7 super simple ways you can help the environment

Saving the planet may sound like an overwhelming task — and in a lot of ways it is — but we can all do our part. There are actually plenty of easy, eco-friendly habits you can adopt that don’t require a ton of effort (or money). Sound good? We think so: that’s why we’ve collected seven simple changes you can make to help the environment and preserve this big beautiful world. After all, we’re all in this together! Ahead, check out our go-green guide for some super simple tips.

  1. Turn your computer off overnight. By turning your laptop off while you snooze, you not only reduce the amount of power being used, you may just save money. Those are bucks that will go back into your pocket (rather than the energy company’s).
  2. Recycle your used technology. Over 100 million cell phones get thrown away each year and when they end up in the landfill, toxins from the batteries leak into the soil and pollute the ground. Try donating/recycling your old phone by looking up an ecoATM kiosk drop off near you or a Staples, and find out how to recycle batteries at https://www.call2recycle.org/.
  3. Switch to a reusable water bottle. Whether you keep one at your desk or take it to the gym, there are so many reusable bottle options (that are just way cuter than single-use plastic bottles, anyway). Hydrating and helping at the same time? Yes please.
  4. And get a reusable shopping bag, too. Instead of asking for more plastic when you go shopping, store some canvas bags in your car that can hold your haul. Or just skip the bag entirely for small purchases (like lipstick, etc.) — and stash them in your purse.
  5. Try going meatless one day a week. Swapping the hamburger for a veggie burger even just once a week could reduce greenhouse gas emissions and save water — as meat production is considered very resource-intensive. 
  6. Skip the straw. Straws and stirrers that make their way into the ocean are dangerous to wildlife. According to the Ocean Conservancy, straws are among the top ten items collected during the organization’s coastal cleanup every year (more than 9 million over 30+ years).
  7. Turn off the tap. The small things add up! Shutting the water off while you’re brushing your teeth could save up to four gallons a minute — or 200 gallons of water a month.  

How are you helping the environment? Tell us in the comments!

xo