This summer had some sizzling heat waves that left us in need of a swim or at least an old-school run through the sprinkler. With these record-setting temperatures, one major concern comes to mind: climate change. We are putting a strain on our natural resources and while this is a sad reality, there are ways we can all ease the stress that we’re causing our beautiful planet.
We’ve compiled a list of easy, very do-able, green ideas that can go a long way to inspire your inner David Suzuki.
Ninety per cent of the energy used in washing clothes goes towards heating the water. It turns out that using cold water actually saves the equivalent amount of energy as driving nine miles in a car.
2. Avoid bottled water.
It’s not good value, it’s no healthier than tap water and, more importantly, it causes a lot of waste. Bottled water produces up to 1.5 million tons of plastic waste per year and more than 80 per cent of plastic bottles are simply thrown away.
Idling produces more emissions per minute than driving, which generates needless greenhouse gas emissions. And it’s expensive – idling wastes more than $100 a year per vehicle.
4. Unplug chargers and small appliances when they’re not being used.
In the average home, nearly 75 per cent of all electricity used to power electronics is consumed by products that are switched off.
5. De- junk in your mailbox.
Junk mail destroys 100 million trees a year. For more information, visit http://www.reddotcampaign.ca/ and put a stop to junk mail overflowing your mailbox.
Avoid all those nasty chemicals on your skin and unnecessary packaging, by using common household ingredients to make your own beauty recipes for a sea salt body scrub, a revitalizing face mask and an end-of-day foot spa.
Invite your pals over to swap clothes and accessories for a new spin on your old wardrobe. Bonus: Not only is it less expensive than hitting the mall, but a it’s great chance to trade with your friend for that awesome shirt you’ve been eyeing.
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