What Can an Individual do to Help the Environment
(via: https://pixabay.com/photos/environmental-protection-326923/)
The impact of humans on the environment over the years has been staggering, and people want to do their part to change this. More than ever, people seem to want to and be willing to make sacrifices to save our planet. While many want to do their part, some simply don’t know what they can do.
If that is you, don’t worry, this article is here to help. We’re going to go over a couple of simple and relatively easy things that anyone can do to help the environment.
Reduce Their Usage of Energy
One of the first and best things you can do to help the environment is to reduce energy consumption. While you might not think things like running your A/C or furnace or keeping your lights on has any impact on the environment, you would be mistaken. Energy usage can lead to harmful emissions, use up limited natural resources, displace animals and contribute to climate change and disasters.
Simply by taking a few minutes every day to ensure lights are off when they should be and making sure your heat/AC isn’t running all day, you can do your part. In addition to reducing your energy usage, you should also look to reduce water when you can. This means taking quicker showers, not leaving the faucet running and being smart about running loads of laundry.
Not only will reducing things like energy and water usage help the planet, it could also help your wallet. You will save a lot on your monthly utility bills if you simply become a little more careful to reduce energy usage and make sure your lights are turned off.
Recycle
(via: https://pixabay.com/photos/recycle-reuse-recycling-recyclable-57136/)
Another thing that anyone can do is to recycle. It is incredibly simple to do, but still, very few people actually do it consistently. Most cities have a pretty good recycling program, so it is as easy as putting your recycling out with your garbage. A wide range of things can be recycled including paper, many types of plastic, aluminum cans, glass and more.
If you want a more comprehensive list, there are several different online resources that could help. Also, when out in public with some recyclable items, don’t simply toss them in the trash, and there is often a receptacle for recycling nearby. Doing this will drastically reduce the amount of waste that is dumped into landfills, oceans and other areas.
All things recycled will be reused and not tossed away, which is certainly good for the environment. In addition to recycling yourself, try to get your family and friends involved as well. The more people on board, the more effective the recycling will be.
Travel Responsibly
Another way to help the environment is to watch how you travel. When most people need to get from point A to point B, they will hop in their cars and drive. While this is fast and often pretty convenient, it isn’t’ the most sustainable. Instead, when possible, consider taking public transit, riding your bike or even walking.
Something like carpooling with your friends or family members can also be a step in the right direction. Anything that reduces the harmful emissions put out by vehicles is generally a good idea. Doing this can greatly reduce your carbon footprint, and potentially save you some money on gas at the same time.
Whether you reduce your energy usage, recycle when you’re able to or travel responsibly, there are a lot of things you as an individual can do to help the environment.
