07Sep
These are trying times, there is no doubt. Many of us are in survival mode, just trying to get through each of these days that are so different than we are used to.
But now, more than ever we cannot forget that we, as humans have a HUGE impact on our environment and this planet that we call home. Here are a few simple things that you can do to make sure that as we move through each day, taking all of our safety precautions, that we make sure we are moving in a way that protects our Earth!
1.) CUT YOUR STRINGS- For those of you using disposable masks, unfortunately they are not recyclable and they should be disposed of after each use. But they are MUCH better off in the garbage than on the ground. When left on the ground they may end up in our waterways. Both on the ground, or in the water they pose a huge risk to animals. The stings can get wrapped around them and cause serious harm. So please, before you throw your mask away, make sure to cut those strings!
2.) USE A REUSABLE MASK- The disposable masks are convenient and honestly good to have on hand in the car, diaper bag, backpack, purse etc. But the go to mask should be a reusable one. Save the handy disposable ones for emergencies like if you forget your main mask. Reusable masks can be thrown in the laundry and reused over and over again. It is important to make sure that you are washing your mask after each use, so it may be a good idea to get your hands on several. Have fun with it! Reach out to someone local that has taken the time to create custom masks. I have seen so many amazing ones! Check out https://www.instagram.com/saucee503/
3.) SHOP LOCAL- This pandemic has taken a toll on everyone, but small business has been hit particularly hard. Now is a great time to support these businesses instead of ordering products online. Many of the products that we order need to be shipped from miles away. This alone leaves a tremendous carbon footprint. Make a list of items you need to order, look over that list and see if there is a local business you can get these items from instead. They sure could use your support and every little thing we can do to better our earth is a win!
4.) REDUCE YOUR MEAT CONSUMPTION- We are all at home more, protecting each other (or we should be anyway). Kids are doing distance learning, many people are working from home, and so much of what we typically do away from home is restricted. So why not take this down time, while things are moving a bit slower to focus on consuming less meat. I know this is a tough one for many. I get it. But did you know that the livestock industry accounts for 14% of greenhouse gas emissions and 80% anthropogenic land use! Take this time to learn some meatless recipes. Maybe start by committing one or two days to a week to being meatless. Make it a challenge, get the family involved and have fun with it. Check out some of these meatless eating blogs.
https://www.sproutedkitchen.com/
https://www.veggierunners.com/
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