1. Reduce the use of plastic
Plastic is a real plague for our beautiful planet. Its production requires a large amount of oil, but the problem also lies in the management of plastic waste. A plastic bottle can take up to 1,000 years before disintegrating completely. Moreover, the waste that is found in our oceans is a real danger to the marine fauna.
Rest assured, the solutions to reduce substantially your consumption of plastic are quick and easy:
• Do not buy bottled water and instead consume tap water.
• Always bring your reusable bags to the grocery store, but also to the shopping mall!
• Go for unwrapped food at the grocery store and visit a zero waste grocery store!
2. Reduce meat consumption
Livestock farming for meat consumption alone accounts for more than 15% of the world's CO2 emissions. The production of 1 kg of beef produces 12 kg of CO2. The calculation is very simple and a very small reduction in the consumption of meat makes a real difference. For this reason, start by making a day without meat per week and gradually increase to 2 or 3 vegetarian days.
3. Pledge to sustainable transportation
Governments are increasingly investing in the development of sustainable transportation. Drop solo-driving car and try ridesharing. You will save money, time with HOV lanes, but you will also gain peace of mind, since you will not have to drive every day. Ridesharing.com offers daily commute rideshare absolutely free of charge. Register now to experience it!
4. Reduce paper consumption
This one is pretty straightforward to achieve. Just make sure that you subscribe to electronic billing with all of your services and providers to receive invoices and documents by email. This way you can avoid the production of unnecessary paper and postal transport.
5. Local purchases
Pay attention to the origin of the products that you buy and aim for local providers when buying seasonal fruits and vegetables. By privileging these products, you encourage the local industry and avoid a production that requires transportation over several thousand kilometers.
While you're at it, why not start urban agriculture? Whether in town on your balcony or in the garden of your backyard, there are plenty of opportunities. Initiate yourself with tomatoes and herbs that are easier before experimenting further.