Happy Earth Day!
These are some actions I've started to attempt to help the Earth beyond recycling and reusing. I'm sure you've heard of these before, but actions speak louder than words. I've decided to stop talking and start walking.
1. Educating myself
The more I know the more I will be aware of what I am doing, using, and what I was leaving behind. It might seem like a lot of work, but I was willing to put in the effort for the results. Also, I wanted to stay aware and knowledgeable.This not only helps the earth, but it helps me learn and grow.
Here are some resources I started to sink into and I recommend for you if you’re interested:
A World Full of Plastics is a documentary on PBS Newshour. It dives into the world of plastics in the oceans and how it affects the sealife and humans.
Food Inc. is one of the first memorable investigative documentaries that shows their audience the impacts of America’s food corporations on the environment.
State of the Future by Jerome C. Glenn, Elizabeth Florescu, and The Millenium Project Team shares with its readers on how to improve the situation with the Earth in order to create a better world.
Here are some resources I started to sink into and I recommend for you if you’re interested:
A World Full of Plastics is a documentary on PBS Newshour. It dives into the world of plastics in the oceans and how it affects the sealife and humans.
Food Inc. is one of the first memorable investigative documentaries that shows their audience the impacts of America’s food corporations on the environment.
State of the Future by Jerome C. Glenn, Elizabeth Florescu, and The Millenium Project Team shares with its readers on how to improve the situation with the Earth in order to create a better world.
2. Bike more. Walk more.
With the rising prices of gas, riding my bicycle and walking is not only good for my bank account, but it reduces global warming. Also, it helps me stay fit and even helped reduce my stress levels.
https://commutter.com/benefits-riding-bike/
https://commutter.com/benefits-riding-bike/
I’m not saying I never drove or rode the bus. I was reasonable. If there’s a restaurant down the road I was craving for, I would walk instead of driving. If your workplace is 30 miles away, of course, feel free to drive. My high school soccer coach always rode his bike to school, which would take him about 30 minutes. In college, I would always walk to school and it would take me about 10 minutes. My roommate hated walking and would always take the bus, which would take about 30 minutes. Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself. I know doing something different can be scary, but it will help you grow.
3. Choose non toxic chemicals at home
I began reading the labels on my cleaning products after learning that some products may have chemicals that could irritate my skin or respiratory system. It may seem like a small and bothersome action, but it could save you money later on. This also gives me the power to know what I am using in my home.
Baking soda and lemons are a staple in my cleaning routine. Baking soda helps get rid of odors in my refrigerator as well as clothes. Mixing the two together also helps clean kitchen surfaces as well as pots, pans, and so much more. Of course, with anything, always be careful about getting it on your skin. I have sensitive skin and even a little bit of lemon juice can get me itching. Wear gloves, stay informed, and continue to do your research.
https://www.epa.gov/greenerproducts/identifying-greener-cleaning-products
Baking soda and lemons are a staple in my cleaning routine. Baking soda helps get rid of odors in my refrigerator as well as clothes. Mixing the two together also helps clean kitchen surfaces as well as pots, pans, and so much more. Of course, with anything, always be careful about getting it on your skin. I have sensitive skin and even a little bit of lemon juice can get me itching. Wear gloves, stay informed, and continue to do your research.
https://www.epa.gov/greenerproducts/identifying-greener-cleaning-products
4. Meatless Mondays
I know. I know. Meat is delicious. It’s tender, juicy, and makes you feel full. It’s in your system. You feel like you have to eat meat, but it’s also expensive. Fortunately, you may be privileged enough to be able to choose a meatless option. It may seem impossible at first, but just taking it one meal or one day at a time can make a big difference. I love meat too, but I know skipping out on chicken or pork and picking noodles or tofu can improve my health. I try to have at least one day in which I don’t eat meat, and it has introduced me into a world of so many more possibilities.
Check out these vegetarian meals from The Modern Proper:
https://themodernproper.com/60-best-vegetarian-meals
Check out these vegetarian meals from The Modern Proper:
https://themodernproper.com/60-best-vegetarian-meals
5. Plant the Plants
Plant the plants.
You don’t need a huge backyard. Tomatoes, peas,potatoes, squash, lettuce, and so many more vegetables can all be grown in pots. Having your own garden of vegetables can save you time, energy, and money. Growing up, my mom grew peppers and mint in our backyard. It saved us money and a trip to the store. Being able to see where your food comes from and knowing that you took the time to grow it, brought a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.
https://www.thespruce.com/great-vegetables-to-grow-in-containers-848214
You don’t need a huge backyard. Tomatoes, peas,potatoes, squash, lettuce, and so many more vegetables can all be grown in pots. Having your own garden of vegetables can save you time, energy, and money. Growing up, my mom grew peppers and mint in our backyard. It saved us money and a trip to the store. Being able to see where your food comes from and knowing that you took the time to grow it, brought a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction.
https://www.thespruce.com/great-vegetables-to-grow-in-containers-848214