California is in the midst of a drought, despite the rainy December we experienced. Whether you believe this is related to climate change or not, doing more for the planet is always a good idea. So, what difference can we all make? Here are ten steps to help minimize your carbon footprint in 2022. These easy-to-implement lifestyle changes can ensure you’re doing your part to contribute to a better ecosystem for future generations.
10. Recycle
Recycling is probably the easiest way we can minimize our carbon footprint. Most municipalities make it super easy to recycle nowadays. A quick Google search (recycling in *insert city*) will lead you to the specifics for your local facility.
Flair Tip: In California, a new law effective January 1, 2022, requires Californians to recycle their food scraps and other leftovers.
9. Reduce Water and Energy Usage
Simply being conscious of your habits throughout the day will help you make changes. Take shorter showers. Turn off the water while brushing your teeth or shaving. Turn off lights when you’re not in a room and shut down computers and other electronics when not in use.
Flair Tip: Eliminate energy vampires by unplugging appliances until you need them.
8. Eliminate Plastic
Replace much of the plastic you use daily with reusable products, like water bottles, food storage containers, grocery bags, reusable straws, and so on. Look for bamboo alternatives as a replacement for plastic. Incremental changes will have you plastic-free in no time at all!
Flair Tip: Bring the bags you use to shop for groceries with you when you shop for virtually any item. They are usually stronger and cut down on waste.
7. Go Digital
Today, virtually anything can go digital, which cuts down on paper usage. Pay bills online, share and edit documents through various applications, use online storage systems instead of paper files, and choose email receipts when shopping.
Flair Tip: Going digital saves you money by eliminating the need for paper, printers, ink, stamps, and so much more.
6. Ditch the Car (When Possible)
If your work requirements allow, join a carpool for work or take public transit. Or when you’re attending an event, having dinner with your family, or meeting friends, think about walking, biking, carpooling, or taking the bus. Simply being aware of your options helps you make better environmental choices.
Flair Tip: Carpooling and the use of public transit also let you make friends, catch up on reading, or even take a short nap.
5. Meatless Mondays
The climate impact of meat, specifically industrial factory farms, is enormous—roughly equivalent to all the driving and flying of every car, truck, and plane in the world. So cutting our meat consumption one day out of the week can have a massive impact on minimizing our carbon footprint.
Flair Tip: Shop for locally sourced meat and produce. It’s better for the planet, the growers, and your tastebuds.
4. Smart Home Renovations
Whether you’re buying a new home or tackling one small project at a time, think sustainably. There is an endless list of smart tech that can increase your home efficiency, not to mention products like eco-friendly insulation and solar panels, which are surprisingly affordable with rebates.
Flair Tip: If you have a pool that needs resurfacing, consider colors and textures that decrease evaporation and hold heat.
3. Ethical Purchasing
Be sure when a company claims to be “green” or “eco-friendly,” they are before you buy. A little homework goes a long way. Shop from local suppliers as often as possible. Check out antique shops and vintage clothing stores–and pass on trendy fashions. Invest in quality clothing made from sustainably made or repurposed fabrics!
2. Support Sustainable Causes
pick one. Countless reputable organizations are doing great things to lower our impact on the environment and oceans and leave a better planet for our children. We couldn’t list them all if we tried. Find one that touches your heart and support them. For example, consider these: One Tree Planted, Water.org, the Natural Resources Defense Council, or the Rainforest Alliance. Donating to support their work if you have the budget is the easiest thing you can do.
Flair Tip: If you can’t donate money, donate time.
1. Rely on Flair, your local GreenEarth cleaner
Trust Flair, your local GreenEarth cleaner, with all of your garment and textile care needs. Whether it’s wash and fold laundry, wedding gown cleaning, work attire, or household items—we do it all. At Flair, we’ve made the conscious decision and investment to provide a clean that is safe for you, your clothes, and the planet. In addition, our recycling programs and The Better Bag can help you reduce your carbon footprint.
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