Planet A! June 2020 | Page 50

Here you are 12 small changes (one for each month) that can have a big impact on our environment. 1. Say no to plastic straws. Did you know that plastic straws are not recyclable? If you really need a straw, try the ones made from bamboo, paper or steel. 2. Donate whenever possible (eg. used items such as clothing, books and other household items) 3. Pass on the plastic bags. Marine life can easily mistake a floating plastic shopping bag for a delicious jellyfish. Try shopping with reusable bags or ask for paper ones instead. 4. Use less energy. Switch out regular light bulbs for energy-efficient, long-lasting LED bulbs. You’ll reduce your environmental footprint and your monthly energy bill. 5. Pack a smart lunch. Incorporate reusable containers and replace disposable bags and saran wrap with other sustainable material wraps. 6. Create a compost pile. Even if you do not have a backyard, you can still compost indoors without the smell. Your community may even have a composting program, so ask around to find out how to get involved. 7. Join your local Community Supported Agriculture (CSA). Here’s how it works: participants sign up for a share from a nearby farm and each week they can pick up a box filled with local, seasonal food from that farm. 8. Create a bee hotel. A great activity for the whole family, creating a bee hotel also helps threatened bee populations. 9. Say bye to the bottle. According to Brita®, 2,000 plastic water bottles are used every second. Try ditching your disposable plastic bottles for a reusable travel mug or water bottle. 10. Go thermal. Thermal curtains that feature a backing layer are designed to protect against heat loss in the winter and also heat gain in the summer saving you money and energy. 11. Swap your shower heads. Switching to a low-flow shower head will save water and lower your utility bills. 12. Recycle! Sounds simple, right? But according to National Geographic, 91% of the plastics we use aren’t being recycled. (Adapted from https://medium.com/solvaygroup/world-environment-day-fa37a33ce8d0) "Tips are so simple and effective. Everyone can give a try and everyone can be a sustainable consumer easily." Irem B. (EFFL) "We must use glass bottles to take water to school" Atakan Ö. (EFFL) PLANET A! | 50