8 Simple Tips for Sustainable Living
Sustainable living is essential for our survival – but you don’t have to change your entire lifestyle to make a difference. Here are some simple sustainable living tips that you can implement right now.
Scientists now agree that sustainability is no longer just a nice idea – it is essential for our survival as a species. If we don’t make some pretty major changes – and soon – we will be in for more than just a rough ride. Some estimates show that we are using up our available resources 25% faster than they can be replaced. If we continue to use resources at our current rate, without reducing our population growth rate, we will be running dangerously short of resources within just the next 30 years.
Luckily, we are starting to wake up and realize the peril we’re in – hopefully just in time…
Many new sustainability measures are gathering steam, from energy-efficiency, to green energy sources, green building ideas, and more.
Sustainable energy sources such as solar, wind, and geothermal are becoming mainstream, and more and more individuals are becoming aware of the importance of sustainable food production and environmental management, including sustainable gardening, composting, and recycling – as well as other eco-friendly behaviors.
Below are just a few sustainable living tips from Global4Life.net that you can put into action in your own life. Even small changes can make a big difference!
- Stop buying chemical-filled household cleaners. Instead, make your own cleaning solution out of lemon juice, vinegar and warm water. It cleans almost anything and is completely safe.
- Plan menus based on what you already have. This cuts down on clutter, reduces packaging waste and saves money on your grocery bill – as well as gas-fueled trips to the grocery store. If you have the space for a garden, take full advantage of it. And remember, you don’t have to eat meat every day of the week! Even designating one day of the week as “meat-free” will make a big difference in the long run.
- Use rainwater to water plants. This is usually a healthier choice for the plants as well, as salts and chlorine from tap water can build up in the soil and harm your plants over time.
- Place a brick or half-gallon jug full of water in your toilet tank to reduce the amount of water necessary to flush.
- Purchase a vacuum cleaner with a HEPA filter to reduce indoor pollution and allergens.
- Dry clothes outside, on a clothesline. Not only will this save lots of energy, it also helps sterilize your clothes, and you can’t beat that wonderful fresh-air smell!
- Use cloth grocery bags and reusable travel mugs.
- Say “no” to synthetic fragrances. Replace them with essential oils instead.
These are just a few simple ways to practice sustainability in your own life. By building sustainable habits, you can help create a more sustainable and healthy future for us all!
