5 Simple & Surprising Ways You Can Help Save the Planet

It’s safe to say that by now, most of us understand the importance of protecting our planet from environmental harm. We recycle, buy reusable water bottles, and donate items rather than throw them away. Some people take it even further and drive electric cars, use solar energy, and shop with businesses that have an eco-friendly mindset.  But let’s face it, many of us are busy – and while we want to do our part, we want our contributions to be simple and practical.

If you want to do more to help save the planet without too much work on your end, there are some simple changes you can make. They require a little effort upfront, but nothing over the top. Let’s take a look at five simple, yet surprising ways you can help save our planet.

Make the switch to rechargeable batteries.

Switching to rechargeable batteries requires very little effort. Simply purchase packs in the most common sized batteries that you use, then switch them out when your current batteries run low. They may cost a little extra upfront, but you’ll ultimately save money with rechargeable ones. Plus, you’ll help the environment by reducing the number of hazardous waste materials that end up in our landfills.

Take your car to the car wash.

Need an excuse to take your car to the car wash rather than washing it yourself?  Well, here you go. The experts generally use much less water than you would. With those high-powered machines, the car wash will quickly and efficiently clean your car. And in some cases, they may even vacuum the inside out for you.

Use a dry erase board in lieu of a notepad or post-it notes.

Are you a notetaker?  Like to make to-do lists, grocery lists, or write notes for other family members?  Try a dry-erase board instead. It does the job effectively, plus you reduce waste. Another benefit is that it’s always right there in front of you, so you don’t have to worry about misplacing your notes.

Buy locally sourced foods.

Besides being healthier to consume, buying foods from local suppliers also helps the environment. Right now, food is shipped from all over the world. If more people chose to buy from local growers and farmers, there would be less energy required to transport it. Shopping at your local farmers market is one way to do this. However, you can also simply read the labels at the grocery store. Many stores carry local foods and they often post signs near it to let you know its local.

Eliminate single-use cleaning supplies.

Last, but certainly not least, eliminate those single-use cleaning products and tools such as Swiffer mop and duster sheets and Clorox wipes. A single Swiffer Wet Jet solution single-use sheet is filled with toxic chemicals like ethyl alcohol, Alkyl Polyglucoside, and Didecyl Dimethyl Ammonium Chloride.  Imagine thousands and thousands of these piling up in a landfill somewhere. Scary thought. Instead, and equally as convenient, switch to reusable mops and refillable eco-friendly cleaning products. It’s better for the environment, and for your home too!