Summer is a busy season full of fun. However, it can also mean a lot of waste and energy consumption. Whether you are cranking up the AC or using a lot of disposables, there are some small changes you can make to reduce your carbon footprint. Here are some easy and effective ways to make your summer more eco-friendly.
Choose Reusables
Whether you’re heading to the beach, going on a picnic, or camping, try to use reusable items. This includes things like water bottles, food containers, straws, and utensils.
Look for Local and Seasonal Foods
Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, seasonal produce from local farms, farmers’ markets, or even some local grocery stores. Choosing local foods supports your community and small businesses. Another great option is buying a share from a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture).
Reduce Energy Use at Home
Keep your home cool naturally by using fans, keeping blinds closed during the hottest part of the day, and opening windows in the evening for fresh air. If you need air conditioning, set it to an energy-efficient temperature and turn it down when you are not home. Make sure your home is well insulated, and use blackout curtains to block the sun’s heat.
Make Sustainable Travel Choices
If your summer plans involve travel, consider destinations you can reach by train, bus, or carpool. For longer trips, offset your carbon footprint by supporting eco-friendly programs or choosing accommodations with green certifications.
Use Reef-Safe Sunscreen
Many sunscreens contain chemicals that harm coral reefs and marine life. Choose a reef-safe sunscreen made from natural minerals like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. This is better for both your skin and the ocean, as well as the environment in general.
Plan Zero-Waste Gatherings
When hosting barbecues or parties, swap single-use plates and cups for reusable ones, offer cloth napkins, and set up clearly labeled recycling and compost bins to help guests dispose of waste responsibly.
I love these tips as they can help others learn how to be good to our planet. The reef-safe sunscreen is my favorite.
I try to always buy sustainable items and I love my reusable water bottles. They come in handy in this heat. We have reef safe sunscreen too!
These are some great eco-friendly tips, and I actually use a lot of them myself. I love reusable straws and water bottles; I even make sure the kids have them packed in their lunch boxes. We also keep the blinds closed and set a consistent temperature when running the air to help cut down on energy use.
Yes to the reef-safe sunscreen. That’s so important and an easy thing to do that people also (easily) overlook. Thanks for the reminder.
Thanks for these tips! I always bring a water tumbler with me everytime I go out of the house.
Loving these tips so much and appreciate you sharing them….. I do love bringing my own water bottle with me…. filling it with the yummy waster my home’s filtration system provides. Trying to live more sustainably is a good thing for sure and I appreciate you sharing these invaluable tips!