Zero Waste Tips
Posey McKinney
According to the EPA, solid waste landfills are the third-largest source of human related methane emissions in the U.S. Methane gas contributes greatly to global climate change. Making small changes in your lifestyle is a simple, effective way to live a more sustainable life.
1. Grow your own food
Starting your own garden is a way to reduce your carbon footprint. Growing your own food helps cut down on plastic and glass waste and reduces carbon emissions from food transportation.
2. Start a compost
Composting is a foolproof practice for reducing food wastes and living sustainably. It’s a perfect way to add nutrients back into the soil to nurture fruits and vegetables in that garden that you’re starting.
3. Use Cold Water
Water heaters account for 20% of your home’s energy use. Washing your clothes on cold can reduce your energy consumption, increase the life of your clothes and reduce over 860 lbs. of CO2 emissions a year. Moreover, cold showers are beneficial for your skin and can boost your immune system and metabolism.
4. Stop using single waste products
Opt for cloth grocery bags when shopping and glass containers that can be washed and reused.
5. Unplug your devices
Most electronics still use energy even when not being used. Unplugging your devices when not using them can significantly reduce your energy usage and waste.
6. Use less water
Reducing your water usage even slightly can reduce carbon and greenhouse gas emissions. Take shorter showers, turn off the faucet in between rinses when brushing your teeth. Only run your dishwasher when it’s full and don’t rinse your dishes before loading them into the dishwasher,
7. Use Eco-Friendly cleaning products (or make your own)
Traditional cleaning products contain chemicals which can be harmful and can biodegrade further into hazardous chemicals. Opt for products that use “green” ingredients, offer refills, and/or use plastic-free shipping to cut down on environmental impact. You can also make an at home cleaner using such staples as vinegar, baking soda, and dish soap.