There are countless people, businesses, and communities who want to do more to conserve and protect our natural resources but don’t know where to start by becoming more environmentally friendly.
Understanding what makes every aspect of our world part of the process of transforming and conserving our resources and learning how to start making an impact is the first thing you need to learn.
A good way is to save water, drive less and walk more, use less energy, buy recycled products, eat local vegetables, join environmental groups to fight air pollution, reduce waste, plant more trees, and plant even more.
Here are some ways you can make a difference to the people around you.
Use reusable bags:
Discarded plastic grocery bags end up in landfills or other parts of the environment. They may strangle animals trapped in them or think they are food. The bags also take time to decompose. Whether you’re shopping for groceries, clothes, or books, use reusable bags. This reduces litter and prevents animals from sticking to it. There are even some stores that offer discounts on reusable bags!
These bags are also useful for things other than shopping.
Print as little as you need:
We all have teachers who want us to have a copy of every reading when we get to class or professors who want a 10-page paper copy expected next week. They’re fine, but don’t seem to understand that using so much paper is bad for the environment.
What can you do? Ask your teacher if you can bring a laptop or e-reader to class so you can download and read from there. Otherwise, print both sides of the sheet to reduce paper consumption.
Recycling:
“The first step toward success is taken when you refuse to be a captive of the environment in which you first find yourself” said Mark Caine.
Recycling is very easy, but a lot of people don’t do it. Many disposal companies offer recycling services, so check with the company you use to see if they can help you get started! It’s as easy as picking up the trash can and taking it out with your trash can for free!
Also, check with your RA to see if recycling facilities are available where you live.
Use reusable containers:
Instead of buying individually packaged drinks, consider buying large containers of the drinks you want and buying reusable water bottles. This not only protects the environment but also saves money by buying large containers.
Many campuses provide fountains for drinking as well as refilling reusable water bottles. Use this fountain throughout the day while drinking the original drink.
For this reason, many restaurants offer reusable beverage containers. If you frequently go to certain places, consider purchasing one of these bins to minimize waste.
Raymond Stone Toronto is an entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist with extensive experience in healthcare and a passion for wildlife conservation. Raymond Stone Toronto currently works as a consultant, using 30 years of experience to aid healthcare providers looking to grow in the Canadian marketplace.
