Three Tips for Making Every Day Earth Day

Saving the environment and protecting the earth can be a big job. If you think too much about it, it can be really daunting. The good news is, there are small actions you can turn into habits that will have a lasting impact. Here are top tips for easy changes you can make in your daily life. Start them on Earth Day and continue every day of the year.

Answer the question “paper or plastic?” with “neither.” Instead, bring your own reusable bags shopping, whether it’s to the grocery store or the clothing store. Store them in the trunk or backseat of your car and you’ll be sure to have them whenever you need them. And if you’re only buying one small thing, ditch the bag altogether. You’re probably wondering where you can get a great-looking Granger bag like this. Look for our booth at local events and you may be lucky enough to take one home.
Swap your cup for a mug. Visit your favorite coffee shop with a travel mug in tow. Keep a mug at your desk for those trips to the coffee maker. According to carryyourcup.org, the average American worker uses 500 disposable coffee cups each year. The most obvious benefit of a reusable mug is eliminating the waste of a disposable cup, but that’s not the only perk. (See what we did there?) Isn’t it a much more enjoyable experience drinking your favorite hot beverage out a “real” mug?
Just say “no” to straws. According to a Recyclebank® article, Americans use 500 million straws a day, and they’re difficult, if not impossible, to recycle. Not only that, using disposable plastic straws is for the most part unnecessary. So, what should you do? Chances are you don’t really need that straw and can just drink directly out of the receptacle. But if you really enjoy using a straw and find it more convenient, buy some glass or metal reusable straws. There’s a lot of jazzy styles and colors available and some even come with carrying cases so you can take them on the go. Although it may take a little getting used to, pretty soon it’ll be second nature to ask the waiter to bring your drink without a straw.