Common Items That Can't Be Recycled

Hazardous waste management is a critical issue in environmental public health, as poorly managed hazardous waste can have serious consequences for human health and the environment. In this essay, we will explore the impact of hazardous waste on public health and the measures that can be taken to manage it effectively.

Hazardous waste is any material that is potentially dangerous or harmful to human health or the environment. This can include chemicals, batteries, electronic waste, and medical waste, among others. If not properly managed, hazardous waste can contaminate groundwater and soil, leading to serious health problems for those who come into contact with it. In addition, toxic waste can also harm wildlife and ecosystems, further exacerbating the impact on the environment.

To minimize the impact of hazardous waste on public health and the environment, it is crucial to implement effective hazardous waste management practices. This includes properly disposing of hazardous waste, using environmentally-friendly methods to dispose of waste, and properly labeling and storing hazardous waste to prevent accidental exposure. Governments and organizations can also work together to regulate the production and disposal of hazardous waste, and to promote the use of safe and sustainable practices for waste management.

In addition, it is important to educate individuals and communities about the dangers of hazardous waste and the importance of proper waste management. This can include providing information about the proper disposal of hazardous waste, as well as encouraging individuals to reduce their use of hazardous materials and products.

In conclusion, hazardous waste management is a critical issue in environmental public health that requires attention and action from individuals, governments, and organizations. By properly managing hazardous waste, we can help protect public health and the environment, and ensure a safer and more sustainable future for generations to come.

   

The Great Pacific Garbage Patch

The Great Pacific Garbage Patch (GPGP) is a region of the Pacific Ocean that is characterized by high concentrations of marine debris, particularly plastic. It is located between Hawaii and California and is often referred to as the "world's largest landfill."

The GPGP is not a traditional landfill, but rather a collection of floating debris that is spread out over a vast area of the ocean. It is difficult to accurately measure the size of the GPGP, but some estimates put it at twice the size of Texas, or about 1.6 million square kilometers.

The GPGP is formed by the convergence of several ocean currents that carry debris from all over the world to this central location. This debris can range from small microplastics, which are pieces of plastic that are smaller than 5mm in size, to larger items such as shipping containers and abandoned fishing nets.

The GPGP is a significant problem because it poses a threat to marine life and the health of the ocean ecosystem. The plastic debris in the patch can entangle and kill marine animals, and the chemicals in the plastic can be toxic to marine life that ingests it. The GPGP also has negative economic impacts, as it can interfere with shipping lanes and damage fishing equipment.

There are efforts underway to address the issue of the GPGP and reduce marine debris. These efforts include increased awareness and education about the problem, as well as the development of technologies to remove and recycle the debris.

Explain Plastic Pollution

Plastic pollution is a major environmental issue that affects waterways, including rivers, lakes, and oceans. When plastic ends up in the water, it can have harmful effects on aquatic life and the overall health of the ecosystem.

There are several ways that plastics can end up in waterways:

1.     Litter: Plastics that are improperly disposed of, such as by being thrown on the ground or out of a car window, can end up in waterways through stormwater runoff or wind.

2.     Sewage systems: Plastics that are not properly disposed of, such as by being flushed down the toilet or thrown in the trash, can end up in sewage systems and eventually make their way into waterways.

3.     Agricultural runoff: Agricultural practices, such as the use of plastic mulch in farming, can contribute to the presence of plastic in waterways.

4.     Industrial discharge: Industrial facilities that release untreated or inadequately treated wastewater into rivers, lakes, or oceans can contribute to plastic pollution in waterways.

The negative impacts of plastic pollution in waterways include physical harm to aquatic life, such as entanglement and ingestion, as well as chemical impacts, as certain plastics can release harmful chemicals into the water. Plastics can also absorb toxins from the environment, making them even more harmful when ingested by aquatic life. In addition, plastic pollution can have negative effects on the health and livelihoods of people who rely on waterways for food and economic activity.

Generating Unsustainable Waste

Generating unsustainable waste refers to the production and disposal of materials in a way that is not environmentally sustainable. This can have a range of negative impacts on the environment:

1.     Pollution: Waste that is not properly managed can release toxins into the environment, contaminating soil, water, and air, and potentially affecting the health of humans and wildlife.

2.     Habitat destruction: Landfills, which are used to dispose of waste, can take up large areas of land and can result in the destruction of natural habitats, such as forests and grasslands.

3.     Climate change: Landfills are a major source of methane, a potent greenhouse gas that contributes to climate change. In addition, the production of materials for disposal, such as plastic and paper products, also generates greenhouse gas emissions.

4.     Resource depletion: The production of materials for disposal, such as paper and plastic, requires the use of natural resources, such as trees and oil, which can be unsustainable if not managed properly.

To address the negative impacts of generating unsustainable waste, there are several actions that can be taken:

1.     Reducing waste: One of the most effective ways to address unsustainable waste is to reduce the amount of waste being produced. This can be achieved by using reusable products, such as water bottles and shopping bags, and by recycling when possible.

2.     Recycling: Recycling can help to reduce the demand for new materials, conserving natural resources and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

3.     Composting: Composting organic waste, such as food scraps and yard waste, can reduce the amount of waste going to landfills and can be used as a natural fertilizer for gardens and farms.

4.     Supporting waste reduction and recycling programs: Local, state, and federal governments can implement programs to encourage waste reduction and recycling, such as providing recycling bins and incentives for households and businesses that recycle.

5.     Educating others about the environmental impacts of unsustainable waste: Raising awareness about the negative impacts of generating unsustainable waste can encourage individuals and communities to adopt more sustainable waste management practices.

Food and Water Insecurity

Food insecurity refers to a lack of access to sufficient, safe, and nutritious food to meet the dietary needs of individuals and households. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including poverty, conflict, natural disasters, and climate change.

Water insecurity, on the other hand, refers to a lack of access to clean and safe water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene. It can be caused by a variety of factors, including drought, over-extraction of water resources, and pollution.

Both food and water insecurity can have serious consequences for individuals, communities, and countries. Some of the negative impacts of food insecurity include malnutrition, poor health, and decreased productivity. Water insecurity can lead to a range of health problems, including waterborne diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid.

There are several actions that can be taken to address food and water insecurity:

1.     Strengthening food systems: This can include supporting smallholder farmers, improving food storage and transportation infrastructure, and investing in research and development to improve crop yields and increase food production.

2.     Promoting sustainable water management: This can include improving water conservation and efficiency, protecting water sources, and investing in water infrastructure, such as wells and irrigation systems.

3.     Reducing poverty: Poverty is a major contributor to both food and water insecurity. Programs and policies that aim to reduce poverty, such as microfinance initiatives and social safety nets, can help to improve access to food and water for vulnerable populations.

4.     Enhancing disaster preparedness and response: Natural disasters, such as hurricanes and earthquakes, can disrupt food and water systems and exacerbate food and water insecurity. Building resilience and improving disaster preparedness and response can help to minimize the negative impacts of these events.

5.     Promoting sustainable agriculture: Sustainable agriculture practices can help to increase food production and improve water management, reducing the risk of food and water insecurity.

Agriculture is a major contributor to a number of environmental issues, including:

1.     Land degradation: Agricultural practices, such as overgrazing, monoculture, and the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, can lead to soil erosion, nutrient depletion, and soil degradation. These practices can also lead to the loss of natural habitats, such as forests and grasslands, which can have negative impacts on wildlife and biodiversity.

2.     Water pollution: The use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides in agriculture can lead to water pollution as these substances can run off into rivers, streams, and lakes, contaminating water sources and potentially affecting the health of humans and wildlife.

3.     Greenhouse gas emissions: Agriculture is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, primarily through the production of methane and nitrous oxide. These gases contribute to climate change, which can have a range of negative impacts on the environment, including rising sea levels, more frequent and severe natural disasters, and changes to weather patterns.

4.     Loss of biodiversity: Agricultural practices can lead to the loss of biodiversity by replacing natural habitats with crops or livestock. This can have negative impacts on wildlife and the ecosystem as a whole.

To address these environmental issues, there are a number of actions that can be taken, including:

1.     Implementing sustainable agricultural practices: This can include using conservation tillage, cover crops, and integrated pest management to reduce the negative impacts of agriculture on the environment.

2.     Supporting research and development of sustainable agriculture: This can help to identify and develop new technologies and practices that can be used to reduce the environmental impact of agriculture.

3.     Promoting the use of organic agriculture: Organic agriculture is a form of agriculture that uses natural methods, such as composting and crop rotation, to improve soil health and reduce the need for chemical fertilizers and pesticides.

4.     Protecting natural habitats: Protecting natural habitats, such as forests and grasslands, can help to preserve biodiversity and mitigate the negative impacts of agriculture on the environment.

5.     Educating others about the environmental impacts of agriculture: Raising awareness about the environmental impacts of agriculture can encourage individuals and communities to adopt more sustainable practices.

Ocean acidification is the process by which the pH of the ocean becomes more acidic, caused by the absorption of carbon dioxide (CO2) from the atmosphere. The ocean absorbs about a quarter of the CO2 produced by human activities, such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation. As the ocean absorbs more CO2, the pH of the water decreases, making it more acidic.

Ocean acidification has a number of negative impacts on marine ecosystems. Acidic water can interfere with the ability of some marine organisms, such as shellfish, to form shells and skeletons. Acidification can also affect the growth, development, and survival of some marine species, such as coral reefs and some types of plankton. In addition, acidification can alter the balance of nutrients in the ocean and reduce the productivity of certain ecosystems.

To address ocean acidification, it is important to reduce our carbon footprint and take action to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. This can be done through individual actions, such as reducing energy consumption and choosing environmentally-friendly transportation options, as well as through policies and initiatives at the local, national, and international level. By taking steps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and address climate change, we can help to slow the process of ocean acidification and protect marine ecosystems.

There are several actions that can be taken to address ocean acidification and reduce the amount of CO2 being released into the atmosphere:

1.     Reduce greenhouse gas emissions: One of the most effective ways to address ocean acidification is to reduce the amount of CO2 being released into the atmosphere. This can be achieved by transitioning to clean energy sources, such as solar and wind power, and implementing energy efficiency measures.

2.     Protect and restore forests: Forests absorb large amounts of CO2 from the atmosphere, so protecting and restoring forests can help to reduce the amount of CO2 in the atmosphere and mitigate the effects of ocean acidification.

3.     Implement carbon capture and storage technologies: Carbon capture and storage technologies can be used to capture CO2 emissions from power plants and other industrial sources, and store them underground or use them in other applications, such as enhanced oil recovery or the production of carbon-neutral fuels.

4.     Support ocean acidification research: There is still much that scientists don't understand about the impacts of ocean acidification and how it will affect marine life in the long term. Supporting research on this issue can help to improve our understanding and inform the development of effective strategies for addressing it.

5.     Educate others about the issue: Raising awareness about the issue of ocean acidification and the actions that can be taken to address it can help to encourage individuals and communities to take action and make a positive difference

Air pollution refers to the presence of substances in the air that are harmful to human health or the environment. These substances can be in the form of particulates, gases, or biological molecules, and can come from a variety of sources, including industrial and transportation emissions, power plants, and agriculture.

There are many different types of air pollutants, including:

1.     Particulate matter (PM): Fine particles suspended in the air that can be inhaled into the lungs and cause respiratory problems.

2.     Ozone: A form of oxygen that is harmful when it is found at ground level. Ozone can cause respiratory problems and is a major component of smog.

3.     Carbon monoxide (CO): A colorless and odorless gas that is emitted by burning fossil fuels. It can interfere with the body's ability to transport oxygen and can cause headaches, dizziness, and other health problems.

4.     Sulfur dioxide (SO2): A gas produced by the burning of fossil fuels and the smelting of metal ores. It can cause respiratory problems and contribute to the formation of acid rain.

5.     Nitrogen oxides (NOx): A group of gases produced by the burning of fossil fuels and other industrial processes. They can contribute to the formation of ozone and particulate matter, and can cause respiratory problems.

Air pollution can have serious health consequences, including respiratory and cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and other illnesses. It can also have negative impacts on the environment, such as the acidification of lakes and streams and the damage of crops and forests.

To address air pollution, it is important to reduce our reliance on fossil fuels, adopt more sustainable transportation options, and implement stricter regulations on industrial emissions. Governments, businesses, and individuals can all play a role in reducing air pollution by adopting more sustainable practices and supporting initiatives that promote clean air.

There are many steps that individuals can take to help reduce air pollution and improve air quality:

1.     Use public transportation, walk, or bike whenever possible: This helps to reduce the amount of air pollution produced by cars and trucks.

2.     Drive a fuel-efficient vehicle: If you must drive, choose a vehicle that has a high fuel efficiency rating, as this will produce fewer emissions.

3.     Use energy-efficient appliances: Appliances such as refrigerators, air conditioners, and lighting can be major sources of air pollution if they are not energy-efficient. Choose appliances that are Energy Star certified to help reduce your carbon footprint.

4.     Plant trees and other vegetation: Trees and plants absorb carbon dioxide and other pollutants from the air, helping to improve air quality.

5.     Support clean energy initiatives: Choose clean energy options, such as solar or wind power, for your home or business. Support policies and initiatives that promote the use of clean energy sources.

6.     Support policies and initiatives that aim to reduce air pollution: Advocate for stricter regulations on industrial emissions and support policies that promote clean air.

By taking these steps and supporting efforts to reduce air pollution, we can help improve the quality of the air we breathe and protect the health of ourselves and the environment.

Biodiversity Loss

Biodiversity, or the variety of plant and animal life in the world, is a vital part of our planet's ecosystem and plays a crucial role in maintaining the health and balance of our environment. Unfortunately, biodiversity is facing significant threats due to human activities, leading to a loss of species and ecosystems.

One of the major causes of biodiversity loss is habitat destruction, which occurs when natural habitats are destroyed or damaged by human activities such as deforestation, urbanization, and pollution. This destruction disrupts the natural balance of ecosystems and can lead to the extinction of species that are unable to adapt to the changes.

Another cause of biodiversity loss is the introduction of invasive species, which are non-native species that are introduced into an ecosystem and often have negative impacts on the native species. These invasive species can outcompete native species for resources and habitat, leading to the decline or extinction of native species.

Climate change is also a major threat to biodiversity, as it can alter the conditions of an ecosystem and impact the ability of species to survive and thrive. For example, rising temperatures and changing precipitation patterns can affect the availability of resources and the distribution of species.

The loss of biodiversity has serious consequences for both the environment and humans. Biodiversity is essential for the functioning of ecosystems and the provision of ecosystem services, such as water purification, soil fertility, and pollination. The loss of biodiversity also has economic impacts, as many industries rely on the resources provided by ecosystems.

To address the loss of biodiversity, it is important to implement conservation measures such as protected areas, habitat restoration, and the regulation of human activities that impact the environment. It is also essential to reduce our impact on the environment, through actions such as reducing our carbon emissions and reducing our consumption of natural resources.

There are a number of things that individuals and societies can do to address the problem of biodiversity loss:

1.     Support conservation efforts: One way to help protect biodiversity is to support conservation organizations and initiatives that work to protect threatened species and their habitats. This can include supporting organizations that work to protect endangered species, or supporting initiatives to create protected areas or wildlife corridors.

2.     Reduce your environmental impact: The activities of humans are a major cause of biodiversity loss, so one way to help protect biodiversity is to reduce our environmental impact. This can be done by using resources responsibly, reducing waste, and using environmentally-friendly products.

3.     Support sustainable agriculture: The agricultural industry can have a significant impact on biodiversity, as it can lead to the conversion of natural habitats into agricultural land and the use of pesticides and other chemicals that can harm wildlife. By supporting sustainable agriculture practices, it is possible to reduce the impact of agriculture on biodiversity.

4.     Educate others: Raising awareness about the importance of biodiversity and the threats it faces can help to inspire others to take action to protect it. By educating others about the importance of biodiversity and the steps that can be taken to protect it, it is possible to create a groundswell of support for conservation efforts.

By taking these and other actions, we can help to protect biodiversity and ensure that the planet remains healthy and productive for future generations.

Food waste is a significant environmental concern because it has a number of negative impacts on the planet. When food is wasted, the resources that went into producing, processing, and distributing that food are also wasted. This includes water, land, energy, and other resources that were used to grow, harvest, transport, and store the food.

In addition to the resources that are wasted when food is thrown away, food waste also generates greenhouse gas emissions. As food decomposes in landfills, it releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas that is about 28 times more effective at trapping heat in the atmosphere than carbon dioxide.

The environmental impacts of food waste can be significant. Some of the ways in which food waste affects the environment include:

·        Contribution to climate change: As mentioned above, the decomposition of food waste in landfills generates methane, which is a major contributor to climate change.

·        Loss of biodiversity: The production of food often involves the use of pesticides and other chemicals that can harm wildlife and ecosystems. When food is wasted, these resources are also wasted, leading to a loss of biodiversity.

·        Depletion of natural resources: The production of food requires the use of natural resources such as water, land, and energy. When food is wasted, these resources are also wasted, leading to their depletion.

To address the problem of food waste and its impact on the environment, there are a number of things that individuals and societies can do:

1.     Reduce food waste at the consumer level: One of the most effective ways to reduce food waste is to reduce the amount of food that is thrown away at the consumer level. This can be done by planning meals carefully, buying only what is needed, and using up leftovers.

2.     Support policies that reduce food waste: Governments around the world can play a role in reducing food waste by enacting policies that promote food waste reduction and recovery. This can include initiatives such as food donation programs and regulations on the amount of food that can be discarded by businesses.

3.     Support sustainable agriculture: Sustainable agriculture practices can help to reduce food waste by improving crop yields and reducing the amount of resources that are needed to produce food.

4.     Support waste-to-energy initiatives: By converting food waste into energy, it is possible to reduce the amount of waste that goes into landfills and generate renewable energy at the same time.

By taking these and other actions, we can help to reduce the impact of food waste on the environment and protect the planet for future generations.

Global Warming From Fossil Fuels                        

We are very lucky to have so much freshwater from our rivers. But less than half of that water is actually renewable which means that there are concerns about the long-term availability of fresh water. As well, we do things every day that pollute our freshwater resources without even realizing. This makes changing behaviors vital.

First with some easy ones…

•   Take shorter showers.

•   Only fill your kettle or pot with the amount of water you actually need.

These ones require a bit more work but are super impactful…

•   Production of clothes uses an insane amount of fresh water. Before you go out and buy new clothes, think about whether you really need them. Perhaps you can get an old article of clothing repaired. If you do need to buy something, consider second-hand clothes or clothes made from natural fibers instead of synthetic fibers, or at least avoid poor quality clothes that you will need to throw out after only a few uses.

•   Return your unused and expired medications to the pharmacy instead of flushing them down the toilet or drain, or even putting them in the garbage. Every pharmacy in US will take back your medications.

These ones are a bit more costly, but for good reasons…

•   Replace your chemical-filled cleaning products with natural ones. And if you’re feeling extra ambitious and economical, try making your own DIY Cleaner.

•   Replace your chemical-filled hygiene products with natural ones. We won’t even get started on the health benefits of this!

Really glad you made it to the end of this series. You may have found that you already do a lot of the actions outlined above- that’s amazing! If not, don’t stress out. Start with the novice actions and work your way up to the advanced ones over time. And remember, even if you decide to only take a few of these actions you can still have a huge positive impact on the environment!

GREENHOUSE GAS EMISSIONS

Pay extra attention here because this topic is extremely important. We’ve been talking about climate change for a while now, but we just can’t seem to slow it down. We all need to chip in to prevent serious impacts like flooding, forest fires, and more severe storms. So here is what you can do to help.

These will actually save you money and are super easy…

•   Turn off your air conditioning or heater when you aren’t home.

•   Turn off the lights when you aren’t in a room.

•   Wash your clothes less often. But when you do wash your clothes, put more clothes in each load and use cold water. It’s just as effective.

•   Hang dry your clothes instead of putting them in the dryer. This also helps your clothes last longer. If you do need to use the dryer, use a dryer ball. They cut drying time by 25%.

•   Only run your dishwasher when it is full.

•   Cover your pots when you’re boiling water and turn off the oven for the last few minutes while food is cooking (it will stay hot!).

Getting harder…

•   Start composting your food waste instead of putting it in the garbage. For people in houses this means using a green bin, and for apartment and condo dwellers, there is often a compost chute or other disposal method. One handy trick is to keep your compost in the freezer until you’re ready to get rid of it. This prevents leaking and bad odours.

•   When possible, use electricity during off-peak hours. This works for running your dishwasher, washing machine, and dryer, and taking showers. Check your electricity provider’s guidelines for schedule details.

•   Replace your regular light bulbs with LED ones.

Definitely the hardest, but you don’t have to go all-in right away. Even slight changes with these ones can make a huge difference because of how impactful they are…

•   Cut down on your consumption of meat and dairy. In terms of meat, stay away from red meat like beef and lamb.

•   Choose public transit instead of driving a vehicle. If driving is your only option, consider electric vehicles, hybrids, or more fuel-efficient vehicles. Lastly, make sure to carpool if you are driving.

•   Buy locally grown produce which travels a shorter distance to get to you.

Small Steps to Sustainability – Deforestation

DEFORESTATION

Deforestation is gaining traction in the media recently. Our forests are so important because they house an insane amount of the world’s biodiversity. As well, forests capture massive amounts of carbon dioxide and help slow climate change. So what can you do?

There are definitely some easy ones which you might already do…

•   Buy a reusable coffee mug to use instead of paper cups. This is especially important because some paper cups can’t even be recycled (if they are lined with plastic which most are).

•   Instead of paper towels, use tea towels for cleaning up in the kitchen and rags or cut-up t-shirts for cleaning up around the house.

•   Use washable cloth napkins instead of paper napkins.

•   Don’t throw out damaged, overripe, or oddly shaped produce; use it for things like smoothies and baking.

These ones take a bit more work but can be pretty rewarding…

•   Sign up for paperless billing when it comes to your banking, hydro, etc. and unsubscribe from junk mail delivery.

•   Use magazine pages to wrap gifts instead of regular gift wrap or other sustainable gift wrap options.

Level up with these ones. They actually aren’t too difficult since they just require you to be a more informed consumer and to make smart purchasing decisions based on this information…

•   Buy less furniture. Should you really need to though, make sure any wood furniture you buy is FSC certified. This means that new trees are planted in place of harvested trees which can reduce the environmental impact.

•   Stop buying food and other products containing palm oil. Palm oil farming leads to significant deforestation.

You don’t need to be famous or start an organization to make a difference. There are many things you can be doing in your daily life to make a difference and have an impact.

Don’t feel like you need to do everything all at once, try starting with the novice actions and gradually working your way up to advanced. Even if you only take a couple of the small steps and changes, you can make a huge positive impact.

PLASTIC WASTE

You’ve probably noticed single-use plastics getting a lot of attention in the media lately. That’s because plastic has some serious environmental impacts. A lot of oil is used to make plastic, and because of our limited recycling capacity, plastic often ends up being dumped into the natural environment, primarily our oceans.

Novice: A few things you can do to reduce your plastic waste…

•   Buy a reusable water bottle to use instead of plastic water bottles.

•   Refuse plastic straws. If you need them, consider buying a reusable alternative.

•   Use reusable cloth bags or even a backpack when buying groceries.

•   Check your municipal standards to ensure your waste is being disposed of properly. For example, black plastic and stand-up plastic bags can’t be recycled in a lot of counties in US and should be put in the garbage.

•   If you do need to buy food that has plastic packaging, buy in bulk rather than buying multiple smaller items.

Intermediate: If you want to do more than just that…

•   Buy reusable mesh bags for produce instead of using the clear plastic bags they provide at the grocery store.

•   Instead of using regular plastic wrap for leftovers, cover your food with bowls or plates. If you still want to use some kind of wrap, try reusable beeswax wrap.

•   Similar to using a reusable water bottle, buy a reusable glass food container to use at restaurants to pack up your leftovers.

Advanced: If you’re feeling really ambitious…

•   Rather than buying packaged food, consider using glass containers and buying some food in bulk without packaging, like grains, nuts, and seeds.

•   If you’re buying products in packaging that can’t be recycled in your municipality, find alternatives that have packaging which can be recycled.

You can build sustainably focused new habits and try a new challenge every month for a year. You’ll be surprised how much your life will change. Make a personal commitment, set a goal and achieve it. You often do it for self-improvement. Now, you can do it for social improvement.

Wise use of natural resources

•   Use less water

•   Harvest rainwater to water your plants.

•   Take shorter showers and turn off the water while you are washing dishes, shaving, or brushing your teeth.

•   Make sure all faucets are not leaking.

•   Use researchable batteries

•   Use energy-saving bulbs

•   One month buy nothing new, think about the stuff you buy from where it comes and where it ends

Effective protection of the environment, going zero waste

•   Don’t use your car for a month

•   Don’t use straws for a month

•   Use reusable bottles and bags

•   Recycle everything you can

•   Bring your own cup to the coffee shop

•   Use wood or bamboo instead of plastic items

•   Use natural cleaners instead of chemicals

•   Wash clothes in cold water or by hand

•   Use cloth napkins and handkerchiefs

•   Repair what you can

•   Compost organic matter

•   Reuse plastic bags

•   Don’t print paper

Social progress and recognize the needs of everyone

•   Abstain from something you like, save the money and donate it to people in need

•   Come up with an App idea every day

•   Write down at least one idea every day for 30 days

•   Don’t complain for 30 days in a row, if you do, restart your day count

•   Volunteer at a local center

•   Start an art project

•   Donate at least 10 books

•   Buy local for a month

•   Start a community garden

The challenge process

•   Identify why you want to do it

•   Set your own pace

•   Be consistent

Take responsibility for your daily action and latter you can take action for your community.

Welcome to part two. Ok, let's discuss 7 Easy Ways Students Can Go Green. This is part 2 of 2 episodes.

Let's get into it.

8. Walk or Bike More

In addition to helping you live a healthier lifestyle, trying to cut down on driving can help the environment and save you a lot of gas money as well. This is a great way to eliminate fossil fuel use in the United States.

               

9. Use Energy Efficient Light Bulbs

Try to switch your bulbs to energy-efficient compact fluorescent (CFLs) or LED bulbs. Though they may be a little more expensive, it’s worth it because they can last up to five times longer than regular light bulbs and are very bright, so you won’t need to turn on as many lights.

               

10. Save Energy

Set your thermostats a few degrees lower or your air conditioner a few degrees higher. You probably won’t notice much of a difference, but the environment will!

               

11. Eat Sustainable Seafood

Stay away from harvested or farmed fish or seafood that’s not sustainable. Choose sustainably caught fish as the other methods of capture can have disastrous impacts on ocean ecosystems.

               

12. Don’t Purchase Aerosol Sprays

With millions of beauty products out there, it’s easy to find products in pump sprays as an alternative. Try to look for items with environmentally responsible brand seals.

               

13. Think About Your Water Usage

Turn off the water while brushing your teeth, washing your face or shaving. It's estimated that, using an average number of 2.5 gallons per minute from the typical shower head, reducing your shower length by 4 minutes per day would save (assuming you shower every day, ahem) 3,650 gallons per year.

               

14. Support Better Brands

Look for and use beauty and cleaning products brands that are responsible in their production, looking for responsible brand seals.

               

15. Opt Out of Junk Mail

By opting out of mail, you can save resources and save yourself the hassle! You can get off most unsolicited mail lists simply by calling 1-888-5-OPTOUT.

DEFORESTATION

Deforestation is gaining traction in the media recently. Our forests are so important because they house an insane amount of the world’s biodiversity. As well, forests capture massive amounts of carbon dioxide and help slow climate change. So what can you do?

There are definitely some easy ones which you might already do…

•   Buy a reusable coffee mug to use instead of paper cups. This is especially important because some paper cups can’t even be recycled (if they are lined with plastic which most are).

•   Instead of paper towels, use tea towels for cleaning up in the kitchen and rags or cut-up t-shirts for cleaning up around the house.

•   Use washable cloth napkins instead of paper napkins.

•   Don’t throw out damaged, overripe, or oddly shaped produce; use it for things like smoothies and baking.

These ones take a bit more work but can be pretty rewarding…

•   Sign up for paperless billing when it comes to your banking, hydro, etc. and unsubscribe from junk mail delivery.

•   Use magazine pages to wrap gifts instead of regular gift wrap or other sustainable gift wrap options.

Level up with these ones. They actually aren’t too difficult since they just require you to be a more informed consumer and to make smart purchasing decisions based on this information…

•   Buy less furniture. Should you really need to though, make sure any wood furniture you buy is FSC certified. This means that new trees are planted in place of harvested trees which can reduce the environmental impact.

•   Stop buying food and other products containing palm oil. Palm oil farming leads to significant deforestation.

7 Easy Ways Students Can Go Green - Part 1

You know what it is to be green but, when you’re a middle school students, high school student or in college with a busy schedule, sometimes it seems like a lot of time and effort to becoming Eco-friendly. There are some simple ways you can help the environment that take little to no time or effort and can save you extra money in the process. Here are 15 easy ways you can live greener while you’re a student:

1, Take Notes Electronically

hankfully, the world is now digitally focused, and your studies can be, too. You’ll save money (and stop wasting paper) on purchasing notebooks and flashcards if you begin to electronically take down what you need to remember in class.

2. Decrease Meat Consumption

Eating less meat – even omitting it from a meal one day a week – can positively influence change. When you do eat meat, look for labels that specify free range, organic and hormone and antibiotic free.

3. Adopt Reusable Bag

Practices Take reusable bags to the store with you to grocery shop instead of opting for paper or plastic. It’s wasteful and unnecessary – and several bags with every grocery trip can add up to a whole lot of garbage over a lifetime.

               

4. Nix Bottled Water

Reuse old water bottles or purchase water bottles that you can refill instead of tossing out a new bottle every time you need to quench your thirst.

5. Recycle

By now, this should be a no-brainer. When you can, recycle. Whether it’s paper products, plastics or upcycling old items, it’s important to think about which trash can be saved from a landfill. This is a great way to protect our air and water quality.

6. Power Down

When you’re not using appliances or you’re not in a room, turn off lights and other electronics. An easy way to implement this is by connecting your electronics to a surge protector and flipping the switch when you leave the room.

7. Buy Less or Borrow

Only buy what you actually need. In a consumer culture, it’s easy to fall into overbuying habits. If you only purchase what’s necessary, you’ll not only be going green but saving green as well.

Welcome back to Litter Scout we are going discuss- Everyday Actions –Being a Better Consumer. This part five of a five part series. These are just quick things you can do.

Ok so what are Everyday Actions to being a Better Consumer.

Become a better consumer.

Every product you purchase can have bigger consequences. Choosing more wisely as a consumer is one way you can make an impact everyday.

Properly dispose of electronic waste, like old cell phones, to avoid the release of heavy metals into the environment.

Use electronics as long as possible.

Consider switching to shampoo and conditioner bars to reduce plastic pollution.

If you shave, consider investing in a safety razor to reduce plastic pollution.

The razor itself can last a lifetime, and the metal blades are cost-effective and easily recyclable.

Keep a reusable mug in your car or purse to use when you visit a coffee shop.

Some retailers even give a discount when you bring a reusable cup!

Avoid personal care products with plastic microbeads.

Examples include facial exfoliants or certain toothpastes.

Buy in bulk when possible to avoid excess packaging.

Use a broom instead of a hose to clean dirt and leaves from sidewalks and driveways.

Cut back on or avoid single-serving and single-use products.

Bring reusable bags when you go shopping to avoid single-use plastic bags.

When buying a new car, consider its fuel-efficiency and emissions ratings. If possible, buy an electric or hybrid car.

Drive slower to improve your car's fuel efficiency.

Ok, Today on Litter Scout we are going discuss- Everyday Actions –Being a Better Homeowner . This the Fourth of a five part series. These are just quick things you can do.

So lets look at Everyday Actions – Better Homeowner.

Be a better homeowner.

Whether you own or rent, you have some dominion over how you manage your household. Try these small steps to be a better homeowner or renter that can cut down your home’s electricity and water bills while also helping our planet.

Save water when you shower by turning off the water while you lather or shave.

Install rainwater barrels to collect rainwater to use in your yard.

Check the weather forecast before watering your yard to avoid watering before it rains.

Use a broom instead of a hose to clean dirt and leaves from sidewalks and driveways.

Line-dry your laundry whenever possible to reduce your energy use.

Keep your curtains closed during hot days to reduce cooling costs.

Buy rechargeable batteries—they can often be recharged more than 1,000 times.

To save water, turn the faucet on at a fraction of its full volume for tasks like handwashing.

Ok, Welcome to Litter Scout  we are going discuss- Everyday Actions –Help Nature Flourish . This the Third of a five part series. These are just quick things you can do.

Ok, so lets start. Everyday Actions – Help Nature Flourish.

Your choices directly and indirectly affect the plants, animals, and other organisms in your neighborhood and around the world. Learn ways to help them out.

When visiting a natural area, stay on the paths and do not collect or disrupt the plants, animals, or rocks. Collect any trash you encounter.

Avoid or limit the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers in your yard.

Plant native plants to encourage pollinators and other native wildlife.

Commute to work by bicycle if possible. Utilize public transportation or carpool as much as you can.

When visiting a natural area, stay on the paths and do not collect or disrupt the plants, animals, or rocks.

Collect any trash you encounter.

Avoid or limit the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers in your yard.

Plant native plants to encourage pollinators and other native wildlife.

Commute to work by bicycle if possible.

Utilize public transportation or carpool as much as you can.

Buy phosphate-free laundry detergent and skip the fabric softeners.

Use reef-safe sunscreens when visiting the beach.

Always pick up after your pet.

Waste runoff can contaminate local waters and harm wildlife.

Install bee and bat houses in your yard.

Today on Litter Scout we are going discuss- Everyday Actions – Your Diet.

This the Second of a five part series. These are just quick things you can do.

Ok, Everyday Actions – Your Diet

Learn how your diet is more than a diet

When you think about how much the average person eats in a year, it should be obvious that what you eat can have a big impact on the environment.

Reduce the amount of meat and animal products in your diet.

Animal farming is a significant source of greenhouse gas emissions, water use, water pollution, and land-use changes.

Start an organic vegetable garden.

Supplementing your diet with homegrown produce can reduce your carbon footprint.

Compost food waste to improve the soil in your yard.

Limit the amount of organic waste in landfills.

Make ocean-friendly choices when you eat seafood.

Buy local, organic produce whenever possible.

Organic production is generally less harmful to the environment, and local products have lower emissions from transportation.

Limit your consumption of products containing palm oil.

Palm oil is a major driver of deforestation.

Today on Litter Scout we are going to look at

Everyday Actions – Small Steps.

Today we are going to start a series called Everyday Actions. These are short easy to understand tips you can start today with.

Learn how to get involved with small steps

When you combine the small steps of many, they can make great strides.

Learn about some of the small steps you can take to reduce your impact on our planet.

Get involved with local environmental nonprofits.

Volunteer or give financial support to encourage community action.

Encourage your school, work, and/or place of worship to adopt green practices.

Donate useful, working items to local charities rather than throwing them away.

Learn the names of your local plants, animals, and watersheds.

Protect what you know!

You Can Make A Difference!

Researchers found that more than three-quarters of the methane emissions happened when both old and new gas stoves were turned off.  

According to a meta-analysis from 2013, children living in homes with gas stoves were 42 percent more likely to experience symptoms associated with asthma, and 24 percent more likely to be diagnosed with lifetime asthma.  

Each us has a responsibility to do our part in caring for the environment. Being proactive in your sustainability efforts should be your priority. You can do it in your home or your workplace.

Contain your recyclables. Preventing litter can be as simple as making sure your trash and recyclables are contained.

9. Be smart abot driving  your car. Try to plan and make one trip instead of several trips.

Bottled water makes large amounts of  plastic waste. It is better to use a tap water, filter them if you want to, and put in the refrigerator.

They say 100 billion plastic shopping bags are used in the US each year,  and only 1-3% of worldwide plastic bags are recycled. This means a huge  amount of waste, and lot of it ends up in parks, rivers, and wildlife areas.

Saving water in your home is another way to help.

Every stage of the food production process, from  packaging to shipping, uses energy. And certain foods leave a bigger  carbon footprint than others. Check out these tips for eating in a more  environmentally friendly way.

25. Grow a green thumb

More and more Americans have taken eating into their own hands by growing their own food. An estimated 1 in 3 U.S. households are flexing their green thumbs. Trusted Source Millennials in particular are jumping on the home gardening bandwagon.

The practice has a number of benefits: For one thing, it saves on the other kind of green. And people who grow their food without pesticides and herbicides spare the planet from at least some air and water pollution.

While cultivating a backyard garden might be ideal, even apartment dwellers can grow herbs on a windowsill or tomatoes in an indoor planter.

26. Go green

Cattle  use up the most land and produce more greenhouse gases than other  animals raised for food. That’s why the most eco-friendly diet is  meat-free, or at least beef-free.

Producing 2 pounds (the equivalent of 4 jumbo-sized fast-food burgers) of beef releases 132 pounds of greenhouse gasses. The same amount of peas? Just 2 pounds of greenhouse gasses.

27. Join the community

Get in on the farming lifestyle, no overalls or tractors required! Community supported agriculture brings farm-fresh ingredients directly to consumers.

Participants  sign up for a share. Every week, they pick up a box filled with local,  seasonal food from nearby farms. It’s delicious, nutritious, and  sustainable. See if there’s a CSA near you.

28. Avoid high-flying foods

Some  foods spoil so fast that they wouldn’t survive a long-distance truck or  boat trip; they have to be air-shipped to stores. That first-class  treatment comes at a cost. Flying foods produces 50 times more CO₂ emissions than sending them by boat. Trusted Source

Try  to avoid foods that are often air-freighted, like asparagus, green  beans, and berries. Unless, of course, they grow in your neck of the  country.

29. Switch protein sources

Some foods eat up  more land and resources than others. In general, meat, dairy, eggs, and  fish have a bigger environmental footprint than do plant based foods.

If you’re not into the vegetarian or vegan way of life, simply switch from beef to chicken and pork. Or, cut out a serving or two of meat a week to do your part.

30. Eat organic

The cost of organic food: 47 percent higher than conventional food. Trusted Source  Their environmental benefits? Priceless. The lack of fertilizers and  pesticides produces less pollution and higher quality soil — a win-win  for sustainability.

31. Make preservation your jam

Here’s  one surprising tidbit: Home frozen fruits and veggies stay good for up  to a year and a half. The key is to freeze produce at the peak of  freshness. Blueberry-topped oatmeal in January? Yes, please!

Freezing isn’t the only way to save fruit and veggies. Turn them into jams, or freeze-dry or pickle them.

32. Start small

Overhauling an entire diet at once is a recipe for failure. A much more realistic approach is to set small goals. Swap out vegetables for meat one meal a week, or make a small percentage of your produce purchases organic. Build from there.

Disposable plates, plastic forks, and ketchup packets are small, but they add up. Food packaging and containers create 39 million tons of waste annually — nearly one quarter of solid waste produced in the United States.

A whole lot of those containers end up in landfills, where they release more methane into the air.

The  good news is that many companies are becoming more aware of how much  food packaging they use and taking steps to reduce it (edible wrappers,  anyone?). Individuals can pitch in, too.

Check out the tips below to see how you can cut down on your packaging use pronto.

17. Carry your cups

As just one example, coffee behemoth Starbucks blows through 8,000 paper cups a minute, which adds up to more than 4 billion cups a year (and one major buzz!). Trusted Source

Here’s  where toting a travel cup can make a big difference. Starbucks and some  other coffee retailers will give you a discount if you BYO mug.

18. Bulk up

Bulk isn’t just a mantra for muscleheads. Buying in bulk buffs up the environment, too.

Consider  purchasing non-perishable foods (think pasta, cereal, and nuts) in  large quantities. One big bag of rice or pasta uses less plastic than  five smaller ones. Just be sure to seal them up well, so they don’t go  bad before you can use them.

19. Make it with metal

Cooks,  beware: Using a new disposable aluminum tin every time you bake a cake  or roast a chicken creates a distasteful amount of waste. Instead,  consider investing in some metal and ceramic baking pans that you can  re-use.

20. Let loose

Eliminate an easy-to-overlook source  of food packaging waste by buying loose tea instead of individual tea  bags and making a one-time investment in a tea infuser.

Beyond its eco-friendliness, loose tea is fresher and better for you. Tea bags stored for too long lose their nutrients.

21. Go naked

Buying  fruits and veggies is a smart move for your health. Wrapping each red  pepper and head of broccoli in its own plastic bag? Eh, not so much.

Experts  estimate it may take as long as 1,000 years for the average plastic bag  to break down. When turtles and other sea critters get their fins on  these bags, they sometimes mistake them for food, with fatal results.

Buy  fruit and veggies loose or use a disposable bag from home. Try to buy  other foods with minimal packaging (like cereal that’s housed in just a  bag, not a bag and a box).

If you do choose packaged  products, check the label to see if the packaging was made from recycled  materials. And be sure to recycle or reuse (see the next tip) any  cardboard, paper, or plastic packaging when you’re done with it.

22. Recycle, reuse

It may be tempting to toss every juice bottle and peanut butter jar, but you can easily repurpose plastic and glass.

Think  of them as free containers to plant seeds in, store the rice, nuts, and  other bulk goods you stocked up on, or to hoard all the extra pennies  you saved by recycling.

23. Get crafty

Sometimes there’s  nothing more satisfying than stripping a new product of its packaging  and throwing all those Styrofoam peanuts and bubble wrap in the trash  (after you’ve popped all the bubbles, of course). But these items can  easily be reused with a little creativity.

For instance, bubble  wrap can insulate plants from the cold and packing peanuts can be  stashed between blankets for extra warmth on wintery nights (unless  you’ve got kid or pets, then that would be a choking hazard!).

You could also just save ’em for the next time you need to ship something.

24. Forego the forks

If  you’re ordering takeout at home, there’s no need to get plastic forks  and knives. Use your own silverware. Also ask the restaurant to skip the  napkins, utensils, or condiments with your order.

                  

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