Storm clouds may seem to be gathering on multiple fronts these days, but there is hope in many areas. I believe at the root of every human being is a nugget of good—a place where we really want to do the right thing.
The world is becoming a more environmentally conscious place. People recognize that to change the trajectory of degradation to our planet, we must take matters into our own hands.
Change happens at the local level, and no place is more local than home. Click your heels, and you’re there? Not quite, but there are things you can begin doing right now, even as you shelter in place, that can make a difference towards environmental change.
Consider growing your own organic fruit and vegetables.
No matter how much space you have or where you live, you can grow some of your own food. Starting with a garden is a great way to lessen your environmental footprint and savor the taste of freshly plucked food. Growing fruits and vegetables in your garden have several benefits.
Organic gardening is simple; it starts with the innate concept that nature knows best. Feeding the soil instead of the plant will create a rebirth vitality in your garden.
Did you know that a single teaspoon of rich garden soil can hold up to one billion bacteria, several yards of fungal filaments, several thousand protozoa, and scores of nematodes?
Nurturing that jungle of voracious creatures will create soil fertility and delicious food.
As well as being an eco-friendly approach to food, growing your own produce can be quite satisfying.
By rejecting harmful chemical pesticides that put your family and pets at risk, you can be proud that the food you’re feeding your family is healthy and safe.
Incorporate renewable energy sources into your home.
The true measure of your sustainable home is how you source and use energy. Imagine if every home had solar panels that would produce all the electricity it used.
Consider solar installation or wind energy to power your home. It’s actually becoming more affordable and effective now more than ever.
According to a Reuters review of data, renewable power has taken up a record share of global electricity production since the onset of the coronavirus pandemic. Some think a transition away from polluting fossil fuels could be accelerated in the coming years.
Recycle don’t Wishcycle.
I used to be one of those people that that threw everything into the recycle bin and walked away, feeling majestic on my eco-friendly perch.
Responsible recycling practices are an absolute must for an eco-friendly home. But Aspirational or “wishcycling” is a real problem that can cause entire recycling loads to be thrown into the landfill. Contamination by a well-intentioned recycler is common, so it’s good to educate yourself and become familiar with the basic rules of recycling. Let’s not waste our good intentions.
Recycling guidelines can vary by location, so be sure to adhere to the rules in your area. Recycle all materials possible, and be conscious of alternative ways to re-use household items.
Support businesses that strive to make positive change.
The products we buy are manufactured or grown somewhere. How they’re produced can either help or hurt the environment.
We are seeing a more environmental focus in households as well as businesses. Companies that operate ethically on all fronts and have environmental policies and procedures are commonplace in most industries.
The Climate Collaborative is a great example of concerned businesses from the natural products industry that are working collaboratively to catalyze bold action, amplify the voice of business, and promote sound policy to reverse climate change.
These 658 Companies have committed to one or all of a set of innovative and practical climate initiatives, from agriculture and reducing food waste to energy efficiency and responsible packaging. They have all made a basic commitment to engage in climate responsible policy.
Find more resources as you go.
We’re all learning how to tread lighter on our Mother Earth, and we don’t innately know just how. Green America is a great resource for ideas on how to make the greenest decisions that affect your home, family, and community.
What changes are you making in your home, your community, and for the planet to put your Earth-conscious ideas into action?
Hey friends, thanks for reading. I included links within this post. I make a little money for some of these referrals, and the FTC wants you to know that. If you know me personally or have been a longtime reader, I hope you also know that I only recommend companies that I believe in. Live well, friends.
Thanks for another great article filled with a lot of information. One of the greatest things we can do for this world is plant more trees. We fight tree removal here in San Francisco and while a lot od trees are planted a lot of big ones are cut to allow for more houses and development. It’s a never ending problem. Thank you for your voice in these times.