Eco-Friendly Begins at Home

(photo by Andonji Gabor on Unsplash)

With spring fast approaching, we tend to naturally think greener as we wish for warmth and blooms. This seems like a good time to talk about eco-friendly initiatives that are easy to practice at home.

Let’s start in the kitchen. Remember to use containers with lids instead of plastic wrap for leftovers whenever you can. If you have to use a piece of plastic wrap for fruits or vegetables, it can be re-used. Just set it aside on the counter for the next veggie wrap. If you drink half a glass of water, don’t throw the other half down the sink. Put it in your kettle or watering can.

Keep a green waste bucket handy for all peelings, meat scraps, bones, egg shells, and paper napkins. You don’t need to line it with a plastic bag; simply use a piece of newsprint or a paper towel, which can also decompose. If your city doesn’t have a green bin pick-up, then start a compost bin in your yard or strata complex and ask the gardeners to use the bottom layer every year. If you are planting something new, ask which shrubs are the most bee-friendly.

Around the house, use vinegar for cleaning or purchase eco-friendly products. It is good for washing windows too. There are many eco-friendly products available now, so read the labels for cleaners, hand soap, shampoo, and laundry soap. Buy recycled toilet paper whenever you can. Keep your showers as short as possible and turn off the tap while brushing your teeth. Use a bucket for washing the car to limit hose time.

I’m sure many of you have ideas for simple eco-friendly hacks at home. Please share one below and thanks for reading.