Earth is a very delicate system full of complex organisms that work to create the beautiful place we call home. Every year on April 22, we observe Earth Day to remind us of our duty to protect and care for our planet. We've all heard the saying "reduce, reuse & recycle," but here are some more tips from Outdoor Recreation that you may not hear every day:
1. Say NO to single use plastics
Did you know it takes about 20 years for one plastic shopping bag to decompose? It takes about 450 years for a plastic water bottle. If you recycle that same bottle, only 10% is recovered with 50% going into a landfill and the rest ending up in the ocean. Single-use plastics include anything that is used for a short period of time and then thrown away such as: plastic bottles, shopping bags, wrappers, plastic silverware, Keurig cups, and Styrofoam take-out containers. According to Greenpeace, microplastics are becoming one of the biggest problems today. By just saying no to single-use plastics, you can help reduce and heal our environment.
2. By using less water, you can save the ocean
How we treat our freshwater resources affects the health of our ecosystems. Both sewer and septic systems work best when they are not overloaded with water and waste. When these fail, bacteria and other problematic nutrients leech into ground water, local waterways and eventually into the ocean. By reducing the amount of water we send down our drains, we can cut down on the total amount of wastewater that we have to treat, thus supporting a properly functioning waste treatment system. It is even more important to reduce water waste outdoors. Much of this excess water picks up pollution and carries it into storm drains, creeks, and the ocean. According to the National Resources Defense Council, storm water and runoff are the #1 cause of beach closures across the country. (Read more HERE).
3.Say no to chemical cleaning products
Household cleaners are not typically thought of as pollutants. They are used inside the home to make the environment safe and clean. But, some of these products that are used to sanitize, degrease and wash dishes and surfaces are also harming our water. Most pollutants are removed from water by waste treatment facilities, but nitrogen, phosphorus and ammonia are dangerous water contaminants and do not get removed by this process. Instead, they enter the waterways and build-up causing accelerated growth of bacteria and algae. Instead, choose products that are listed on the EPA's website as safe. (Read more
HERE).
4. Compost your leftovers
Not only does composting save water by helping the soil hold moisture, it benefits the environment by recycling organic resources and conserving landfill space. Organic waste in landfills creates methane, a highly potent greenhouse gas. Compost can also reduce or eliminate the need for chemical fertilizers. It doesn't have to be as intimidating as you would think to start composting. The EPA's website breaks down how to compost in easy to read terms, even if you don't have a lot of space. (Read more
HERE).
5.Eat seasonal
Buying seasonal food has a positive correlation with eating locally, because they go hand-in-hand. This significantly reduces greenhouse gas emissions since your food travels fewer miles to get to your home. Seasonal food is also less reliant on chemicals. When you grow food outside of its natural season, you must grow a greater supply to meet the standards set by traditional grocery stores. Not only will eating seasonally help to save you money and the environment, but it is much healthier for your body as well. (Read more
HERE).
With all of the programs and resources available nationwide, living greener is possible! What are some ways you can improve your recycling and reduce trash? Post your tips in the comments! Stay tuned this week as we share more from Outdoor Recreation.
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