Happy Earth Day!

Tuesday (April 22nd) is the 29th annual Earth Day. Take some time today to try to make the world–or at least your life–a better, cleaner place.

What are some nutrition-related Earth Day points?

1. Do you usually buy bottled water? One step you can take for Earth Day is to stop using bottled water and drink good ol’ tap water. Think of how much energy and waste saved if you just drank tap water. After all, there’s the energy costs of making the plastic, recycling it, and then there’s those who throw away the bottle instead of recycling it, increasing waste. If you are concerned that your tap water is not safe, talk with your city water plant or check online at the Environmental Protection Agency (there’s a ton of good info on this site). Most (90%) of our tap water is safe to drink, and you will be notified by your water supplier if your water is not safe.
2. Reduce/reuse/recycle eating utensils/food storage containers. Use a regular plate and wash it instead of paper or plastic. Use a coffee mug; if you usually buy coffee “to go”, invest in a coffee mug and get refillable coffee. Use reusable containers for food instead of containers that you would just throw away.
3. Use cloth napkins instead of paper napkins. Then all you have to do is wash them (only when there’s a full load of laundry, of course). I know it’s easier said than done, but give it a try. On that note, think about using a cloth handkerchief instead of tissues too!
4. Recycle your food containers–recycle aluminum cans, cardboard, paper, etc.
5. Buy products that have less packaging (instead of being individually wrapped inside a bigger container). For instance, instead of buying 100 calorie packages, buy a larger bag and portion them into different reusable containers yourself.
6. Use the microwave to cook small meals, as it uses less energy than gas or electric ovens.
7. Walk or bike instead of taking your vehicle places that are close by. Use public transportation if available in your town. You’ll be amazed at how fewer trips you realize you really NEED to take if you force yourself to rely on pedal power or the bus!
8. Take the stairs instead of the elevator/escalator. Not only is this good for the environment, it’s good for you!

These are just a few steps you can take to make the world a better place. See the US Government’s Earth Day site for more information.

_{Photo by LollyKnit}

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