We all have freedom of choices but not freedom of consequences. I love this saying, and it has a strong meaning when it comes to environmental stewardship.
We go through our daily lives witnessing and hearing about the human impact on our planet, and we all collectively contribute to its devastation. Increased pollution, global climate changes, shrinking and disappearing animal and plant habitats, overexploiting earth’s natural resources are just some of the consequences of our daily actions.
The good news is that each one of us can make a difference by raising awareness of our individual impact and making intentional efforts to minimize the negative effect on the environment and its ecosystems.
We can decide to make a change and embrace the lifestyle of cultivating environmental stewardship with responsible use and protection of the natural resources through conservation, preservation, and sustainable practices.
With this kind of approach and life choices we can make a better place for our communities and future generations, and be environmentally responsible community members.
Step 1
Increase awareness, learn and understand your own impact on the environment and what you can do to protect and conserve natural resources.
Step 2
Start developing habits and making positive choices that will help manage your consumption of the resources.
Step 3
Become a community leader by setting examples for others, and educate people about the simple ways to increase environmental responsibility.
Here are the 7 strategies that can help you become more environmentally responsible. Start by making small changes to your everyday routines and develop new eco friendly habits.
#1 Consume Less Electricity
Unplug and switch off electronic devices when not in use
Keep your lights off in rooms that are not being used and when you leave the house
Turn your air conditioner off when you are not at home
Turn down your thermostat when you go to bed
Limit opening the refrigerator and freezer doors
Wash and dry full loads of laundry
Consider using a clothes rack for drying smaller loads and synthetic garments
Switch to renewable energy sources such as solar and wind
#2 Conserve Water
Turn off water when you wash hands, brush teeth, or shampoo and condition your hair
Take short showers instead of baths
Wash your clothes only when dirty
Run your dishwasher only when it is full
Direct downspouts and other runoff water towards shrubs and trees, or collect rainwater and use for your garden.
Rinse your plates, pots, and pans after use; In case you forgot, soak them instead of letting the water run while you scrape them clean
Water your grass and plants in the morning and when it is not windy
#3 Minimize Use of Paper
Print less; Duplex printing and copying instead of single sided
Use reusable cloth towels and napkins instead of paper towels
Subscribe for paperless billing, electronic promotions, online magazines…
Buy recycled paper
Stop junk mail
Go paperless
Use digital subscriptions
#4 Reduce Waste
Practice 3 Rs, reduce, reuse, recycle to minimize waste, give materials a second life, and lessen our impact on landfills
Use reusable water bottles for drinking beverages throughout the day
Use reusable grocery bags. Keep them in the back seat or the trunk of your car
Purchase products that come with less packaging
Shop for local produce that doesn’t have to be shipped as far, refrigerated in transit, or packaged
Avoid using single-use food and drink plastic utensils such as forks and straws
Use reusable containers for food instead of ziplock type of bags
#5 Avoid Products with Harmful Chemicals
Use biodegradable household products
Use non-toxic cleaning products
Shop for cleaners, laundry detergents, and personal care products labeled “fragrance-free”. Be informed, “Unscented” does not always mean fragrance-free!
Avoid BPA containers and cans
Avoid use of toxic herbicides, pesticides, and fertilizers in your garden or at your lawn
#6 Decrease Carbon Footprint
Drive less
Use alternative transportation to school, practice, or work such as bike, walk, or carpool
Turn off your car instead of idling while you wait for someone
Avoid unnecessary braking and acceleration
# 7 Protect and Restore Natural Habitats
Volunteer and participate in tree planting initiatives, beach and waterway cleanups, or other activities that help protect and restore natural habitats.
Support organizations working on environmental protection
Spread awareness, lead by an example, take initiative in educating others about the importance of protecting our planet and inspire them to take action.
Check out these resources about environmental stewardship
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