Blogs about saving the planet are about as exciting to read as that college Calculus textbook.
So, instead of preaching about how much we’re damaging our environment, I’ve decided to make this easier to digest and list five small actions that over time can have a big impact on improving our world.
So wake up people! Do these five things for a cleaner Earth:
1. Start with a simple tee.
Instead of buying a cheap t-shirt, buy just one ethically made one. Warmer weather is heading our way and we all can use a classic tee. Pass on those twisty, wear-once, cheap ones and opt for a quality fair trade or responsibly made one.
Sure, the ethically sourced tee will cost more, but see how well it washes and how long it lasts. I guarantee you’ll begin to realize a cheap ten dollar tee shirt is nothing but a waste of ten dollars.
Plus, it may be just ten bucks to you, but it does thousands of dollars of damage to our planet.
(Our favorite MAJAMAS EARTH tops for WOMEN, MEN & MATERNITY)
2. Change your laundry detergent.
Some of the best known brands of laundry detergents contain phosphates, carcinogens and other chemicals that don’t biodegrade. Um, OK, I’m sounding preachy again, but honestly… do you really want this stuff in your water or on the clothes that have contact with your skin? Choose safer alternatives that are not only safer for us and the planet but smell a lot better than the polluting ones. (Our favorites: Meliora, Melaleuca Melapower & Seventh Generation Natural Laundry Detergent)
3. Plant a tree. Believe it or not, you don’t even need a shovel!
Sure, if you have the means and strength to dig a hole and plant a tree, go for it, but there are many companies like MAJAMAS EARTH that allow you to plant a tree for a buck when making a purchase.
Why do we need more trees? Well, they absorb CO2 and other pollutants. They store the carbon and emit clean oxygen to help us all breathe easier.
(Our favorite ways to plant a tree: Support Arbor Day Foundation or buy that better t-shirt from us and plant a tree with your order thru One Tree Planted. Look at you – checking off two things on this list at once!)
4. Support an organization fighting to save our planet.
There are some amazing organizations doing the heavy work for us to keep our planet healthy. The Union of Concerned Scientists, Natural Resources Defense Council, Earthjustice, Friends of the Earth and Ocean Conservancy work tirelessly to protect our planet and the species on it. Head to their sites and donate as little or as much as you can. Every bit helps and I guarantee you will feel empowered and happy supporting these organizations that do so much to help us.
(Our favorite organization: Africa Wildlife Foundation When you purchase one of our MAJAMAS EARTH Reclaimed Scrunchies, we’ll donate $2 to the AWF to help save the elephants and other majestic creatures!)
5. Get out there!
Maybe I’m spoiled living in Chicago because it has so many forest preserves, but taking an occasional walk in the woods, on the lake or even thru a park can be the best way to connect to our planet. There’s nothing like seeing an animal in its habitat, a bird hovering over its nest or even a bunch of green plants to make you appreciate nature.
We all need to realize we’re part of an eco-system and we must ensure we do all we can to help it thrive and stay in balance. Once we witness nature, we feel the need to protect it and getting out there is the best way to do that. (Our favorite outdoor activity: Forest Bathing)
It’s really all about living consciously and thinking about how our actions affect others. Using a phosphate free laundry detergent or supporting your favorite environmental charity doesn’t take that much work. I believe taking small actions can have big impacts and seeing it’s the official start of Earth Month, there’s no time like the present to start so get cracking… our planet will thank you!
– Germaine Caprio, Company Owner & Designer
Let ME know:
What are your other favorite eco-friendly habits for Earth Day & beyond?
Please share your own thoughts with us – let’s get a conversation started in the comments below!
A new way I’m trying to prevent waste is by refusing disposables at stores. I have been using my own tote bags at the grocery store for years, but last month, I bought reusable mesh produce bags. Also, on a rare visit to Starbucks last weekend, I asked if it were possible to have my cappuccino in a mug to stay: I assumed they only had to-go cups, but I was pleasantly surprised to enjoy my beverage in ceramic!
These are simple, great ways to help the planet. Thank you for sharing. My biggest challenge with grocery tote bags is remembering to bring them into the store. Inevitably, I leave them in my car and have to run out and get them before checking out. Good news is, I’m forgetting them less because it’s becoming a habit to have them now. Thank you so much. We welcome your input.