The Earth has remarkable healing powers but if humankind does not take steps to live a sustainable lifestyle then things could reach a tipping point of no return. Climate change is becoming more pronounced every year and many scientists view the ecological developments as dire as the world’s population continues to overuse resources and inundate the planet with pollution. Sustainability is not just focusing on the environment but also the economic resources impacted by the current situation. Standards of living must change to save the Earth and its inhabitants. In this article, we will explore sustainability 101 so you can learn the steps to take to make a difference.

Learn Sustainability 101 Tips 

It is difficult to attain sustainability because most people must dramatically change their habits and maintain a positive outlook on the steps that they are taking. However, positive sustainable lifestyle changes help you live a healthier lifestyle and even save money, which are two undeniable pro’s. 

Here are a few tips for helping with sustainability 101: 

Say ‘no’ to fossil fuels!  

While this might not be entirely possible in all situations, you can cut back your use and dependence on fossil fuels. Efforts to cut fossil fuel usage can be as simple as carpooling to work, riding a bicycle or even using public transportation. The U.S. Energy Information Administration (EIA) reports that in a 2017 study, the average U.S. household uses $1,977 worth of gasoline per year. Clearly, the amount spent on fuel is considerable for most families. Imagine how great it would be if you could save money through sustainable means while also doing a positive thing for the environment. Science Direct has found that 336.53 million liters of gas could be saved every year through ridesharing or carpooling initiatives, which would have a huge impact on decreasing climate change. 

Practice water conservation

You might be surprised to learn that water is a non-renewable resource. In fact, in many parts of the world, clean water is non-existent. Yes, there are large oceans, lakes, and rivers but the water is usually not usable in an untreated state. Water obtained from lakes and rivers must go through a cleansing process. Ocean water requires purification and desalination. Every year, much of the world is hit by severe droughts. California is one of those regions that regularly undergo very harsh droughts that lead to severe water restrictions. When drought hits, farmers suffer, and the food chain starts to break down. 

You must do your part to conserve water if you want to focus on sustainability. 

• Conserve water by installing water conservation toilets and plumbing in your home. 
• Explore xeriscaping to reduce the need to irrigate a water-hungry lawn. 
• Take shorter showers
• Turn off the water while you brush your teeth or shave
• Use Energy Star rated appliances to save money with your washing machine and dishwasher
• Collect rainwater
• Water your yard only when needed
• Consider installing a drip irrigation system
• Cover your swimming pool to slow evaporation 
• Avoid watering hardscaping 

Live a minimalist lifestyle

You do not have to live without when living a minimalist lifestyle. Instead, you simply maximize the uses for everything that you own. Get rid of the things that you do not need. If you own fewer belongings, then you can live in a smaller space which helps you conserve energy substantially. Yes, you will live with fewer things when throwing yourself into a minimalist lifestyle, but the things you do have take on far greater importance and significance. 

Explore new lighting

Prior to 1900, people would rise with the sun and then they would go to bed when the sunset. This practice was done out of necessity in many ways. They wanted to make the most of the daylight hours. However, living during daylight hours was also a reflection of the lack of viable light when darkness fell. Oil lamps and candles were expensive so most people would just retire early. However, Thomas Edison changed everything with the invention of the lightbulb. Now people can stay up all night. However, lights take energy. One of the best ways that you can embark on sustainability is to explore new lighting for your home. You can opt for longer-lasting, energy-efficient lighting and bulb choices to cut down on power use and save on your energy bill. 

Use natural cleaners 

Chemical cleaners contaminate the world’s waterways and air. They can easily sneak past water treatment plants to invade the environment. Chemical cleaners create an extraordinarily strong chemical smell and release volatile organic compounds (VOCs) into the atmosphere. Using natural and non-toxic cleaners is not only a healthy option for the planet, but also for your family. 

Practice reduce, reuse, and recycle

Many Americans avidly practice recycling. In fact, most communities provide you with special bins to sort your recycling. You can recycle old glass bottles, cardboard, and aluminum cans. Landfills are overflowing. The decaying debris causes the release of harmful chemicals, including greenhouse gasses. However, recycling significantly cuts down on pollution. In addition, recycling helps to save natural habitats and prevent deforestation because there is a lower need for raw materials. Also, you should take into consideration the amount of energy expelled in creating new products from raw materials and understand that recycling saves energy. By reusing existing materials, greenhouse emissions are reduced and natural resources are reserved. 

Choose renewable energy

When living sustainably, your goal should always be to break away from the fossil fuel industry. One of the great ways to do this is to install solar panels for power and even a solar water heater. On occasion, the government provides tax credits if you opt to go with solar options. Many people are taking their quest for sustainability much further by opting to live completely off the grid. Without a doubt, choosing renewable energy reduces your carbon footprint significantly. You can even purchase an electric car. 

Learning sustainability 101 is not difficult. The above ways to live a sustainable life are just a few options. There are many ways you can help the world heal and live a happier, healthier lifestyle.