You may know that going green is good for the environment, but what does it really mean?
While going green does have to do with recycling, that is not all there is to it. Going green means that you try to minimize the harm you might do to the environment and the planet.
There are several things you can do to go green such as:
Reducing pollution
Conserving recourses
Reducing consumption and waste
Protecting the earth’s environment
Reducing pollution
So many things that we do, and use, on a daily basis contributes to pollution, that it may be overwhelming. For example, before we even leave the house everyday, just taking a shower and making ourselves presentable sends soap and other chemicals down the drain; contributing to water pollution. Then, our cars pollute the air, and the things we buy and use result in various manufacturing pollutants that can pollute the air, water, and soil.
It would be hard to completely stop contributing to pollution, but there are things you can do to lessen your impact. You can drive less, or car pool, or even buy a more environmentally friendly car, you can do your best to buy natural or organic personal products, such as soap and makeup, and you can switch to organic food which is grown without the use of pesticides and therefore does not add that kind of pollution to the air.
Conserving resources
Conserving resources is exactly what it sounds like; using less stuff! This means really taking a look at what you need, and making an effort to use up less or to reuse, and buy recycled items as much as possible.
Reducing consumption and waste
Similar to conserving resources, making an effort to be less wasteful is also a great way to go green. (1) It is said that in the U.S. alone we throw away 40% of our food supply every year, and consumers throw away 25% of what they buy. You can make a big difference just by eating everything you buy before it goes bad. This is good for your wallet and the planet! Cut down on food waste by making a meal plan, and writing a shopping list before heading to the store.
The same goes for other items such as clothing, and electronics. Make an effort to buy used, and donate or sell items you are finished using.
Protecting the environment
The human race has been destroying the homes of animals, cutting down the forests, and mining for minerals for centuries now. This has led to an imbalance in our ecosystem that will take everyone doing their part to fix. This involves doing things like voting for environment-friendly policies, shopping for eco-friendly products, and encouraging others to do the same.
Together we can make a difference!