With Earth Day celebrated in April, it can be a great month to pause and reflect on you and your family’s impact on our planet. There are many ways we can show up for our planet in the way we live. While some of these changes may seem small and insignificant, they really can add up over time. In fact, small everyday changes not only add up, but they help us feel as if we are doing something to positively contribute to climate solutions.
If you are looking for some simple changes you can start today by considering:
Walk when you can. Try to avoid unnecessary trips in the car or take public transport when available. Carpooling can also help reduce your carbon footprint.
Avoid single-use plastics. This may be tricky but pay attention to the products you choose with unnecessary plastic packaging. Take reusable bags when shopping and reuse produce bags when you can. Purchase reusable silverware and straws to use when on the go instead of taking disposable items when you must be on the go.
Consider additional ways to be sustainable at home. Look for ways to reduce what goes into the trash. Everyday items that are thrown away can add up. Evaluate what these may be in your home and find washable, reusable, or less-waste alternatives. For example, can a plastic storage bag be washed and used again? Can an old t-shirt be repurposed as a rag to reduce paper towels?
Is there a change you can begin today? Get your family involved to make your change more lasting. Starting small and involving your family helps ensure your changes will last longer. A fun way to involve your family is to calculate your carbon footprint. This takes less than five minutes and can help you identify ways to improve. Good luck in your journey to be more sustainable!
Written by: Alisha Barton, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Extension Miami County.
Reviewed by: Amanda Bohlen, Family and Consumer Sciences Educator, Ohio State University Washington County.
Sources:
Environmental Protection Agency. (2016, September 29). What you can do: At home. EPA. Retrieved April 25, 2023, from https://19january2017snapshot.epa.gov/climatechange/what-you-can-do-home_.html
How many planets does it take to sustain your lifestyle? Ecological Footprint Calculator. (n.d.). Retrieved April 25, 2023, from https://www.footprintcalculator.org/home/en
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Thank you for the suggestions.