the other things that go into being a “greener” person would just be too much of a commitment? What if I told you I came up with certain things you could do to be more eco-friendly before you even leave your house in the morning? Read on for some quick, simple steps to making the planet a little bit of a better place.
1. Unplug your phone and / or computer charger. There is no reason to leave these things plugged in during the day. In fact, doing so can cause energy to be wasted by the outlet attempting to charge something that either doesn’t need it or isn’t even attached to the charger.
2. Shorten your shower. There are several types of shower timers you can use to help you ensure that you’re not lingering. I know this can be especially difficult in the cold winter months but the water you can save will make a difference. Install a low-flow showerhead. Make sure you have a faucet aerator on each faucet. These inexpensive appliances conserve heat and water, while keeping water pressure high. They don’t cost much, and the water and energy savings can quickly pay back your investment.
3. Unplug your blow-dryer, flat iron, and curling iron. Much like computer and phone chargers, leaving these items plugged in (even if they are powered off) can waste energy during the day.
4. Better yet, let your hair air dry. Eliminate the use of blow-dryers and other styling tools and let your hair be natural. Not only will it save energy, it’s better for your hair.
5. Eat breakfast. Many of us are prone to eating breakfast on the go and that often means we’re eating something prepackaged. Cut down on the waste you create by either packing breakfast foods in reusable containers or simply eating at home.
6. Use a reusable water bottle or coffee cup. This will save you money and waste. Starbucks will even make your drink for you in your favorite reusable cup if you’d rather not make your own.
7. Is it summer or winter? If it’s summer, consider closing your sun facing blinds to help keep your home cooler. If it’s winter consider opening them so the warm sun can filter through.
8. Make sure to turn off all the lights before you leave your house. This one is second nature to some of us but it’s always good to remember.
9. If you can, walk to work or share a car to save fuel.
10. Use a water filter to purify tap water instead of buying bottled water. Not only is bottled water expensive, but it generates large amounts of container waste. Bring a reusable water bottle, preferably aluminum rather than plastic, with you when traveling or at work.
11. Water plants in the Morning. Mornings tend to be cool and without strong winds, so the amount of water lost to evaporation is much less than during the middle of the day. Yes, evenings are typically similar, but if plants stay damp overnight they are more likely to be damaged by fungal and bacterial diseases.
See. Not much right!!
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