As we move into 2022, it's time to embrace social change. Here are ten actions you can take that benefit your health, the environment, and your finances. Climate change may seem daunting, but small, hopeful actions can drive real change.
Increasing extreme weather and water shortages can leave many feeling powerless. However, focusing on positive actions can boost your mental wellness and inspire those around you. Instead of merely sharing facts, consider altering your grocery shopping or installing solar panels to encourage new social norms. Every little action helps to create a ripple effect that can lead to meaningful policy changes.
Ready to create some social change? Some suggestions involve new habits, while others may require an initial investment that pays off over time. Here are ten impactful steps you can take.
Make the Most of Your Food—Reduce Meat Consumption
In the US, around 40% of food is wasted at various production stages, making food the top contributor to landfills. Reducing meat consumption, especially beef, can significantly lessen resource use.
To minimize waste: buy only what you need, plan your meals, freeze leftovers, make soups, and compost. Many areas offer composting programs for food scraps and soiled paper—check if yours does too!
Conserve Water
Even without a local water shortage, conserving water benefits your finances and the environment. Shorten showers, avoid running the tap unnecessarily, and only run full dishwashers. Modern ENERGY STAR dishwashers use as little as 4.25 gallons, compared to older models that consume 8-14 gallons.
Invest in ENERGY STAR Appliances
Upgrading to ENERGY STAR appliances can significantly lower energy costs. Check out this resource for eco-friendly upgrade ideas, from light bulbs to heat pumps.
Make Reusable Grocery Bags a Habit
Using reusable grocery bags may seem small, but consistency matters. After a local ban on single-use plastic bags, my community embraced reusable options. In 2021, a statewide ban on single-use plastics took effect, showing that community efforts can lead to significant change.
Buy Less, Repair, and Reuse
During the pandemic, spending habits shifted from services to goods, often feeding into the fast fashion cycle, which harms the environment. To combat this, focus on quality over quantity, shop second-hand, repair items, and promote reuse through local initiatives like your neighborhood Buy Nothing group. The Buy Nothing Project has gained over two million members this past year!
Minimize Online Returns
Returning items often leads to waste, as many end up in the landfill due to restocking costs. Before you click to buy, think carefully about your need for the item and the likelihood of returning it.
Consider Alternative Transportation
While driving is convenient, explore options like car-sharing, public transport, biking, or walking. Electric bikes are becoming popular; while they require an upfront investment, they offer savings on fuel and maintenance costs. Even reducing air travel can have a positive impact—skipping just one flight can equate to not driving for an entire year.
Wash Clothes in Cold Water and Air Dry
Many modern detergents and washing machines are designed for cold water, which is also gentler on fabrics. You save the most by minimizing dryer use—consider installing a clothesline! For ideas, check out Urban Clothesline.
Install Solar Panels
Switching to solar energy can save the equivalent of 18,000 miles of driving. Since 2014, solar panel prices have dropped by 70%, making them a viable option for many. By 2021, there were three million installations. Check out Solar Energy Industries Association for state-specific data and rebates.
Consider an Electric or Hybrid Vehicle
Electric vehicles are gaining traction—explore upcoming models. While they require an investment, you can find options starting at around $31,000, such as the Chevy Bolt, which includes a home charging station. Installation costs vary, ranging from $250 to $4,500 depending on your setup. The federal government provides a $1,000 tax credit, with potential state rebates available.
If full electric isn't feasible, hybrids deliver improved mileage, reaching up to 65 mpg. Since transportation is a leading source of carbon emissions, investing in electric or hybrid vehicles can make a real difference.
