Our choices define our lifestyle. Even our smallest choices set a long chain of events that directly or indirectly affects everything and everyone around us. The universe has always been kind to us and has provided for our survival, comfort, and nourishment. But we humans have adapted habits that continue to harm the environment. It’s high time we undertake initiatives and make choices that will have less impact on the environment. Even our small efforts contribute to a purer environment. Making even a simple lifestyle change in our daily life will make the world a better place for all of us. Here we list 10 things that we do that harms the environment and how altering our choices will help to reduce our impact on the environment. Call it your first step towards repairing the damage already done to the environment. So, this Environment Day, pledge to live in a cleaner environment and breathe pure air.
Using plastic bags
‘Avoiding the usage of plastic in any forms’ is one of the basic and important changes we need to adapt. Plastic in any form is hazardous as it doesn’t decay. Ever thought what happens to plastic bags and bottles when we are done with it and throw them away? They don’t biodegrade and no one knows how long it takes until it’s completely gone. These bags end up in a water body, polluting everything it comes in contact with. Make a habit of carrying a cloth bag in your bag.
Leaving the tap running
Whether you are brushing your teeth or washing utensils, leaving the tap running wastes a vast amount of water. A simple way to save water is by soaking utensils for a while before washing them. Also, while brushing your teeth make sure you don’t leave the tap running. To make others in your family aware, you can post notes beside taps.
Leaving the lights on
“Turn off the lights..!” is probably what you hear every day. Make sure you turn lights off even if you are leaving the room for few minutes. You won’t believe but it saves a finite source of energy. Again, until you and your family members get used to it you can post notes next to switches.
Boiling water using electricity
Boiling water using electricity is our everyday task, be it for your shower or to make a cup of coffee. The energy used to boil water using electricity is one of the expensive methods. A large amount of energy is required thus having an impact on the production end. Since a lot of electricity is generated via coal and diesel engines.
Leaving appliances plugged in
Slightly difficult to believe but appliances even when turned off, but left plugged in, use ‘phantom energy’. So next time when unplug devices – routers, computers, television, video games etc – when not in use. By following the practice you may end up saving few rupees.
Thickening sauces with cornstarch
Corn starches are often used to thicken sauces and gravies. These starches are made using genetically modified corn. You can use arrowroot powder as an alternative to corn starches.
Improper disposal of batteries and ink
Household batteries and cartridges contain mercury and toxic chemicals that can leak into ecosystems and damage the environment if not disposed of properly. These batteries and ink poison the soil and degrades the environment.
Using straws
When you are at the bar or anytime you go out to eat, you are placed at least one disposable plastic straw on your table. Ever wondered where do those straws end up? Probably a water body. And by using straws you are filling the pockets of those manufacturers who are killing the environment ‘one straw at a time’. What if you just lift the glass and put it against your mouth? Instead of plastic straws eateries can opt for bamboo or stainless steel straws.
Lip balm derived from petroleum
Made using waxes and petroleum jelly lip balms prevent moisture loss and maintain lip comfort. Lip balm often contains beeswax, camphor, paraffin, and petrolatum, among other ingredients. Petrolatum could be contaminated with Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHS) which are high in wildlife and environmental toxicity.
Cosmetic/hygiene products with microbeads
Today a large number of cosmetic and hygiene products including cleansers and toothpastes use microbeads as an exfoliant, a product designed to remove dead cells from the surface of the skin. These tiny little beads are harmful not only to your skin but also to the environment. They contribute to water pollution. These beads are consumed by fish and other marine life.