If you’re searching for how to celebrate Earth Day? Then you’ve landed on the right article.
Every day is a great day to celebrate and be kind to the extraordinary creations found on this beautiful planet. However, Earth day can be a time to hone in and implement new behaviors to show our appreciation for nature’s beauty.
Here are 12 practical eco-friendly habits that you can sustainably implement into your routine today, and celebrate Earth Day every day.
How to Celebrate Earth Day at Home
1. Turn off Excess Lights
Turning off excess lights and using natural lighting when possible, can translate into lower energy costs.
While greater natural lighting can boost overall mood and productivity.
2. Shop Consciously for Clothes/Items
Shopping consciously can vary from:
- Purchasing second-hand garments
- Purchasing higher quality/eco-friendly items, if you’re financially able
- Questioning yourself prior to making a purchase (Such as: Do I actually want this item? Am I only buying this item for a one-time event? Am I only buying this item because it’s on sale?)
3. Use Reusable Items
Although reusable items tend to have higher upfront costs, their cost per use can be significantly lower than their disposable counterparts. Helping you to save some money!
Some reusable alternatives to everyday things could include
- Reusable grocery bags
- Silicone dishwashing sponges
- Cloth rags
- Reusable water bottle
- Silicone food bags
- Reusable makeup remover cloth
- Reusable coffee filters
4. Handwash/Line dry Clothes
Handwashing and line drying are not just for delicates.
They can slow the aging and overall worn-out process of your clothes. Thus increasing their longevity and the amount of use you get from your garments.
Earth Day Activities for Adults
5. Volunteer
Volunteering your time is a great way to get active and contribute to your community.
For example, here are some environmental base volunteer ideas:
- Organize trash clean-ups in your neighborhood
- Beach clean up
- Volunteer at an animal rescue and rehabilitation program
6. Enjoy the Natural Beauty of the Outdoors
Fall in love with nature and enjoy it simply by spending intentional time in it.
If you live in a big city you may find it more challenging to find accessible green space. For greater practicality, try going for walks during “slow” hours when the streets are a bit quieter.
7. Recycle
Here is a link to the Waste Management’s site on how to effectively recycle.
Some general rules that they’ve outlined:
- Recycle cans, paper, cardboard, and bottles
- Drain all foods and liquids from your recyclable products prior to recycling
- Do not recycle loose plastic bags or put your recyclable items in plastic bags
8. Ride Transportation Alternatives
Due to the characterization/ setup of many U.S cities and rural areas, it may not be feasible to walk or bike to and from places.
However, some great alternatives to cars include buses, trains, walking, biking, and carpooling.
9. Purchase Produce From Local Farmer’s Markets
In addition to supporting local businesses, buying produce from local farmers has a host of environmental benefits.
Local foods are transported at shorter distances compared to large grocery stores, reducing fossil fuel consumption and carbon emissions.
10. Conserve Water
Saving water can encompass:
- Taking shorter showers
- Turning off the tap while brushing your teeth
- Using the dishwasher or laundry machines only for full loads
11. Create Goals and Work on Them
Similar to other aspects of your life, you can create SMART goals to help you establish and sustain eco-friendly habits within your routine.
12. Expand Your Learning
Last but not least, learning how to celebrate Earth Day relies on expanding your knowledge.
To learn more about Earth Day and ongoing environmental initiatives, the Earth Day website is a great place to start.
Continuous learning maintains the fuel for sustainable habits and mindful living.
