How to Live More Sustainably

 Earth Day is on April 22nd each year. Do you have any traditions to celebrate it?

With the recent passing of Earth Day it made me think of ways I could celebrate the Earth every day by living a more sustainable life. 

Last year was the hottest year on record. Global temperatures in 2024 were 2.3 degrees Fahrenheit above NASA's baseline which topped the previous record set in 2023. We need to act accordingly to keep that number from rising. It's time we pledge to make small changes in ALL of our lives to make big changes for the future of the Earth. 

Cut Out Fast Fashion

Fast fashion is inexpensive clothing produced quickly by clothing companies. These clothing pieces are often produced with labor intensive production methods that are unethical. These production methods are heavy carbon producing and adds to water pollution. Each time we wash these cheap clothing items we are sending microplastics into our water systems, when they are thrown away they do not degrade like normal fibers. 

Instead we should stop buying new clothing and start recycling clothing or repairing old clothing. If that isn't doable, breathable fabrics like cotton, wool, linen, and jute are better for your skin and avoid bacteria growth!

Avoid Microplastics

Microplastics are found in everything from fast fashion to toiletries. Single use plastic bottles and detergent pods do not degrade and end up polluting the land, water, and air. Microplastics can increase cancer risks and infertility issues and have been linked to DNA and cell damage.

Instead we should minimize plastic products we use and switch to glass, wood, or aluminum for our home needs. Cutting down on overprocessed foods as well as shellfish can help as well as stopping using laundry and dishwasher pods. 

Eat Less Meat

One third of greenhouse gas emissions comes from food. Red meat, dairy, and farmed shrimp are the biggest contributors to emissions and deforestation. This does not mean we have to all be vegan.

Instead reduce your consumption of red meat and eat meals rich in fruits and vegetables. Whole grains and legumes can make a huge difference in the environment. 

Compost Your Food Scraps

Americans are huge culprits of food waste. The EPA estimates that 25% of our landfills are food waste. Landfills produce methane which traps 28 times more heat in our atmosphere than CO2. Composting takes organic waste and worms and makes magic! Composting takes organic matter and gives it back to the Earth. 

Plant Your Own Garden

Even apartments with a balcony can grow potted vegetables every year. Planting these things when the weather patters are becoming increasingly more unstable can ensure a constant nutrient rich food source. This can also reduce the carbon footprint created by commercial farming practices!

It's hard for one person to make a big difference but just a small difference made by a lot of people will!