Many of us are looking for quick and easy ways to help the environment. We know the planet is precious and we want to find ways to help, but we can also easily feel overwhelmed or discouraged. That’s where these handy tips come in!

Whether you’re at home or at work, wherever you spend most of your time, there are small ways you can still make a big impact. If everyone makes a small change, we will get big results.

Read the tips and suggestions below and see how many green changes you could make, whether it’s at work or just around the house.

AT HOME

1. Subscription

Composting can be one of the simplest and most effective ways to make food waste environmentally friendly. There are now compost bins in a variety of styles and sizes, which means they can be kept inside for easy use.

They no longer have to interfere with your decor, cause odor, or be kept outside, and are therefore less likely to be used. Compost bin designs have evolved to accommodate a more modern and environmentally conscious lifestyle!

They work by breaking down food waste in a way that means they can be used to greatly enrich the soil or be disposed of more safely. Food going to landfill not only adds to waste, but can also lead to huge emissions. Composting is a great way we can help out at home!

2. Use greener products

The cleaning products we use can have a profound impact on the environment and even our health. While some products have been specifically designed to be sensitive or hypoallergenic, others that achieve great results can still come at a hefty price tag.

They can aggravate skin conditions, respiratory problems, or cause toxicity in the water supply and oceans. Switching to greener alternatives, such as those that are natural, recycled, or at least do not use additional toxins or microspheres (plastic particles) is a better option.

3. Use leftovers

Food waste is one of the biggest areas of waste in the home, and beyond. You can make a positive contribution to the environment by taking advantage of your leftovers and reducing food waste.

Now there are a variety of delicious recipes that are specifically designed to use common leftovers, as well as affordable storage options that keep food fresh longer.

You can also extend this approach to other materials, such as electronics and clothing, by reusing, recycling, or reusing them instead of just throwing them away. You can share with family and friends, sell online, or transform a fabric into something new. Be creative!

AT WORK

1. Travel ‘greener’

The daily commute to work can contribute significantly to pollution and harmful emissions around the world. So much so that many governments have discussed alternatives such as incentives for the use of electric cars, construction of new bike paths and more.

But you don’t have to wait for them! You can get started right away by evaluating your own switch. Is there a way to make it more environmentally friendly or even beneficial for health? Maybe walking or biking to work is an option, even just a few times a week.

You may also consider switching to an electric car or group ride options. Many companies are even supporting and encouraging company-wide remote work. This is for a variety of reasons, but it also happens to be more environmentally responsible as it greatly reduces the number of people on the move.

Do your research on what would be the best option for you and take even small action!

2. Buying second-hand items

If you run your own business, you may have the option of buying key materials, supplies, or appliances that are secondhand. This reduces the number of items going to landfill and often costs a fraction of the cost of new items. It is more profitable and more ecological for your company!

If you’re not self-employed, you can encourage your colleagues and bosses to buy secondhand when possible or switch to items like recycled paper or reduced plastic. Where only small changes are possible, even implementing a recycling system or recycle bin can be a great way to start.

3. Turn it off!

When you and your colleagues are out of a room, be sure to reduce energy use by turning off light bulbs, water, power sources, and anything else that uses unnecessary energy.

It may also be possible to switch to more energy efficient light bulbs and alternatives.

With small but effective changes and a proactive approach, you can make a positive difference in the environment, whether at home or at work.