A Little Time and a Keyboard: Simple changes for Earth Day {we can all make a difference}

Simple changes for Earth Day {we can all make a difference}

Thursday, April 18, 2013

Earth Day is quickly approaching! With all of the fun Earth Day activities this weekend, we all have the environment and our impact on our minds. Everyone can make a change to decrease their impact. These changes do not have to be grand, even small ones help! Here are some ideas (and the kiddos can get involved, too!):
  • Turn off lights if you are not using them! (Simple, simple--yet we always forget!)
  • Appoint someone to make sure the lights are off before leaving the house. I don't know how many times we have left the house with a stray light on! If someone is in charge, they are more likely to remember.
  • Think out path for errands before you go out. You can cut out extra trips by planning ahead.
  • Keep grocery and necessity lists to shop more efficiently, thereby eliminating unnecessary trips.
  • Use reusable bags for shopping. Keep some in your car. They should be washable so that you can wash them to prevent a bacteria haven.

  • Verify the items your curbside recycling will take. Often, they accept more items than you think.
  • See if there are any places accepting unique recyclables along your normal paths. For example, Whole Foods Markets will take corks for recycling. Since we go to Whole Foods most weeks, this is very convenient and we do not use any extra gas to recycle the corks.
  • Capitalize on neighborhood recycling efforts this month. Often, you will find drop offs for electronics, paints, chemicals and more. If you find one of these events, you will find it much easier to handle these items!
  • Some schools have recycling events. Participate! My daughter's school accepts batteries, cell phones, glasses and more for recycling.
  • Pay attention to product origins. Buy more products made in America.  Products from overseas consume more energy getting to market. Also, products made in America have to follow a strict set of environmental guidelines.
  • Salvage used gift wrapping materials. You would be surprised how many odd pieces of ribbon, string and even wrapping paper you can use in other projects.
  • Many stores accept plastic bags for recycling. Keep yours by the door so you can easily bring them in. If they are tucked away, you may forget.

Making little changes in our everyday lives can have an impact on the environment. Plus, kids often help in these tasks. As children learn about the world, they are very passionate about helping making the world a better place. Let them use that energy to make to help you make some changes!


1 comment

  1. I agree with your list.
    I'm stopping by and following along via the linkin' with my ladies hop. ;)
    Maria
    www.thislifesbeautifulmoments.com

    ReplyDelete