Ways to Be More Sustainable in Everyday Life
This theme of “Being the Change” is important to us here at Sawgrass Nature Center because we are focused on being sustainable and working to increase the ways we help the planet. By doing this, we are ensuring a future planet for the animals that we care for and the children we teach. Not only do we try and help contribute to that ourselves, but we focus on teaching and demonstrating that to others through our educational programs. Below I have provided a list of some of the ways you can “Be the Change”.
Reusable Water Bottles
This may seem self-explanatory, but reusable water bottles are one of the easiest ways to decrease your plastic consumption. There are plenty of water fountains and water bottle fill stations around where you can easily fill up your water bottle. Not to mention, stores such as Starbucks will offer discounts for individuals who bring in their own reusable mugs and water bottles. You can save money in addition to helping the planet.
Reusable Grocery Bags
Like above, this may seem like a no-brainer. But, it is important to note that there are still millions of plastic grocery bags that get thrown away every year. This can be very damaging to the wildlife that lives in the oceans and in countries where our waste is disposed of. Not to mention the fact that in states where you pay for plastic bags at the grocery store, it saves you money to bring in your own grocery bags compared to getting plastic bags at the store.
Reusable Tupperware/Silverware
As someone who brings in their lunch every day, it is important to note the importance of reusable containers and silverware. Disposable containers such as plastic, Styrofoam, or cardboard have contributed a lot to waste through either not being disposed of properly or not being able to be recycled in the first place. And the nice thing is that you don’t need to go out and buy a fancy container either- a good, sturdy plastic reusable container will work just as well.
Laundry
This one may get complicated, but you can save energy and reduce your energy bill simply by washing your clothes in a slightly different way. By washing your clothes in cold water rather than warm water, you can help reduce your energy output. This also helps to prevent stains and bleeding of clothes so less loads of laundry are done in the long run (reducing water usage and the water bill) and reduces shrinkage as well ensuring the longevity of your clothes as well.
Sustainable Toothbrushes/Razors
Some items certain people use daily include toothbrushes and razors. These (like other items in this list) are continuing to be disposed of improperly causing them to contaminate and contribute to waste production. Recently (within the last 10 years or so) people have worked to solve this problem through producing more sustainable products and methods for these items. These include bamboo toothbrushes which can be composted, electric razors and toothbrushes, and toothbrushes and razors with interchangeable heads which both reduce plastic production and waste.
These are just some of the ways you as a global citizen can help to reduce waste in your everyday life and help become more mindful of the world around you. I encourage you to continue to research ways you can help and build more sustainable habits in your life. We can work together to help protect the planet and ensure that this planet continues to flourish for future generations.