Do you aspire to aid in improving the world's vitality, but don't know where to start? It's easy to feel overwhelmed when it comes to reducing your environmental impact, but you don't have to live barefoot in a remote hut to bring about tangible change. The truth is, if we all play our part in reducing our waste and energy usage, we can collectively preserve the excellence of the earth. If you want to help protect the planet without the pressure of going entirely off the grid, here are some small steps that can help harness significant changes.
Drive Less; Bike and Board more
Transportation is the most significant source of carbon emissions in the United States; so if you live in a location that allows you to veto your vehicle on occasion, do it! Not only will it help reduce CO2 in the atmosphere, but it will also allow you to incorporate healthier modes of transportation into your routine; such as biking or longboarding to school or work. Not only will this switch help the heal the atmosphere, but it also gives you an extra opportunity to align yourself with nature. Boosting endorphins while improving the environment? Talk about a satisfying swap.
Use Ocean Friendly Sunscreen
SPF is essential in repelling the sun's harmful rays; but is your sunscreen also compromising the well-being of coral reefs? Two common chemicals found in most commercial sunscreens; oxybenzone and octinoxate, have been deemed hazardous to aquatic habitats by researchers. Up to 6,000 tons of sunscreen are estimated to wash into our oceans every year, so it's essential to make sure what you're putting on your skin doesn't pollute the sea. Instead of contributing to this potential catastrophe by using chemical sunscreens, try switching to a less-problematic mineral sunscreen; such as zinc oxide or titanium dioxide-based solutions.
Reduce Your Dependence on Disposable Items
It's no secret that single-use plastic is an eco-disaster. The world collectively produces 300 million tons of plastic per year; most of which is disposable plastic that gets thrown away almost immediately after consumption. Because most plastic is petroleum-based, it's not biodegradable and is bound to remain in a landfill and leach toxic chemicals into the ocean. Although it might seem difficult to abandon the ease of disposable items, there are plenty of eco-conscious swaps available; so you don't have to forgo convenience to help conserve the planet. Try making simple switches such as using reusable shopping bags, metal straws, menstrual cups, refillable water bottles, and glass Tupperware to help reduce rubbish.
Support Businesses with Similar Values
One of the most impactful ways you can implement your eco-conscious values is by being a mindful consumer. Here at Charming Shark, we value sustainability as much as we value style; which is why our jewelry never comes wrapped in plastic. By supporting companies that do their part to diminish environmental damage, such as minimizing waste and conserving water and energy, you are encouraging other companies to do the same.
What steps are you taking to reduce your footprint? Let us know in the comments below!
