Although the term “Environment” is vast and varied, the basic modeling is combined by the physical environment and the biological life forms. Thanks to us humans and our never ending demands, the environment is now facing a number of problems that include Global warming, Ozone Depletion, Pollution in every form possible and Population. The Earth’s biosphere can’t take no more and it’s high time we did our bit to save the environment.
A few ways you could contribute to save the Environment
Quit smoking:
Smoking is one of the major indoor air pollutants and many people still have this life threatening habit. Although you want to continue with this habit and harm your health, it is definitely unfair to put the health of people around at stake. Prevent passive smoking by not smoking in indoors and while travelling in public transports etc.
Say no-no to plastic:
Despite everyone being aware that Plastic bags are one of the biggest contributors to global warming, we still use them quite carelessly and throw them away with organic waste or dump them in the land fill sites. It takes almost 500 years for a plastic bag to decompose and in the process it creates many harmful gasses; so reducing the use, recycling and reusing the plastic is very important to combat global warming.
Add house plants to your home:
A House plant not only adds to the esthetics of a room but also helps in maintaining temperature by adding moisture to the air and reducing airborne bacteria, fungi and other unhealthy pollutants. Plants refresh the stale indoor air by replacing the carbon dioxide we exhale with life sustaining oxygen. Two house plants per 100 sq. ft. will detoxify the air better than any disinfectant spray or air freshener. The pollutants are absorbed through the leaves of the plants, so it is advised to keep the leaves clean and have good air circulation around them. Since the filtration of the air is done by leaves, fast growing plants are seen to be more effective in refreshing the surrounding air.
Bugs coming to the plants is a real time problem and can be solved very effectively by using a green spray which is prepared by soaking citrus rind (lemon, orange) in water for 3-4days. Remove citrus rind and pour the water into a spray pump to spray on plants. Rose leaves can also be added to the solution to add fragrance.
Start your day early:
Previously, people used to wake up early so that they could finish all the work to be done before sunset. But now with the presence of electricity and artificial lighting one does not see any need in waking up early. From reports, 35 per cent of the energy consumed in a house in India is consumed in lighting a house after sunset. So, waking up early is not only going to keep you healthy but also will make you save energy and cut down your electricity bills.
Conserve water:
Water is one basic need of life and it is becoming an scarcer resource with every passing day. One should opt for an apartment which has water harvesting or if you have your own house then, get the water harvesting system installed. Switch to the latest low flush toilets, use shower wisely and run your washing machine and dish washer to the full load only, to decrease wastage of water.
Conserve electricity:
It is better to switch to Fluorescent light bulbs as they consume 75 per cent less energy and have more life in comparison to incandescent light bulbs. Make it a point to defrost your food before you microwave it and let the food cool down to room temperature before putting it into the refrigerator. Be sure to unplug your electronic devices like TV, computer etc before going on a trip because stand-by functions in them consumes electricity even if they are turned off. Switch your garden light to solar lights when possible. If you are buying a new refrigerator, air–conditioner or any other electrical appliances, you should check the star rating as energy efficient systems with higher star rating consume 10-50 per cent less water and electricity.
Kitchen waste management:
It seems disgusting to do kitchen waste management; but the advanced products in the market have made it quite easy. A stainless steel kitchen composter with carbon filters is readily available in the market which makes the whole process odorless. The compost generated acts a fertilizer that can be used for house plants.
Use Public transportation:
According to studies, 30 per cent of carbon-dioxide is added to the environment by private transportation. We understand that using public transportation is not convenient at all times; but one can always car pool. Try the option of walking if you have to pick bread from the grocery store or travel a small distance. Your little effort will help in reducing the demand for petrol, thereby reducing congestion on roads. It will also improve your physical health.
Save trees by reducing the use of paper:
If you are still used to buying the old fashioned newspaper, it’s high time you switch to the internet for news. Try to reuse one side printed paper by cutting it into two halves, to use them for writing your grocery list or making other notes. Replace the use of paper tissues by using hand towels.
