1. USE CANVAS BAGS.
Many stores now are selling inexpensive shopping bags made of canvas that you can easily fold and slip into your purse, so you don?t need to bother getting a paper or plastic bag. You can get them plain or with cute graphic designs.
2. SHOP LOCAL.
From clothes and accessories to fruits and vegetables, imported products involve the use of great amounts of energy. Aside from saving energy, buying local goods would help support local businesses.
3. LESSEN THE WORRY BY BUYING ORGANIC.
By buying organic products, you know what your body receives is all-natural, and many locally made organic products come at affordable prices.
4. GO VEGETARIAN FOR A DAY.
The meat industry is one of the most energy consuming industries today. Going for vegetarian options is an easy & healthy way to reduce your carbon footprint. Vegetarian options tend to be affordable as well. By devoting just one day a week to eating vegetarian can make a big difference.
5. COMMUTE OR CARPOOL!
There are LRT and MRT stations conveniently close to schools. The trains go through the same schedules every week, so one more persons on the train doesn?t add or subtract to the amount of energy consumed to maintain their schedules. You can also join a carpool, the best way to cut down on fuel consumption and make new friends.
6. UNPLUG THOSE CHARGERS OR USE A POWER SWITCH.
It may be convenient to have your cell phone charger constantly plugged into the outlet next to your bed, but keep in mind that whether it?s connected to your cell phone or not, it is still consuming energy and raising that migraine-causing electric bill. Or use a power switch to plug in all your gadgets so you can just switch off ones you are done charging.
7. TAKE A DIP IN THE POOL.
Summer means oppressive heat. But instead of making excuses for indoors with the air-conditioning forever on, try making swimming plans with friends. You?ll be getting that golden summer glow and exercising at the same time.
8. BROWN-BAG IT!
Bringing your own food to school is a simple and cheap way to reduce your carbon footprint. Mass-produced food tends to be wasteful. If you like to eat your lunch nice and hot from the cafeteria, bring your own container and utensils for the food.
9. RE-USE YOUR OLD NOTES.
You can cut up your old notes and re-use the clean side. Buy padding glue at your closest office supply store and you can stick them together into a conveniently sized notepad.
10. SPREAD THE WORD!
The best way to save the earth is by getting other people involved. No one likes to hear a self-righteous preacher though; don?t say it, demonstrate it! Suggest a carpool when you plan on going out with your friends, remind them to switch their lights out when you?re about to head out, offer the use of your canvas bag when out shopping. Little things done everyday can make a big difference!
For more information on Echostore and ways to recycle, visit G/F, Serendra Piazza, McKinley Parkway, Bonifacio Global City, Taguig; Opens 12 non to 10 p.m. daily; tel. no. (632) 901-3495; echolifestyle.store@gmail.com.
