We live in an age where most people are starting to value the importance of being eco-conscious and environmentally friendly. And while we all know about the hazards of plastic straws and disposable diapers, there are a bunch of other things out there that might be doing more harm than good.
Leaving Your Electronics Plugged In
We all know that you should turn off the lights when you leave a room, but were you aware that some of your devices are sucking energy even when they’re turned off? Electronics such as toaster ovens, microwaves, and televisions continue to draw power after you’re finished using them. This “Phantom Energy” can even account for up to 25% of your energy bill. It’s not good for your wallet, and definitely not good for the planet.
Choosing Plastic Straws
Okay - we know people have been shouting the dangers of plastic straws from the rooftops for a few years now. But allow us to be one more voice in the chorus. People in the United States throw away over 500 million plastic straws - EACH DAY. The problem is so dire that Seattle has officially banned their use in the city, and other metropolises like New York are following suit. Beginning next April, the entire country of England is ditching plastic sippers.
Using Chemical-Laden Laundry Detergent
There are so many detergents on that market that they all start to run together at some point. The fact is, most grocery store brands are packed with all sorts of fillers, artificial dyes, and gnarly, planet-harming chemicals. Make sure you are seeking out a brand that focuses on eco-friendly alternatives that are plant-based, biodegradable, and greywater safe — like Rockin’ Green Classic Rock Laundry Detergent. Made in the USA with high-powered, green-cleaning ingredients, this highly-concentrated powder formula is better for the environment than grocery store detergents and cheaper per load than most of the big brand names.
Chopsticking Around
Much in the same vein as plastic straws, chopsticks are also responsible for tons of trash every year. Taking it one step further, they are also a noticeable contributor to deforestation. China produces an approximate 57 billion pairs of disposable wooden chopsticks every year, which takes 3.8 million trees to supply. Opt-out of utilizing the wooden variety and invest in a permanent pair for your takeout.
Pooper Scoopin'
Picking up after your dog is absolutely the neighborly thing to do, but have you ever thought about the single-use plastic you’re using? Every year, tens of millions of plastic poop bags are used to clean up after our furry friends, all of which end up in landfills. Some companies have started to make bags that are quicker to decompose, though a shovel or claw-type pooper scooper is still the most eco-friendly choice.