With climate change on the rise, it is more important now than ever to reduce your carbon footprint.

Thrifting and donating 

Fast fashion is the third largest polluting industry. It emitted 10% of the global greenhouse gas emissions and produced 92 million tons of clothing waste. Thrifting is one of the best things you can do to help limit your carbon footprint. By doing this, it prevents clothing from ending up in the landfill, while also limiting the amount of clothing you buy from fast fashion companies. Although it takes a little more time and patience, it is a great alternative to your local mall or favorite online store.

Be conscious of what brands you’re buying from 

Although it’s easy to pick up the most popular or inexpensive cosmetic brand, it’s important to take a minute to research the ethics of the brand you’re considering purchasing. It’s best to avoid animal cruelty, free trade, child labor, and ingredients like palm oil, paraben, and siloxane.

Plant-based diet 

The meat industry produces the second most greenhouse gas emissions of any industry, next to transportation. Additionally, the industry treats animals incredibly unethically. They are kept in cages far too small, they are separated from their mothers, and they are physically abused. It’s understood that a plant-based diet can be more expensive, however, it doesn’t have to be. A plant-based diet can simply be reducing the amount of meat or dairy you consume, not cutting it out completely.

Reduce your plastic waste

There are many ways you can reduce your plastic waste. One of the best, and most simple ways you can do this is by using a reusable water bottle, reusing old plastic containers, and reusable grocery bags, using soap bars instead of bottles, and using fabric napkins over paper towels.

Compost 

Rather than throwing away old food, especially vegetables, make a compost bin in your backyard. Composting provides a large range of environmental benefits such as recycling nutrients, improving soil benefits, establishing vegetation, mitigating the impact of droughts, and reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Conserve water and energy 

Although this may sound complicated, it’s easier than you may think. Conserving water can be as simple as taking shorter showers and not keeping the faucet running. Conserving energy is as easy as turning off the lights when you leave the room or just utilizing the natural light in your home.

While being more environmentally friendly can be difficult at times, the benefits it provides for the environment and the world as a whole are worth it.