10 Tips for Helping the Earth

Although Earth Day is in April, at Galena Creek we believe every day is a great day to think about the Earth and make positive changes! Check out these tips to learn about small things you can do to improve our planet.

1. ​Reduce: The average American produces almost 4.5 lbs of waste a day (that's about three basketballs!). Reducing your daily waste will lessen the amount going to landfills. Therefore, lessening our global methane and carbon emissions. Being conscious of how much waste you produce is a great first step. Try to notice the things you throw away and consider if you can replace it with something reusable or with less waste. For example, if you use floss picks, considering buying regular floss next time, so you don't have to throw away plastic everyday.
2. Reuse: Using reusable containers instead of single use containers can have a great impact. The majority of single use containers are plastic and have negative effects on the environment. Bringing your own grocery bags and containers for the bulk section are a couple options. When you're at the grocery store, consider buying things in glass jars or other sturdy containers that are easy to clean and reuse.
   
3. Recycle: Recycling appropriate products such as paper, metal and glass gives those objects a second life. Pay attention to local rules and regulations to find out what you can recycle!
   
4. Turn off lights: Not only can turning off lights when they are not in use save money on your electric bill; but it also helps lessen harmful impacts on the planet!
   
5. Carpool: Another money saving option! Carpooling with coworkers and to community activities can lessen the wear on your car along with lessening your gas bill. The effects that carpooling have on the planet is great! Share a ride and save the planet!
   
6. Water conservation: Living in a dry desert area, it is important to conserve water. It takes a lot of resources to clean, purify and heat the water that comes out of the faucet. Water is a resource, and it is important to conserve and protect our resources. Consider taking shorter showers, turning the water off while you brush your teeth, and setting your sprinklers to come on at night when there is less evaporation.
   
7. E-waste: Electronics have a HUGE impact on our environment. Properly recycling unwanted electronics can give another life to those harmful materials. You can also consider getting your electronics repaired rather than replacing them when they still have life!
   
8. Sustainability: There are many ways to live a sustainable lifestyle. Switching to a vegetarian/vegan diet (even just once a week), biking instead of driving, and communal living are great ways to have a more sustainable lifestyle. 
   
9. DIY: Repairing that hole in your shirt, instead of buying a new one is a great alternative to lessen the impact on our planet. Gardening also is a great DIY project. Making things yourself is a great activity and guarantees you'll have something unique and special to you.
   
10. Buy local: Farmers markets and homemade items are a great resource. Buying local products lessens the miles and resources used to get those products into your hands. It also helps keep money in your community!