Here are 10 ways you can make every day Earth Day

By:

Nadine |

At Regional Recycling, we are dedicated to making it Earth Day every day. Our team is passionate about saving the planet and have put together this list of 10 ways tips we can all do from home. Let us know what your tips are in the comments!

1) Shop Locally

Small businesses are the heartbeat of British Columbia. When you buy from a local business, your dollar is helping support a local family. These earnings go towards things such as a child’s dance classes, new shoes, or making Christmas special for the whole family.

2) Upcycle & Swap Clothes

Do you have children? Then you know that they never stop growing and grow out of their clothes so fast that it can be hard to keep up with. An eco-friendly solution is to coordinate with friends and family to pass on gently used clothes as your children grow out of them.

Alternatively, a popular trend among adults is clothing swaps. Get together with your friends, bring clothes that are in good condition but you are tired of wearing, and swap as you please. You can leave with a whole new wardrobe!

3) Recycle old electronics & scrap metal

Many British Columbians don’t know they can recycle their old electronics, appliances, and scrap metals. Yes, from toasters to construction materials, scrap metals can be recycled. Check your local depot to find out which materials they accept and which ones you can earn money from.

4) Recycle your containers with Depozip

Recycling your beverage containers is simpler than ever with Depozip. You can schedule a free pick-up of your beverage containers at a time that is convenient for you. Since we are in the exciting pilot stage of this program, you can still receive the same return rate you would at the depot. Don’t miss your chance to earn easy money while protecting the planet!

5) Choose green cleaning products

Cleaning products for the home have evolved immensely over the last 20 years. There are now options for products that do not contain harsh chemicals and have eco-friendly packaging. Looking for products that use organic ingredients, recyclable containers, and are gentle on the planet.

6) Eat locally grown produce when it’s in season

Not only is in-season produce more affordable, but it also tastes better! When you eat locally grown and in-season produce, you support local farmers, cut down your carbon footprint, and feed your family healthy and delicious food. Check your area for Farmers Markets to find fresh local produce.

7) Bike or walk when you can

Especially now that Spring is here, walking and biking are fun and affordable transportation options. Skip the gas station lineups and prices and get your family walking and rolling to as many of your outings as possible.

8) Use LED lightbulbs

LED bulbs may cost more than incandescent bulbs, but they will save money over the long run, last longer, and use up to 90 percent less energy. By replacing your old bulbs with this eco-friendly option, you will likely reduce your electricity bill, and you’ll be using less power. Don’t forget to get the whole family in the habit of turning off lights and unplugging electronics when not in use; this also helps drastically reduce your carbon footprint.

9) Save the bees

Bees are a precious part of our ecosystem. They harvest crops, flowers, and wild fauna. Without them, humans and animals alike would struggle to grow food and create shelters. You can help protect the bees right in your own yard; Plant bee-friendly plants and don’t rake your leaves until the Queen Bees have hatched for the Spring. This is usually the end of April or the beginning of May, depending on how warm the temperatures are.

10) Compost

Composting is a great way to reduce what your family puts in the landfill. Many apartment buildings in BC also offer the option to compost right in the building. If keeping it in your apartment sounds appealing, remember that you can use any paper bag or compost bag and store it in your freezer. Or set up a compost bin in your yard to help fertilize your garden with nutrients from your meals. If this compost is nurturing your veggie patch, you’ve created a sustainable circle in your own backyard!

If we all make small changes, we can make a big difference! Help us make every day Earth Day by following these tips