Greenhouse gas emissions and temperature changes are only some of the indicators of climate change. And the climate is changing at such a speed that you can see the damaging effects in the USA right now.
Because of this crisis, there are a few terms often used by environmental experts and activists, but you may not know exactly what they mean. For example, what is eco-friendly and what is sustainability? If you don’t know what they are, how can you be sure you’re doing the right things?
Learning more about living an eco-friendly lifestyle will give you the tools you need to do your bit to combat global warming.
This simple guide will tell you everything you need to know to get started!
What Is Eco-Friendly?
So, exactly what is eco-friendly, and what does it mean? When something is eco-friendly (a product, practice, etc.), then it is not harmful to the environment.
It is a general umbrella term to describe a range of reasons why something is not harmful. It could consist of recyclable materials, it might not use fossil fuels for its power, or it may be free of harmful chemicals.
Other similar terms include environmentally friendly, sustainable, and eco-conscious. Sustainable means something that doesn’t use up natural resources or something that offsets them. So, it fits under the eco-friendly umbrella.
How to Become Eco-Friendly
There are so many ways you can become eco-friendly and make energy savings in different parts of your life.
One way you can be more eco-friendly is by switching your home’s energy sources to sustainable energy sources like solar. Blueravensolar.com says installing solar panels is a lot more affordable than you might think. Plus, you could save money while using only clean, renewable energy.
Here are some other ways to be more eco-friendly:
- Cut down on single-use plastic and opt for reusable or compostable options instead
- Buy a car that runs on electricity instead of gas or opt for a hybrid
- Use reusable water bottles, coffee cups, silverware, and plates
- Upcycle or donate unloved furniture or clothing
- Avoid using harsh cleaning products made with dangerous chemicals
- Use recycled materials like paper, toilet paper, pens, and gift wrap
- Wash your hair and body with bars of soap, not liquid alternatives
- Carry a metal straw to use in your drinks to avoid plastic alternatives
- Compost your food waste
- Eat less meat and dairy and other foods with a big carbon footprint
- Hop on public transportation instead of private where possible
There are so many other ways to be more eco-friendly in your everyday life, as well as these examples. It’s unrealistic to do them all. But if everyone made small changes, that would make a huge positive difference to the environment.
Adopt an Eco-Friendly Lifestyle Today
Now you know the answer to the question, “what is eco-friendly?” you can be more conscious of how the resources you use affect the environment. So, you can choose more sustainable energy sources and products in the future.
Want to make sure you stick to your eco-friendly principles when you travel outside of your home? Browse our website for tons more environmental and travel tips!