How You Can Make Small Changes to Help the Environment

Saving the planet and doing your bit for the environment are socially big issues right now, and everyone has a role to play. But have you ever thought that there is not much that you as one person can do to make an impact? If so, you would be interested to know that if everyone could make a few small changes, it would actually have a massive impact. Below are just a few examples of simple changes that will help to minimize the impact you have on the environment.

Have a Vegetarian Day Once a Week

You might not realize it, but the production of meat has a massive impact on the environment and is one of the main causes of climate change. Meat farming is responsible for the release of greenhouse gasses such as nitrous oxide, CO2, and methane, which all contribute to global warming. Meat produced in factory farms (industrial meat) is the biggest culprit; it is also the main cause of global deforestation as forests are being burned and torn down to make room for cattle grazing. If everyone were to have a vegetarian day even just once per week, it would have an enormous impact on the planet.

Switch to Rechargeable Batteries

Pale Blue Earth, the manufacturers of USB rechargeable batteries, recommend making the switch from single-use batteries wherever possible. Despite paying more for rechargeable batteries initially, the fact that they can often be charged at least two hundred times before you see any decrease in capacity means they are much more cost effective. Add to that the fact that the most commonly used single-use AA batteries are far less friendly to the environment than USB C rechargeable AA batteries and you are definitely on to a winner.

Use Reusable Bags and Cups

Reusable bags have been around for quite some time now thanks to levies introduced in many states and cities for single-use plastic bags. Reusing plastic in all forms, however, is great for the environment. This means that when you go to your favorite coffee shop for a takeout, it would be better for the planet if you brought your own cup. In fact, many coffee shops now offer reduced prices to those who use their own cups, so you can save money too. Consider the fact that plastic can take anywhere from 10 to 10,000 years to decompose and then think about the amount of single-use plastic we use. This might give you some idea of the impact it is having on the environment.

Buy Secondhand Clothes

There are some people who would never dream of buying secondhand clothes, but there are also many people who have closets full of clothes they have never even worn. That might be you. Buying secondhand clothing will reduce the impact that cheap man-made fabrics have on the planet when they are produced. If you don’t like the idea of buying secondhand clothes from a stranger, try clothes swapping with your family members or friends. And even if you do not want to wear secondhand clothing, consider selling or donating your old or unwanted items rather than just throwing them away.

Use Less Water

Water waste is a big problem in the U.S. with trillions of gallons being needlessly wasted every year. You can make a difference by checking your faucets for leaks, turning off the faucet when you are brushing your teeth, using a water-saving head on your shower, and using leftover drinking water for your plants.

These small changes will all help to minimize your impact on the environment.