Each year approximately 500 billion plastic bags are used worldwide and 100 000 marine mammals are killed as a result of the material ending up in oceans. Moreover, half of this plastic is never used again and only pollutes our planet. There are many ways we can combat this growing problem, and it all starts from small changes we can implement in our own lives. Although change can be difficult, even minor lifestyle adjustments make major impacts. So, here are 10 small environmentally-friendly and recycled product swaps that will help save the planet.
1. Reusable Coffee Cups
This one isn’t a new invention, but unfortunately, many people still don’t use it. Reusable cups decrease paper consumption, which saves trees. Moreover, some coffee shops even offer discounts if you bring your own mugs or thermoses!
2. Clothes Made From Recycled Materials
Now, this one might seem hard, I admit. However, even popular shops, such as H&M have lines made from recycled clothes. Moreover, you can even receive a 10% discount if you bring in your old clothes for H&M to recycle or reuse. By decreasing the production of clothes from new materials, we conserve resources. Recycling materials also minimizes waste in landfills.
3. Biodegradable Waste Bags
You can purchase these bags online or in many local shops. They contain trace amounts of plastic, which prevents plastic waste across our planet. In addition to that. plastic bags take hundreds of years to decompose. Furthermore, many sea animals get trapped or choke on these plastic bags. Using biodegradable bags avoids that without impacting your budget (these actually cost the same as regular waste bags!)
4. Recycled Toilet Paper
People aren’t utilizing this easy-to-find product enough! This paper feels almost exactly like the brand new one, however, it’s made out of recycled paper. It’s a win-win for the planet and your wallet since it’s cheaper than the fancy, white, regular paper. Here’s a review of the best eco-friendly toilet paper brands.
5. LED Light Bulbs
These bulbs will not only reduce your carbon footprint but also help you save some bucks. They use less electricity, so your wallet will thank you in the long run. Moreover they also irritate your eyes less.
6. Reusable Shopping Bags
This should be everyone’s number one priority. Using a bag made of durable materials repeatedly saves you money and time, not to mention, it keeps the oceans clean. Hence, instead of buying or getting a plastic bag every time you shop, get one that lasts for a lifetime. Not to mention, you can sport fun designs!
7. Bamboo Toothbrushes
Regular toothbrushes’ handles are made from plastic, which ends up polluting our beaches and oceans. Switching to a bamboo handle will prevent further pollution. Not only is it an environmentally-friendly option, but it also feels incredibly nice!
8. Rechargeable Batteries
Batteries gather at composting centers since they don’t easily decompose. So in short, switching to rechargeable ones saves you money and fights unnecessary waste. Moreover, you can charge them repeatedly and never worry about running out of power!
9. Cotton Dish Towels
Can you believe that some people still use single-use tissues to dry their dishes? I can’t! Simply invest in some cotton dish drying towels. When they get dirty, just pop them in the laundry. Hence, you can save money AND the planet.
10. Bamboo Or Wooden Cutlery
Not only are bamboo utensils beneficial for the environment, but their cuteness makes eating much more delightful. Additionally, they are a good alternative to plastic cutlery since the wooden ones are easier to transport than their stainless steel counterparts. And they don’t pollute the environment.
Finally, these ten items are only some of the small changes that we can make to save our planet. Humans cause incredible pollution in the only place we can inhabit. Yet many people don’t see the problem. If even one person makes these small changes in their everyday lives, we will start noticing the difference. Remember that every small step matters!
Feature image via Dustan Woodhouse on Unsplash
Thanks for the information. How wonderful that the movement to preserve our environment is gaining momentum. We also do similar things in our city. For example, we sew bags and clothes from old unnecessary things, which, to be honest, have a place in the trash can. But we put them in order and process them for sale. In the end, they look fantastic.
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