How to Honor Earth for Earth Day
Take a Hike!
Nothing builds your appreciation for nature more than experiencing its majesty first-hand! Hiking is a cost-efficient way to enjoy the outdoors because shorter, "easier" hikes don't require more equipment than what you likely already have in your closet. Lace up your boots and get moving!
Build Your Garden
Gardening is a great daily(ish) activity that allows you to enjoy the juicy fruits of your labor. Growing your own food makes you more aware of what goes into it, both in terms of physical elements and effort. Grow herbs in the garden to freshly garnish your favorite dish, or gift them to friends to show your love.
Gift Plants to Loved Ones to Share the Joy
Nothing says "happy Earth Day" like a potted plant! Treat this holiday like you would any other major gift-giving holiday (we are looking at you Christmas) by giving friends, family, or neighbors a potted plant. There are many indoor and outdoor varieties available, and we especially recommend gifting a species that is difficult to accidentally kill, such as a cactus or succulent. A plant that can be directly moved/planted in to the ground is also a good option!
Start Composting
Composting is so much more beneficial to the environment than most of us realize, such as recycling refuse or reducing landfill waste. Read about the benefits here and here, as well as how to get started.
Minimize Plastic Use
Reducing single-use plastics is easier than ever now with so many great reusable substitutes on the market. Replace plastic drinking bottles with glass. Invest in brands that offer refills in recyclable containers vs. single-use bottles. Buy bar soap, shampoo, and conditioner instead of bottled liquid soap. Finally make the switch over to reusable grocery bags instead of store-provided plastic or paper. Invest in reusable kitchen storage, such as silicone ziplocs or Beeswax wraps. The options truly are endless!
Volunteer
While most events are halted due to the ongoing pandemic, some outdoor volunteer opportunities are picking up again, such as beach or park cleanups. Engage with your local environmental groups on social media to gain access to their volunteer calendar.
Reduce Water Usage
Some of us weren't taught basic water use reduction ideas when we were younger, and that's ok! It's never too late to start learning things such as turning off the faucet when brushing your teeth, shortening showers to 5 or 10 minutes, or heck, taking more baths! Who knew self care was so good for the environment?
Start Recycling
This one might seem elementary, but so many households do not recycle. No guilt trip necessary, because again, it's never too late to start doing your part! Here are some recycling basics, and remember, the more you do it, the easier it becomes, like riding a bicycle.
Don't Drive!
Opt for public transport when possible, or walk to work or run errands. Even if there is only one day a week that you can commit to not driving, that's a great start!
We hope you found something useful here! Don't be intimidated, one small step is still a step in the right direction in reducing environmental decay and treating the earth the way she truly deserves. Visit us on Instagram @houseables to share your favorite ways to reduce, reuse, and recycle!