Written by Reep Green Solutions blog contributor, Vismaya (Maya) Sreekumar. Maya is currently completing her Marketing Management degree at the University of Guelph. Alongside her academic pursuits, she is deeply passionate about Bharatanatyam, a traditional Indian classical dance she has cherished since childhood. In her free time, Maya enjoys selling her paintings and connecting with nature.
I was talking with my friends, and as the conversations went on, I realized something interesting. Many of them have unintentionally developed habits that help save the planet. Even though they might not be aware of it, these habits have become second nature to them. This made me think about the various simple actions anyone can take to make a difference. Here are some easy habits to adopt that can help reduce your carbon footprint and contribute to saving the planet.
Cutting down on meat: Tips for Meat Lovers
It may not be a walk in the park to cut down on meat right away for those who love a juicy steak. However, being conscious about the amount of meat in our diets is crucial for both our health and the environment. Here is why reducing meat consumption matters and how you can transition more easily.
Why Reduce Meat Consumption?
Environmental Impact: Meat and dairy production accounts for about 14% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Reducing your intake of these foods can significantly lower your carbon footprint ( Energy Saving Trust, 2022).
Health Benefits: A diet lower in meat and higher in plant-based foods can lead to better health outcomes, including reduced risks of heart disease, certain cancers, and obesity.
Practical Tips for Reducing Meat Consumption
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- Portion Control: Start by reducing your portion sizes of meat, halving it could go a long way. This simple step can significantly cut down on your overall meat consumption.
- Incorporate Plant-Based Proteins: Mix meat with plant-based proteins like beans, lentils, or tofu. For example, make a hearty stew or soup combining these ingredients, which can be especially comforting during the colder months.
- Meatless Days: Introduce one or more meatless days into your week. This gradual approach can make the transition smoother and help you discover delicious vegetarian dishes.
- Explore New Recipes: Experiment with vegetarian recipes to find meals you enjoy. This can make the shift feel less like a sacrifice and more like an exciting culinary adventure.
- Understand the Impact: Keep in mind that any reduction in meat consumption can make a difference. Even small changes contribute to your health and the environment.
Switch your plastic bottle to a reusable one
It’s surprising that people still buy packs of bottled water when using a reusable water bottle can save money and benefit the environment. If you’re one of these people, here are some compelling reasons to make the switch:
- Cost-Effective: A reusable water bottle, typically costing under $30, can last a lifetime with proper care. Compare this to buying bottled water daily, and the savings add up significantly in the long run.
- Stay Hydrated: Reusable bottles often come with measurement markers, helping you track your water intake and stay hydrated.
- Environmental Impact: By opting for a reusable bottle, you reduce your carbon footprint and help decrease plastic waste.
- Durability: Reusable bottles are designed to withstand more than disposable plastic bottles. They won’t crunch, crack, or leak easily, making them ideal for everyday use and outdoor adventures.
- Health Benefits: Avoiding single-use plastic bottles reduces your exposure to microplastics, which can be harmful to your health. Using a reusable bottle is better for both your health and the planet’s.
What to Look for in a Reusable Water Bottle
When choosing a reusable water bottle, consider the following features:
- BPA-Free and Phthalate-Free: These chemicals can leach into your water and have been linked to hormonal imbalances, pregnancy disorders, organ failure, and cancer. Always choose bottles free from these toxins.
- Material:
- Stainless Steel: A popular choice due to its durability, non-corrosive properties, and lack of chemical leaching. While some worry about a metallic taste, high-quality stainless steel bottles do not impart this taste.
- Glass: Offers purity of taste with no risk of chemical leaching, but can be fragile.
- Aluminum: Lightweight and durable, though some people may not prefer the taste it can impart.
- Insulation: Look for double-walled insulated bottles if you want to keep your drinks at a desired temperature for longer periods.
- Durability: Especially if you plan to use your bottle outdoors or during physical activities, choose a bottle that can withstand drops and impacts.
Forget fast fashion and start to take it slow
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- Maximize your clothes’ life: Follow the instructions on the tags to properly care for your clothing. Proper care can significantly extend the longevity of the item and could last you years just by caring for them.
- Buy second-hand clothing: Going out to thrift stores or local consignment stores often yields better materials than what is available now. Pure cotton, for example, is now a hard item to buy, something we used to take for granted.
- Swap clothes with friends: Organize clothing swaps to refresh your wardrobe without buying new items.
- Look for sustainable materials: Choose clothing made from sustainable and eco-friendly materials.
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