10 Easy Ways You Can Help Save the Planet

The planet Earth is facing an existential crisis due to climate change, and it’s up to everyone to take responsibility and contribute to making the world a better place. The United Nations believes that climate change is not only the most defining issue of our time but also a defining moment in history. So, what can we do to help save the planet? Here are ten things we can do to make a positive impact and help reduce greenhouse gases and our carbon footprint.

Be Car-Conscious, Walk, Bike, or Take Public Transportation
Reducing car usage by staying off the road at least two days a week can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 1,590 pounds (721 kilograms) per year. This can be achieved by carpooling, using public transportation, or walking or biking to work or school. Teleworking is another option that allows people to work from home, eliminating the need for daily commuting altogether. Regular car maintenance, including keeping tires inflated to the proper pressure, is another way to conserve fuel and help the environment.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Recycling is one of the easiest things you can do to help save the planet. You can recycle soda cans, paper, and other household items to reduce pollution. Using reusable bags, plates, cups, and spoons can also help reduce waste. Buy products that are made of recycled materials.

Give Composting a Try
Composting is a great way to reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. People generate millions of tons of trash every year, and composting can help reduce that number. Composting can also produce natural fertilizer.

Conserve Water
Conserving water is not only an easy but also a crucial way to help the environment. Water conservation can also help to reduce energy usage, which is required to pump and treat water. You can start by turning off the tap while brushing your teeth, fixing leaky faucets, and using rainwater to flush the toilet. You can also take shorter showers, install low-flow showerheads and toilets, and use a broom instead of a hose to clean your driveway or sidewalk. It is also recommended to water your lawn or garden in the early morning or late afternoon to prevent water loss due to evaporation during the day.

Switch to LEDs
Replacing incandescent bulbs with LED bulbs can help reduce energy consumption. LED bulbs are super energy-efficient and can last at least 30,000 hours compared to 1,000 hours for incandescent bulbs or 8,000 to 10,000 hours for CFLs. Although LED bulbs may cost more than CFLs, they are cost-effective in the long run.

Live Energy-wise
One way is to ensure that your home is properly insulated and sealed to prevent air leaks, which can lead to energy loss. Replacing old windows with energy-efficient ones can also help to prevent drafts and save on heating or cooling costs. Another way to live energy-wise is to switch to renewable energy sources like solar or wind power. By installing solar panels or a wind turbine, you can generate your own electricity and potentially even sell excess power back to the grid. Many governments and utility companies offer incentives or financing options to make the transition to renewable energy more affordable.

Eat Sustainable Foods
Currently, large-scale food production is responsible for up to 25 percent of greenhouse gas emissions. To eat sustainably, consider purchasing food from farmers who prioritize the preservation of natural resources and have minimal impact on the land. Even buying locally sourced food can make a difference. Additionally, consuming more whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and nuts while reducing the intake of red meats and processed foods can help. Growing your own fruits and vegetables is another sustainable option, and you can even start your own garden!

Plant Trees
According to a report by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) of the United Nations, the situation is more critical than ever before, with greenhouse gas emissions still on the rise and many countries failing to reduce their carbon emissions. However, there is a natural solution to combat climate change: planting trees in your yard or supporting reforestation initiatives. Trees play a crucial role in fighting climate change by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. They also filter other pollutants from the air, such as sulfur dioxide and nitrogen oxides. By planting a tree, you can contribute to a better environment for everyone.

Give Up Plastics
The facts are alarming: Every minute, people worldwide purchase 1 million plastic drinking bottles and consume up to 5 trillion single-use plastic bags annually. Humans have become reliant on plastic, but only about 9 percent of it is recycled. Currently, there are a staggering 68 to 219 million tons (75 to 199 million metric tons) of plastic floating in our oceans. We can break this cycle by taking action. Refrain from purchasing bottled water, say “no” to plastic bags, and instead, use cloth bags. Avoid using plastic straws and opt for a reusable cup instead of a plastic one. By reducing our plastic consumption, we can prevent a significant amount of waste from entering the oceans and landfills.