In recent years we have witnessed changes in our climate, from snowfall in California to heat waves in England. To help combat climate change, there are subtle yet powerful ways that everyone can contribute to helping resolve the issues we are facing as humans.
Living a low-impact lifestyle means having less impact on the environment and society. It's about taking steps to live a healthier day-to-day life and reducing your carbon footprint. There are many easy ways to make small adjustments, from riding a bicycle to work or switching to a hybrid car. Read on for more advice and simple tips.
Sourcing Organic Food And Local Produce
Whether it's food, furniture or home essentials, there are many products that you can source locally. Taking this step not only helps local businesses and the community but can also work out to be more affordable than shopping at large companies.
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Buying produce locally helps reduce your carbon footprint as it saves on the fuel that is usually needed to import food from abroad and get it onto the shelves of stores. Not only can the food taste better but it's also fresh and healthy. Eating processed food can have long-term effects on your body and the environment, from additives and preservatives in the food, to excessive packaging that will spend years in a landfill.
Another solution is buying local crafts, homeware, household goods, and even whole houses. This can help your local economy and is a great way to buy one-off and unique pieces that you can't find in commercial chains and department stores.
Here are some things that are easy to find provincially.
- Fruit and vegetables such as carrots, apples, strawberries, pears and much more
- Eggs can be found on local farms as well as meat
- Dairy products like yogurts, milk, and cheese
- Ceramics including plates, mugs, and bowls
- Wood for firewood or for household use
Switch Your Car For Alternative Transport
Owning a car can be convenient for work and leisure but it can also be expensive and harmful to the environment and human health. Carbon dioxide is one of the largest contributors to greenhouse gasses; Carbon monoxide contributes to smog, which reduces the air quality. It isn't just about the fumes released by a car that can create a carbon footprint - but during the process of building the car, using materials such as steel and plastic can create repercussions.
Author: Nubia Navarro (nubikini) Source: pexels.com
Converting to a low impact transport may be easier than you thought. Riding your bike to work is one of the advantageous changes you could make. Not only is this a great way to get your daily dose of cardio workout but the environment will benefit as well.
If you want an alternative to cycling, using public transport such as buses, trains, and even car sharing will mean you are outputting less harmful emission. Using certain public transport can result in avoiding traffic congestions and rush hour too, so you can relax and indulge in some morning reading on the train instead.
Creating A Low Impact Household
If you're doing some remodeling or renovations, you should try and substitute some supplies for natural materials. Clay can be used instead of traditional plaster; it can be mixed with hemp or straw to make it stronger and more resistant to damage created by humidly, damp and condensation. Clay plaster has no chemicals, you can even make it yourself. It was used in homes before the 20th century when synthetic plasters became popular.
If you're refurbishing or looking for some extra pieces to finish of your house, then a cost-effective and eco-friendly option is to buy used furniture. Reusing is one of the most efficient forms of living a low impact lifestyle. You can search for items online or take it a step further and visit your local second-hand stores. Thrift stores have seen an increase in popularity because they can save you money and provide you with antiques or intriguing vintage finds.
Author: Kaboompics // Karolina Source: kaboompics.com
There are a few simple ways to create daily energy savings. Solar panel costs have decreased in the last few years and are one way to save you money on your electricity bill.
Below are some more simple methods of using less, or replacing existing household appliances.
- If you have a fireplace then opt for a wood burning stove
- Use LED lights as an alternative
- Turn off the lights after using them
- Take shorter showers to conserve water
- Take out the plugs of appliances after using them
Now it's becoming more important than ever before to take steps towards a low impact lifestyle. It's beneficial for the environment but also for your community and society as a whole. Making some changes could result in a happier and healthier future.