5 Easy Ways To Go Green This Summer

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Go Green This Summer

As we head into yet another week of above 90 degree days, we’re more committed than ever to do what we can to reduce our carbon footprint.

We know the argument that a single person can’t make a difference, but we also know that hundreds, thousands and millions of individuals working together can lead to solutions the planet needs.

However, we also know that change can be hard, so we’ve rounded up 5 easy ways to go green this summer!

1.) Break Up With Plastic Water Bottles

“Oh, I don’t have to give up my plastic water bottles because I recycle them.” Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but the truth is that only 12%, or one out of every six bottles, are recycled. Not to mention that it takes 3 times the amount of water to make a bottle as it does to fill it! And given that Americans throw away 35 billion water bottles a year, the amount that ends up in landfills, oceans and waterways is staggering.

It’s such an easy solution to switch to a reusable water bottle. There are literally hundreds and hundreds of bottles to choose from depending on how you plan to use it. Consider size and shape (for ease of fit in a cup holder) whether you want a screw top or a flip top, and if you want a bottle for both cold and hot liquids. We love this reusable bottle because it’s insulated, has a one handed flip top and the bottle is dishwasher safe!

2.) Buy Local Produce

Summer is the perfect time to take advantage of local produce. Farmer’s markets and CSAs are typically easy to find in the summer months and not only will you be supporting your community, you’ll be helping the environment by cutting down on pollution that results from the transportation of produce from long distances. Make sure you have a plan for the food you buy so don’t end up throwing things out and wasting your money.

3.) Throw Green Parties

If you plan on entertaining this summer, consider switching to as many eco friendly products as possible. Whether it’s a picnic or a BBQ, outdoor parties don’t have to be full of single use plastics. Some simple swaps are:

  • Cloth napkins instead of paper
  • Compostable plates and utensils in place of plastic
  • Homemade pitchers of tea, water and iced coffee instead of cans or bottles
  • Paper straws in place of plastic
  • Cloth tablecloths instead of plastic

4.) Water Less and Plant Intentionally

If you water your grass, consider reducing how often you do it. You can cut your personal use of water by 10-15% by simply cutting back one day a week. With the high temperatures we’re all experiencing, perhaps let go of the idea that your lawn has to look perfectly green this year. Additionally, look into planting native plants and grasses that don’t require as much water for the future. If you have questions, your local nursery is a great place to find some answers. You can have a beautiful yard that won’t deplete water reserves!

5.) Give Composting A Try

If you’re not familiar with composting, it can feel overwhelming to get started. But it’s really not that hard, we’ve been doing it for years and it makes a huge difference to the amount of trash our household produces. First, we would recommend getting a countertop compost bin and if you have the space, an outdoor bin can transform the health of your yard.

If you’re interested in composting but don’t know where to start, this article is a great guide for beginners.

One Step At A Time

Change can happen one small step at a time. You don’t have to turn your entire life upside down and you don’t have to be perfect. If you do better today than you did yesterday, that’s a step in the right direction for all of us and for the planet.