9 Simple Things You Can Do to Help Save the Earth

What started as a symbolic lights out event in Sydney, Australia last 2007, Earth Hour has become a massive global environmental event which brought millions of people to take part in conserving energy for the planet’s sake.

Now on its 13th year, Earth Hour 2019 will once again celebrate the annual lights off event on March 30, 8:30 p.m. in over 178 countries all around the world. If you are eager to take part in this initiative, we listed 9 things you can do to save the Earth–even after Earth Hour!

#1. Turn off electrical appliances when not in use

Start off in your own houses by turning off or unplug all your home appliances when not in use. During daytime, you can open your windows to let the air and sunlight in instead of turning on the lights and air conditioner. 

This will not only lessen the electrical energy you use, but it can also save you money on electrical bills.

#2. Cut down paper production

Consider reusing papers by printing double-sided, reducing the font size to save document space, or lessen the use of hard-copy documents and use digital copies instead.

#3. Reduce. Reuse. Recycle

A very common practice of living an eco-friendly lifestyle is to reduce and recycle our waste. When going shopping, opt to use paper or eco-bags instead of plastic bags. There are some stores that now encourage their shoppers to use reusable containers to store in the products they bought.

Also, do not forget to always practice segregating your waste materials.

#4. Go DIY

Instead of using harmful chemicals for bathroom or kitchen cleaning, go for some DIY cleaning solutions made from ingredients you can see in the kitchen like baking soda, lemon juice, and vinegar. This is way more efficient and cheap that toxic cleaning solutions!

IMAGE Remodelaholic

#5. Save water

With a lot of water interruptions going on in the metro, it is best for you to save water. Try to lessen your water consumption every day by turning off the tap when brushing your teeth, consider taking a shorter bath, or use small flushes in the toilet.

IMAGE Wikimedia Commons

#6. Walk or bike to school or work

If possible, do not take unnecessary car trips. Reduce your carbon footprint by either walking or riding a bike to your destination especially if it is near. This will help you save energy, and also get you fit and active.

Also read: A Guide to Biking Around the Metro

#7. Do some composting

Have a garden full of blooming flowers and plants? You can turn your waste materials such as non-food scraps, dried coffee grounds, and eggshells into compost. It helps in providing good nutrients for your house’s flower or vegetable garden.

#8. Love local

Patronize local brands that promote sustainable lifestyle and offers environmental-friendly products. This also goes with local food products like vegetables. If ever, place one day of the week as meat-less day and eat healthier.

Also read: Eco-Friendly Shops to Check out for Your Holiday Gift Hunting

#9. Donate!

Lastly, if you have things you are not using anymore, you can donate it to a certain charity or foundations like old books, clothes, shoes, or toys.

Instead of just participating for one hour, why not do these simple tips for the long run? Do you have other Earth Hour tips you want to share with us? Comment down below!

---

Sources: Earth Hour, Africa Geographic, WWF, World Wild Life
Written by Deneca Ordinanza