Being environmentally conscious at home is an excellent way to ensure the sustainability of life. However, you can extend your efforts towards the area around your home. Our planet is our precious residence. We need to take good care of it, particularly when pollution, global warming, and other ecological problems prevail. It all comes down to our habits and actions; everyone can make great strides to preserve the environment. So, you should start beyond your domicile and take action. On that note, here are seven vital tips to improve the environment in your community.

1. Shop Locally

It is not difficult to go to the supermarket to pick, where all kinds of groceries, vegetables, and fruits are in one place. Nowadays, it is even easier with fast delivery right at your door. However, you can frequently find big crowds in supermarkets and hypermarkets, especially during discount seasons. To hit two birds with one stone, you should switch your shopping destination to your local vendors. This can help your environment more than you think. For instance, you get fresh food from the farmer’s market and reduce waste from packaging and delivery. Fresh food also means less use of transportation; hence, no exhaust is emitted into the atmosphere. Not only can you buy food items, but you can again buy other products in bulk and reduce the use of too much packaging at the same time.

2. Promote Recycling

Recycling is undoubtedly one of the necessary forms of environmental protection. You get to repurpose materials and put them into good use for a longer time. The next time you dispose of your trash, you should not throw everything in the, as you should separate your waste into categories first. After ensuring that you sorted out everything, dispose of waste into the recycling bin. Try to encourage your neighbors and friends to do the same. You can also encourage them to fix broken park trash cans and hand them recycling bags to inspire more volunteering action in your community.

3. Plant Trees

In addition to the beautiful green aesthetic they bring, trees are vital to the environment. They absorb carbon dioxide gas and emit oxygen gas, which all living organisms need to survive. The absorption of such gas also decreases the amount of carbon in the atmosphere. Therefore, they protect the planet from the worsening of global warming. Trees also help in providing moisture and lowering the temperature, creating an ideal atmosphere for living. The moisture also helps in reducing erosions caused by winds. Simply, by planting a tree, you help in reducing climate change, provide shelter for wildlife, and clear the air.

4. Purchase Sustainable Materials

When it comes to the culprits of endangering our environment, plastic comes at the top of the list. The main issue with plastic is that it is not biodegradable, meaning that it will cause great harm to marine and land life. Frequently we do find animals consuming plastic, as they mistake it for food. When you procure a product, it is better to acknowledge its impact on the environment. Fortunately, many companies are working hard to produce eco-friendly materials. The key is to find out the origins and recyclability of the products. For example, try to replace plastic bottles of water with reusable bottles; they are cheaper and more environment-friendly. While shopping, switch to fabric bags instead of plastic bags since they are made of polyethylene that harms the environment.

5. Volunteer

It is a fantastic feeling when you become a part of a positive change. Many cities have social service-dedicated NGOs that take significant initiatives. Their activities can help out in various ways. For instance, organizations plant trees, beautify neighborhoods, pick up litter, and raise awareness of preserving the environment. All you have to do is to look for the organization that appeals to you. Luckily, several organizations do their work on weekends, so you will indeed find the time for good deeds.

6. Participate in a Community Garden

Community gardens have been around for quite a lot. When you do not have sufficient space in your backyard or balcony, it is a good idea to join a local garden. It can be funded by city funds, donors, or grants. By planting a plot for yourself, you can harvest your fruits and vegetables, meaningless transportation, and packaging. Encourage your family, friends, and neighbors to participate and unite efforts for the ecosystem’s good.

7. Save Water

Small actions set in motion massive results that affect our life, more importantly, our environment. A prime example is water since it is a basic life necessity. Because the percentage of freshwater is very low compared to saltwater, we need to join our efforts into saving it. For instance, you can start by taking shorter showers, turning taps off while brushing your teeth, and avoiding excessive clothes. Always keep your plumbing system maintained to prevent contamination or loss of water.

Protecting our environment is an integral part of our lives. If every neighborhood started an initiative of its own, the world would be a better place. Making eco-friendly decisions is not difficult, especially with the development of technology. There is no time like the present, so it’s better to rally your family, friends, and neighbors and make the neighborhood greener!