Did you know that small actions can have a big impact on the environment? With each American producing 4.9 pounds of trash per day, it’s essential to take steps to reduce our impact. Here are 20 simple changes you can make in less than 20 minutes to help the environment and make a difference.
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1. Support Local Farmers
Shop locally for produce at farmer’s markets to reduce your carbon footprint and support your community’s farmers. Local fruits and vegetables are not only healthier but also tastier!
2. Click for a Cause
Use websites like The Rainforest Site, The Animal-Rescue Site, and The Hunger Site to contribute to charitable causes with just a click each day. It’s an easy way to make a difference.
3. Create a Reusable Survival Kit
Prepare a survival kit with items like a reusable water bottle, coffee mug, and utensils to reduce daily disposable usage. Keep the kit in your car or at your desk for convenience.
4. Use Eco-Friendly Cleaning Products
Switch to non-toxic and biodegradable cleaning supplies or make your own using natural ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice.
5. Declutter Your Closet
Donate clothes you no longer wear to local charities or secondhand stores. Repurpose old fabric for upcycling projects like making reusable shopping bags.
6. Optimize Computer Settings
Adjust your computer settings for easy reading to reduce printing. Print double-sided when needed and change power settings to save energy.
7. Fix Leaks
Fix leaky faucets and running toilets to prevent water wastage in your home.
8. Donate Paper Scraps
Give paper scraps to classrooms for arts and crafts projects to minimize waste.
9. Unplug Appliances
Reduce vampire power by unplugging appliances when not in use or using power strips for larger electronics.
10. Switch to Cloth Napkins
Use cloth napkins instead of disposable ones to reduce paper waste.
11. Use Hankies Instead of Tissues
Switch to handkerchiefs and reusable rags for cleaning to minimize paper towel use.
12. Start Composting
Compost food scraps to reduce waste and nourish your garden naturally.
13. Check Refrigerator Contents
Utilize perishable items to avoid food waste by cooking them before spoilage or donating them to those in need.
14. Maintain Tire Pressure
Keep your tires properly inflated to save fuel and extend their lifespan.
15. Go Paperless
Switch to online bill payment and e-statements to reduce paper waste. Opt-out of junk mail to minimize unnecessary mail.
16. Make Homemade Fruit Juices
Blend fresh fruits for healthy drinks and store them in upcycled jars for a refreshing beverage option.
17. Pack a Reusable Lunch
Prepare lunches in reusable containers to avoid single-use packaging.
18. Save Cooking Water
Reuse water from cooking to nourish houseplants and minimize water waste.
19. Compare Packaging
Choose products with minimal packaging or recyclable materials to reduce waste.
Editor’s Note: Originally published on July 5, 2013, this article was updated in July 2024.
