When life gets hectic, it’s easy to focus on convenience and forget the environmental consequences. The truth is our daily habits greatly impact our overall carbon footprint.
Don’t worry; you don’t have to admit defeat or move off the grid. You can make a difference without redesigning your entire life by trying a few of these simple lifestyle changes that help the environment.
Cut Back on Your Plastic Usage
Plastic is nearly impossible to avoid, but it’s especially common in convenience food packaging. Whether it’s a grab-and-go deli or your favorite takeout spot, most restaurants rely on plastic packaging.
Packing your lunch in an insulated bag helps the environment in many ways. Upgrade to reusable food containers and cutlery to cut back on single-use plastic.
Take Shorter Showers
While a long, luxurious shower is tempting, it’s not an eco-friendly habit. Water is a precious resource that we rely on for our health and well-being; plus, your water heater uses a lot of energy to warm the water for your shower.
Challenge yourself to shorten your shower by one minute each time. Reducing your shower time by as little as five minutes can greatly impact your carbon footprint.
Scale Back on Meat and Dairy
Raising cattle for meat and dairy consumes a lot of environmental resources. Between the acreage needed for grazing and growing hay, it also takes a lot of land. Methane emissions from the animals also add to the carbon footprint because they are a significant contributor to climate change.
That’s why cutting back on meat and dairy can help. Start small by cooking one meatless meal each week or buying less ice cream or milk. Try adding more plant-based proteins like beans, nuts, or tofu to your diet.
Reduce Your Driving Habit
If hopping behind the wheel is your default mode of travel, consider adjusting your driving habits. Air pollution from vehicles is a major issue that directly affects the environment.
That doesn’t mean you must abandon your car entirely; even small changes can make a difference. To start, try carpooling to work with colleagues or family members. Use public transportation, walk, or bike when you can.
If you’d like to lead a more eco-conscious life, try these simple lifestyle changes that help the environment. A few habit changes can help lower your carbon footprint.