Buying locally sourced produce can help reduce carbon emission that’s caused by transportation and refrigeration.
than veggies and the damage to the environment and health is equally high. u Support your local economy and buy locally raised, humane, organic meat, fish, eggs and dairy whenever you can. The further your food comes from, the higher the environmental impact as it requires transportation, refrigeration etc. u Buy only what is necessary. This also helps keep your monthly spending low be it food or other goods. u Learn to recycle organic waste to make compost for your garden.
CREATE OWN CLEANING SUPPLIES It’s no big secret, but our grandmothers used many homemade cleaning supplies that were easily available around the house. These will help preserve indoor air quality with less harmful and toxic emissions from store-bought supplies. u Use simple ingredients like baking soda, vinegar and lemon juice for general cleaning. u Tamarind juice can be used to clean metal objects.
SAVE GAS / FUEL
u Having a garden is great, but if it means excessive use of water to keep it pretty, think again. You could opt for drought-tolerant native plants that need minimal watering. uCollect rainwater to water plants, wash car, porch, drains etc. u Install toilet flush systems that have both half and full 52
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flush capacities. Better yet, use rainwater to flush toilets.
BETTER GROCERY CHOICES
pretty. Most of these goods get thrown away creating loads of refuse. Here are some pointers on how we can buy goods while helping preserving the environment.
Consumers often get sucked into impulsive buying and buy goods that they don’t really need especially if the packaging is
u If meat is a must in your meals, replace at least one meal a week with a meatless one. Consuming meat is certainly more expensive
Opt for public transport to work or appointments whenever possible. Alternatively, you could walk or bike to work if it’s close enough. You’ll also improve your cardiovascular health while saving money on petrol and parking. u Car pool to work or to send your children to school. u Exercise your rights as a citizen – petition to the local council to make better sidewalks and bike lanes for more green living options.