Millions of people around the globe show support for the planet every year at 8:30 pm on the last Saturday in March. They raise awareness about climate change and nature loss, the biggest threats to our homes. Earth hour is not just an hour for the planet. It’s a movement to ensure our future. Here are some tips to help you reduce your environmental impact.
SHOP LOCAL
Local businesses are a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. Buy local, sustainably sourced products. This is good for the environment and benefits the local economy by reducing packaging waste, creating local jobs, and reducing the distance the food travels to get to you. This is known as the “food miles.” Higher greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions will result if food is transported a greater distance. Local farmers and communities can be supported by buying local produce.
The Saturday Farmers Market at Brick Works in Toronto is great for local and seasonal food.
CONSERVE ENERGY
According to the Government of Canada, in 2019, the Energy sector emitted 589Mt or 81% of Canada’s total GHG emissions. This is due to Canada’s extreme temperatures, large land area, and dispersed population. Consider installing solar panels on your roof or using other renewable energy. It is possible to drastically reduce our energy consumption and save money by making even the smallest changes.
WHAT’S ON YOUR TRAVEL TABLE
Eco-friendly living is all about being mindful of what you eat. There are many ways to be greener, and it doesn’t have to mean eating salad. These simple tips will help you create a greener dining experience.
Growing your vegetables. is a great way to save money and reduce your carbon footprint. Windowsill boxes can brighten your view and filter the air entering your home. They also provide plenty of space to grow herbs and small vegetable plants.
Reduce your meat consumption. This can make a big difference in the environment. Even if you only eat red meat for two or three days per week, it can significantly reduce your carbon footprint.
Don’t waste food. According to the National Zero Waste Council’s research on household food waste in Canada, composting can prevent waste. You don’t have to throw away food. Instead, compost can be used to feed your garden and reduce waste. You can use a container from your kitchen to compost or make your own compost container with your family. You can compost grass clippings, tree leaves, and vegetable food scraps like coffee grounds, lettuce, tomato peels, banana peels, and avocado skins—black and white newspapers, printer paper, cardboard or wood shavings, sawdust, and black newspaper. Take full advantage of the Green Bin program within the GTA by doing your part. Click here to see a complete list of items that can and cannot be put in the Green Bin.
Reduce Waste
Reusable options are one of the easiest ways to go green. These are just a few of the many ways you can reduce the amount of waste you produce.
Reusable grocery bags: A reusable bag helps reduce the number of plastic bags thrown away. You can save a few dollars each time you go grocery shopping.
RECYCLE ALL THINGS YOU CAN
Recycling is a simple way to help the planet. If you are considering adopting an eco-friendly lifestyle, you may already recycle. Could you do more? You can recycle many things, including batteries, electronics, paper, and cars. It is possible to reclaim your item instead of throwing it out. Today’s products, particularly footwear and clothing, can last longer than ever. Donate used items to charity shops or friends who would give them a second chance.
TRANSPORTATION
Everyone needs to move. Many of us have stayed at home due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which has decreased traffic and increased pollution. Going green is possible even though restrictions are beginning to ease.
Flying is one of the most environmentally-damaging things you can do. Many people have begun to rediscover Ontario with the COVID-19 lockdowns. You can make a big difference in your carbon footprint by staying close to home and avoiding flying.
Depending on where your home is, you might need to rely on the car to get you there. To become more environmentally friendly, consider buying an eco-friendlier vehicle, like an electric or hybrid vehicle.
Co-workers can carpool once or twice weekly or use public transport if available. You can also walk or ride a bicycle if the weather is good. Reduced traffic can reduce pollution and greenhouse gas emissions.
USE ECO-FRIENDLY CLEANING PRODUCTS
Chemicals such as chlorine, Phosphates, and Nitrates are common in cleaning products that can harm the environment. You can reduce the environmental impact of cleaning products by choosing eco-friendly products. Attitude Living, Nature Clean, and Biovert are some of the best eco-friendly cleaning products.
PAPERLESS – GO PAPERLESS
You can save millions of trees annually by jumping on the digital bandwagon. You can view and manage your medical records online and receive and pay bills electronically. You can also use your smartphone’s calendar or computer to stay organized.
TURN IT OFF
Energy conservation is one of the most important things you can do to reduce your carbon footprint. It is a waste of energy to leave your electric appliances on standby. You don’t have to turn it off. You need to make sure your tech is as efficient as possible. You’ll save money, use less energy, and reduce energy consumption. For more ideas, click.
It is an excellent way of helping solve the most urgent environmental problems in the world, such as climate change and accessing nature.
ECO-FRIENDLY HOME IMPROVEMENTS
Insulated homes are more difficult to heat in colder weather and cool in hotter seasons. Insulating your home is an eco-friendly tip that will help you save money.
Fix it, don’t throw it
Repairing or fixing something is more environmentally friendly than throwing things away, although the latter may seem more manageable. You can access the information and tools (think YouTube) you need to fix almost anything on the internet. Your next DIY project awaits!
Whether you are trying to save money, help the environment, or just be green, each step towards eco-friendly living will make a difference. For more information about Earth Hour and other environmentally-friendly tips.