Climate change is destroying some of the most vital natural resources and ecosystems on earth, but there are ways you can help! Here are some things you can do to help lower the impact of climate change and make your household and community a more environmentally sustainable place:

 

1. Reduce Plastic Use

  • Switch to Reusables: Use reusable shopping bags, water bottles, straws, and containers instead of single-use plastics.
  • Buy in Bulk: Purchase bulk goods to reduce packaging waste.

2. Recycle Properly

  • Know What to Recycle: Check local recycling guidelines to ensure you’re recycling items correctly.
  • Clean Your Recyclables: Rinse containers to prevent contamination.
  • Separate Materials: Avoid mixing different types of recyclables.

3. Compost Organic Waste

  • Set Up a Compost Bin: Compost food scraps and yard waste to reduce landfill contributions.
  • Compost Indoors or Outdoors: Options exist for small apartments or large yards.

4. Reduce Food Waste

  • Plan Meals: Shop with a list to avoid buying unnecessary items.
  • Store Food Correctly: Use proper storage techniques to prolong food freshness.
  • Get Creative with Leftovers: Repurpose leftover food into new meals.

5. Avoid Disposable Products

  • Choose Durable Alternatives: Use cloth napkins, reusable coffee filters, refillable water bottles, and rechargeable batteries.
  • Ditch Paper Towels: Replace with washable cloths.

6. Donate and Repurpose

  • Donate Unused Items: Give away clothing, furniture, and other items in good condition.
  • Upcycle: Turn old items into new, useful products (e.g., jars for storage).

7. Shop Sustainably

  • Choose Eco-Friendly Brands: Support companies with sustainable practices.
  • Buy Secondhand: Opt for thrifted clothes and refurbished electronics.
  • Invest in Quality: Higher-quality items last longer and reduce waste.
  • Avoid Overpackaged Products: Choose items with minimal or no packaging.
  • Buy Locally: Shopping locally helps the local economy
  • Support Local Farms: Buy a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) share. By supporting local farmers by having a CSA means your food is local and seasonal

8. Reduce Energy and Water Waste

  • Use Energy-Efficient Appliances: Look for ENERGY STAR-rated products.
  • Conserve Water: Turn off taps when not in use and fix leaks promptly.
  • Use Renewable Energy: If possible, switch to solar or wind power.

9. Advocate for Change

  • Support Environmental Policies: Advocate for waste reduction initiatives in your community.
  • Educate Others: Share waste reduction tips with friends and family.

10. Participate in Cleanup Efforts

  • Join Local Cleanups: Help remove litter from beaches, parks, or streets.
  • Organize Your Own Cleanup: Rally neighbors to clean your local environment.

https://www.nature.org/en-us/about-us/where-we-work/united-states/delaware/stories-in-delaware/delaware-eight-ways-to-reduce-waste/

https://www.epa.gov/recycle/reducing-waste-what-you-can-do

https://www.nrdc.org/stories/10-ways-reduce-plastic-pollution

https://www.organicvoices.org/10-ways-to-reduce-waste-and-help-the-environment/