Supported by Ara Chackerian
Protecting the environment is the job of every citizen on the planet. Although more people start recycling every month, the amount of harmful waste cluttering landfills and oceans is alarming. According to scientists, the problems from plastic waste alone have caused irreversible damage to the planet. There are several ways for every person to help protect the environment for future generations.
Say Goodbye To Plastic
Make a commitment to stop buying plastic, and be conscientious when dining out. For example, avoid using plastic utensils or straws whenever possible. Bring metal cutlery from home when going out for fast food. Choose restaurants that use glassware or paper cups instead of disposable plastic. For those who like to pick up a cup of coffee every day, bringing a mug or thermos can cut down on waste. At home, avoid buying bottled beverages. When shopping at the grocery store, bring reusable shopping bags that can be recycled eventually. Just be sure to wash or disinfect them frequently.
One of the most common mistakes is buying reusable plastic containers for food storage. Although they are cheap and microwavable, the containers release toxins when they are heated. Spend a little more money to get reusable glass containers instead, and cover them with foil that can be recycled. Many home stores sell glass containers today since more consumers are conscientious about avoiding plastic. Avoid buying any type of plastic goods for babies.
Balance Carbon Footprint
Look for a free carbon footprint calculator online. Most people are surprised to see just how much impact one individual can have on the environment. To help offset personal impact, try to do something good after every necessary negative action. For example, when booking a long plane trip, donate some money to an organization that removes carbon from the environment. It also helps to donate to ocean cleanup organizations. If the budget is tight, consider donating some time instead of money. Help with beach cleanup or other environmental protection causes in the area.Â
Research Local Energy Options
Some people have access to renewable energy where they live. Green Mountain Energy is one company that works with larger providers across the country to allow people to switch to renewable energy without actually switching to a new energy company. If renewable sources are not available in the area, contact state or local representatives. When more people contact representatives about setting up new green initiatives and using green energy, positive changes are more likely to happen sooner.
Educate Friends And Neighbors
Recycling centers and renewable energy are common in some neighborhoods in big cities. For those who live in a rural area or a neighborhood of a big city where living green is not popular, it is possible to be the voice of change. Contact environmental groups to ask for printed literature to distribute. Set up recycling drives or demonstrations to show people how to determine if an item is recyclable. Work with the mayor or a local representative to see if citywide initiatives are available. Use literature to help educate community members about everything from trash cleanup to green home improvements.
Stay Aware Of Current Events
Everyone remembers the famous oil spill in the Gulf of Mexico several years ago, which was the responsibility of BP. Oil spills still happen, and many incidents do not gain a lot of media coverage. Talk to friends and family members about environmental disasters. Not all people understand the impact that oil spills, nuclear plant accidents and other events have on the planet. If more people understand and know about these events, there will be more aware citizens who put pressure on their representatives to push for safer and greener energy solutions. Today, several organizations are using drones to monitor different parts of the country and the oceans to look for oil spills and other environmental hazards. This helps address problems before they become disasters.
