6 tips for an eco-friendly summer
Summer is a great time to travel, enjoy the outdoors and soak up the sun. However, it is also important to be mindful of our impact on the environment at the same time. Here are some eco-friendly tips to consider for a sustainable summer:
1. Recycle your summer drink containers
In the summer months, shoppers purchase 36% more soft drinks than at any other time of year, to quench their thirst in the higher temperature. After spending a day at the beach, having a picnic in the park, or hosting a barbecue at home, you may end up with some empty drink containers. Instead of throwing them away, return your bottles and cans to a reverse vending machine (RVM) or bottle depot for recycling.
It is important to collect these containers for recycling, helping turn waste into a resource. As well as being able to produce new containers, it reduces the number of bottles and cans that end up in landfills or polluting the environment as litter.
2. Reduce energy consumption
Save energy and reduce your carbon footprint by minimizing your use of appliances this season. Many people are looking to cool their homes during the warmer summer months; reduce your air conditioning by closing windows and blinds during the day, and opening doors and windows during the night. While you're at it, use summer as an opportunity to cut your tumble-dryer usage; during the warmer months, hang clothes in the sun to dry instead.
In summer, like at all times of year, use energy-efficient appliances and turn off electronics when they are not in use. It is estimated that between 9% and 16% of electricity consumed in homes is used by electronic appliances in standby mode.
3. Cut down summer water usage
Conserving water is important, especially if you live in a region where summer can mean less rainfall. Take shorter showers, use a lower water temperature (no need for a hot shower in summer anyway!), fix leaky faucets, and consider using a low-flow showerhead to reduce water consumption.
Shortening your shower by just a minute or two can save up to 150 gallons of water per month. This not only conserves water but also reduces the usage of energy required to heat water.
4. Choose low-emission transportation
Another way to reduce your carbon footprint this summer is by using greener transportation: biking and walking are easier in the warmer summer months, but also look at options like public transport, and carpooling instead of driving alone.
By taking the bus, you can halve your emissions, and, by biking, you reduce them by two thirds. These transportation alternatives can also get you exercising and save you money on fuel.
5. Take 3 for the sea
Summer sees more people out enjoying beaches, parks and waterways – and more crowds can sometimes lead to more litter. In Australia, TOMRA Collection has worked with non-profit organization Take 3 for the Sea, which has a simple message for combatting litter.
“When you finish your day outdoors, take three pieces of rubbish with you, and make sure it ends up in the right place,” explains Christina Ek from TOMRA Collection. “If everyone participates, small actions can make a big impact in keeping outdoor spaces cleaner and more enjoyable to use, and ensuring litter doesn’t end up in the oceans where it can have a detrimental impact on marine life.”
6. Give your summer getaway a lower footprint
Plan your summer travels with eco-friendliness in mind. Consider travelling by train or bus rather than planes where possible. Choose accommodations that practice recycling, energy-efficiency, and water conservation, or have eco-certifications like LEED or Green Globe. When indulging in local cuisine, try some vegetarian or vegan meals once in a while to reduce your carbon footprint.
Or, consider a "staycation”, to explore local attractions and activities, instead of traveling out of town this summer. Staying home also reduces the carbon emissions involved in travelling to a new destination.
By making small changes to your summer routine, you can help to protect the environment, reduce waste and litter, and cut your carbon footprint. Consider these eco-friendly tips to enjoy a summer that’s both fun and environmentally conscious!
