Shopping

 

69.  Take your own coffee mug. When purchasing coffee to go, bring your own reusable coffee mug instead of taking one of their throw away paper cups. Even little reductions like this can make a big difference if enough people do them.

 

70.  Buy phosphate free detergents and soaps. Phosphates that find their way in to our lakes and rivers are responsible for the overgrowth of algae. When this algae takes over a body of water it chokes out the other plants growing on the bottom and causes a series of problems. Do your part to limit the amount of phosphates that end up in lakes and rivers by choosing detergents and soaps that are phosphate free.

 

71.  Don’t buy products made from PVC or vinyl. Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is used to make many household items such as shower curtains, flooring and even children’s toys. The entire process of making products from this material pollutes the environment – and they pollute the air in your house. Avoid these products altogether for a cleaner environment and a healthier home.

 

72.  Buy products that are made to last. We have become a throw away society. It seems that every day we create more products that are meant to be thrown in the garbage after only a few uses. Instead of buying something because it is cheap, buy something that is good quality and is meant to last. It will cost you more today, but you will be doing the environment a favor and in the end you’ll most likely spend less since you won’t have to replace that product as frequently.

 

73.  Buy products from companies that are environmentally responsible. Companies that use recycled materials and package their items with less excess waste understand the importance of protecting our environment. Speak with your money and let them know that you appreciate their eco-friendly mindset by purchasing their products. For other companies that are not doing their part, send them a letter to let them know that as a consumer you expect more from them. They won’t ever change if there is no incentive to!

 

74.  Opt for reusable shopping bags. A plastic bag takes an estimated 1,000 years to break down in the landfill. Think about how many you use every time you go grocery shopping. That is a mind boggling amount of waste! Instead, purchase reusable shopping bags that are made of canvas and take them with you when you shop. Alternatively, most stores have large cardboard boxes that you can pack your purchases in instead of using plastic bags.

 

75.  Buy second hand products whenever possible. You may be amazed at the items some people are getting rid of. Next time you’re looking for a product that you think may be available second hand, take some time to look in your local paper or visit websites such as craigslist.com. If you don’t see what you’re looking for, you can advertise for the item and have sellers contact you.

 

76.  Opt for vintage clothing and jewelry. Even Hollywood has caught on to the vintage clothing craze!  Next time you’re looking for a hot new outfit or the perfect necklace, consider a second hand store that has lots of stylish options from years gone by. You’ll save those items from being wasted and look great while doing it.

 

77.  Buy organic and all-natural products. In response to consumer demand, a lot of manufacturers are now making products that are organic or use all-natural materials such as bamboo. From clothing to hardwood flooring you can find almost anything that has been created in a more environmentally friendly way. Although you may pay a little more, it is worth the investment to know you are helping the planet with your choice.