The average American throws away around 4.4 pounds of waste per day. This is a lot of waste that can be avoided by recycling or reusing items in our home that we no longer need or use. The goal is to reduce the amount of waste in our land. Some people are not aware that they can recycle items such as glass, plastic, and paper. The best way to recycle these items is to put them into the blue recycling bin so they don't end up in the landfill. The goal is to reduce the amount of waste in our land. Some people are not aware that they can recycle items such as glass, plastic, and paper. The best way to recycle these items is to put them into the blue recycling bin so they don't end up in the landfill. These are simple ways to live a more green lifestyle. 

1. Switch to eco-friendly laundry detergents and fabric softeners 

• Make your own cleaning supplies
• Reuse old baby wipes for other uses

2. Choose Sustainable and Eco-Friendly Building Materials When Renovating or Building a Home 

Renovating or building a home can be an expensive and time-consuming process. But, there are many ways to make this process easier and more sustainable by taking the time to do plenty of research on the items in which you're purchasing. Many stores can offer recomendations on eco-friendly products. 

3. Use Renewable Energy Sources Whenever Possible

Renewable energy sources are the best way to reduce the carbon footprint that we are leaving behind. There are many different ways to use renewable energy sources such as solar power, wind power, and hydroelectric power.

The use of renewable energy sources is increasing at an exponential rate. The growth of these sources is due to the fact that they do not produce any emissions of greenhouse gases and they are more reliable than other traditional methods of generating electricity.

4. Recycle or Reuse Items in Your Home That You No Longer Need or Use 

The Goal is To Reduce Waste In Our Land

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With Earth Day recently passing, I’m always looking for more ways that I could love an eco-friendly lifestyle. Below, I’m sharing a few things that I’m doing to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle.

Swap a French Press for Teabags and Coffee Filters
This year was the first time I used my French press to make tea. It was a total game-changer. I also use my French press, like a milk frother too. This French press had so many amazing uses.

Swapping plastic bags for reusable shopping bags
My state actually made this a little easier for me. They charge for plastic bags. I typically have bags that attach to my keys or purse, this makes it a lot easier to remember to bring my bag.

Swap out menstrual products for reusable ones
Swapping menstrual products took me years to do. I’m so happy that I made the switch. Not only does this save me money.

Swap plastic straws for reusable ones 

I've been using reusable and/biodigradeabl straws for a while now. You can pretty much find them anywhere, and they're super easy to clean, and usually come with their own cleaning brush. 

Swap single-use coffee cups for reusable onesThe key to using more reusable coffee or teacups is actually using products that you love. 

Swap plastic cutlery and utensils for stainless steel or bamboo

I was able to purchase a set this year from Target. You can pretty much find them anywhere.  

Swap Bottled Water for a water bottle
This was a really hard swap for me several years ago. However, my state started to charge for bottled water. Though it took years, I worked really hard to get to the drinking water. Because I love the water bottle that I’ve used makes it so much easier for me.

 

I'm always trying to think of ways that I can be environmentally friendly. However, it feels like I've never had this discussion on the blog. I feel like every day we can take steps to assist with the greater good of Earth. Today I'm sharing Six Ways To Be More Environmentally Friendly Year Around

Shop consignment 

There are so many consignment shops out there. With a quick google search, you can find those closest to you. I think that the biggest misconception with shopping consignment that all of the clothing is used and that all of the clothing is extremely worn. This is so far from the case. Most consignment stores only accept gently used items. I've found so many amazing pieces as low as $1. You're saving money and you're saving clothing from going into landfills.

Related Post: Thrifting Tips 

Use Paper-Less 

One of the first steps that you can take is going paperless with your bills. This is something that I still struggle with. However, I'm getting better at it. I also try my best to use digital coupons instead of printing them at home (when stores allow it.) I know most craft stores will allow you to pull up the coupon on your phone. It's super simple and it saves a ton of paper. Also use reusable mug/travel mug to decrease the number of paper products that you're using.

Recycle

I think we forget how much stuff we can actually recycle. Look for the recycle symbol on most items to ensure that you can recycle it. For the most part, you can recycle cans, cardboard, cartons, newspapers, cereal boxes etc. In the event that you're not sure, do a quick google search.

Use Reusable Bags vs Plastic

With stores like Target, Trader Joes and Whole Foods giving you money for using reusable bags. Why not?! You help the environment and getting money back for doing so. I typically leave reusable bags in my car and I leave a couple at home in the event that I need them if I'm going shopping with my sister. There are so many different styles of reusable bags. Some even can attach your keys and purse.

Save Money on Energy at Home

I wrote a post on how to save money at home on Laundry. However, you can easily save money not having every light on in your home that is not being used. Ensuring that you're using only energy efficient bulbs. Purchasing energy efficient products/appliances. Washing clothes and dishes when you have a full load. Allowing your dishes and clothes to air dry.

Related Post: How To Save Money on Laundry 

Compost Pile/ Bin

I think one of the biggest misconceptions about composting is that you have to have this huge space to do so. If you have a flower or vegetable garden you can easily sprinkle your eggshells in the garden. Instead of throwing your banana peels away. Place them in your garden. Throw your coffee grinds in your garden. Start off small and start off somewhere. You can eventually invest in a composting bin.

Do you have any environmentally friendly tips?