Being environmentally friendly doesn’t have to be difficult. It’s the little things we do everyday that count. Here are ten things you can do today to help the environment and go green.
1) Bike, walk, take public transit or carpool to school
Encourage your family to cut down their carbon footprint by walking, biking or taking public transit to school. If driving is the only option, cut down on the amount of cars your community uses by carpooling with your family, neighbours and friends.
2) Re-use shopping bags
Don’t forget to bring re-usable shopping bags to the grocery store! This will help reduce the amount of plastic in the world’s oceans and lakes.
3) Stop buying plastic water bottles, buy a re-usable water bottle instead
Have you ever thought about what happens to all those old plastic water bottles you throw out? Reduce your plastic waste by buying a reusable water bottle!
4) Turn off the lights when you leave a room
Save energy by flicking the switch when you leave a room. This one takes less than a second and makes a big difference.
5) Encourage your parents to buy and eat local food
Remind your family to support local farmers and buy organic produce. This can be less expensive when you buy fruits and vegetables that are in season.
6) Take a shorter shower
Try timing your average shower. Then, cut down on your shower time by a few minutes. You’d be surprised how much water you can save by being more aware.
7) Don’t use so much paper towel
Need something to clean up that puddle of milk? Try cotton towels or using half a paper towel sheet instead of a whole one.
8) Plant a tree or a garden in the spring
Planting a garden is not only fun, but it helps the environment too! Plant a mini-garden in your backyard, on your balcony or in a community garden.
9) Unplug electronic devices when you are not using them or they are fully charged
How many times do you leave your cell phone, laptop or gaming console plugged in all day? Once things are fully charged or not being used, unplug them.
10) Share and donate more often
Rather than letting your old clothing and toys gather dust, donate them to a shelter or charity. Reduce the amount of things you and your friends buy by starting a trading club for books, DVDs and magazines.
Most importantly, encourage your family and friends to go green by sharing these tips!