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Earth month is finally here, and to kick it off, I am giving you some easy ways to incorporate environmental friendliness into your daily life!
TIP #1 - BYO Container
Plastic is an increasingly alarming issue, contaminating our waters to filling our landfills. A fantastic way to reduce your individual plastic use and set an example for other members of society is to use reusable containers.
Exciting news relating to this topic, on March 1st, 2022, Washington State made it legal for patrons to bring their own containers! Bring your containers to the grocery store and out to eat to show your support. Here is a link to the state's Department of Health update.
TIP #2 - Making Thoughtful Purchases
Stop, think, and listen to the earth; "Do I really need this new item? Can I find it used?" Did you know that about 14 million tons of textile go to waste every year, not even including the other non-clothing items that find their way to landfills? Buying second-hand is not only better for the environment, but you can often find unique one-of-a-kind pieces!
As much as I love some retail therapy, being mindful about where and how much you shop can make a big difference in the long run.
TIP #3 - 100-Mile Diet
Have you ever heard of the 100-Mile Diet? It's exactly how it sounds, eating items that are only grown & produced within a 100-mile radius of your home. Plus, it's a great book!
It is not feasible for many to only eat items within this perimeter, but there are several ways to ensure you are getting quality local products.
Below is a list that can help guide you to fresh local products.
Ask your local grocer what items in the supermarket are locally grown and produced
Join a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)
Attend your local farmer's market
Buying produce that is in season
Not only are you getting high-quality food this way, but it is also an opportunity to meet and support those in your community.
TIP #4 - Starting A Conversation
Sometimes the best solutions are the simplest. To tackle the climate crisis facing us all, we must work together. Starting conversations with friends and family about environmental awareness can snowball into significant change. When we discuss ideas and plans of action and share our individual efforts, we can inspire others or be inspired!
Happy Earth Month!
This article was written by Taylor Atkinson, owner of Atwil Design