As there are more and more people in the world each day, they produce more and more waste. Much of that unwanted material is labeled garbage and ends up in a landfill or floats out to sea. Unfortunately, a great deal of what is buried underground or sinks to the bottom of the oceans does not break down quickly. Instead, toxins from basic household products seep into the soil and minuscule particles circulate the waters where they are consumed by fish or other aquatic life. Eventually, these pollutants work their way back into the human food chain. The good news is that there are solutions everyone can take. Even if you cannot achieve all of these suggestions, here are six ways you can be more eco-friendly starting now.

Recycle Recycle Recycle

Facilities that assist businesses, as well as general citizens in reclaiming or reprocessing materials, are becoming increasingly common. In addition, manufacturers are beginning to label their products so disposal is no longer a guessing game. Whether you run a company, a township or just a household, modern recycling equipment makes it simple to find the resources you need. It is not a mystery to sort your leftover containers once you understand the process and number codes. Further, there are now options for processing even the bulkiest materials such as tires and scrap metals.

Downsize

Society tends to focus on the bigger-is-better mentality, but if you are trying to reduce your carbon footprint, then the opposite holds true. Evaluate the size of your home and the number of belongings you own. If you are a single person, then you could probably get by with a one or two-bedroom space. As empty-nesters, you might want to consider moving to a smaller house. When you choose cozier quarters, you are cutting back on heating and cooling needs and therefore using less energy. Using less energy lowers the demands on natural resources.

Opt Out of Plastic

One of the most difficult challenges is limiting how many single-use plastic pieces you consume. It is admittedly easier to grab and go, but each time you say ok to a straw, container or bag that will eventually be tossed aside, you are contributing to the growing disasters impacting the ecosystem.  

Compost

Many people do not stop to think about the odds and ends on their plate at the end of a meal. Regardless of if you live in a rural or urban neighborhood, you can create a compost outlet. Some believe it is not possible to save debris without attracting unwanted pests but if done properly, that is not true. Keeping food remnants out of dumps helps to decrease the amount of methane released back into the environment.

Walk or Bike

When going by foot is a viable choice, choose it. If the area where you live does not have sidewalks or paths conducive to pedestrian traffic, reach out to government officials and push for additional green space for public use. Another alternative to going by car is using a bike to run errands that might be a little further away. The benefits of walking and riding include cutting auto emissions and increasing your physical health. 

Make Your Own Anything

A commonly forgotten way to curtail your production of needless refuse is to make things on your own. Upsourcing is a new and trendy way to hang on to clothing, blankets and towels otherwise ready for the bin. Likewise, many pre-packaged snacks that are bought for their convenience can also be made by your two hands. Instead of buying salsa in a plastic carton, visit a farm stand and bring back the fresh ingredients in a reusable produce bag. Ten minutes with a knife or food processor and you can pull out the chips for some dipping.

Not only is being eco-friendly vital for the longevity of the planet, but it can also be fun and creative too. Explore websites that offer savvy tips and become an advocate in your community.