Rewild's Little Green Book by Samantha O'Donnell

Rewildâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Little Green Book A Guide to Living Sustainably

Table of Contents

Rewild Definition................................................................................ 1 About Rewild........................................................................3 Mission....................................................................................3

The More You Know Major Environmental Issues........................................... 4 Causes for Each Issue....................................................... 5 Common Factor................................................................. 5

The Solution Mindful Purchasing.............................................................7 Recycling............................................................................... 9 Going Beyond Recycling...............................................11 Tips for Shopping............................................................. 12

Composting What is Composting....................................................... 15 Importance of Composting......................................... 16 Building a Compost Bin................................................. 19 What goes in a Compost Bin.......................................22 How to Care for a Compost Bin.................................24 When is Compost Ready to Use................................25 Where to Use Your Compost......................................26

Growing at Home Benefits................................................................................30 Things to Consider..........................................................32 Collecting Seeds and Regrowing Foods.................34 Foods That Can Be Regrown.......................................39

Sustainable Swap Around the Office............................................................42 Best and Worst Fabrics...................................................46 Clothing Care....................................................................50 Home Improvement and Gadgets............................53 In the Kitchen....................................................................54 Out and About..................................................................62 Self-Care and Medical Needs......................................66 Conclusion..........................................................................71

Rewild /rē’wīld/ Verb

To protect an environment and return it to its more natural state.

Rewild Rewild is an environmental organization dedicated to educating consumers and inspiring change. They offer easy at-home tips and tricks to living sustainably.

Mission Rewildâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goal is to provide the necessary information to allow consumers to live more sustainably. They aim to get others thinking about the consequences of their actions and the impact overconsumption has on the environment. Their efforts contribute to the regrowth of natural habitats and allow the planet to heal.

The More You Know Now more than ever the earth needs our help. Some of the major environmental issues we are dealing with include: • Air, soil, and water pollution • Climate change and global warming • Loss of biodiversity

The cause of each environmental issue

Air, soil, and water pollution Burning fossil fuels When burned, fossil fuels gat trapped in the air. They cause a major decrease in air quality. Improper waste disposal Human waste and other toxins are making their way into the ocean and other waterways. The foreign materials cause major amounts of damage to the inhabitants of that ecosystem and pollute the water. Leakage in landfills When substances like chemicals and pesticides are not disposed of properly, they can leak into the ground and contaminate the soil. Climate change and global warming Burning fossil fuels Fossil fuels are burned for the production of almost every product we consume. These dangerous gases get trapped in the atmosphere and warm the planet.

Loss of biodiversity Habitat destruction Whether it be due to pollution, overpopulated areas, or deforestation, habitats are being destroyed. M any species are suffering as a result.

Deforestation The most common reason for cutting down trees is to clear land for or gather materials for consumer products.

Overexploitation Excessive hunting and fishing as well as overharvesting are some of the major causes for loss of biodiversity.

What do the three have in common? Over consumption is a driving factor for all these environmental issues.

The Solution

The first step is to change the way we consume by being mindful with our purchases. Sure, bringing your reusable bags to the grocery store is a great start, but what are you putting in those bags? Are they sustainable products? Are they recyclable? Are they going to harm the environment? Even the smallest changes in the way we think about what we buy, can have a huge impact. Rewild challenges consumers to go beyond the reusable bags and look for ecofriendly products.

Recycling Sometimes we think we are doing the best thing by purchasing products in recyclable packaging. What many do not know is, many times these recyclables do not actually get recycled. The United States had been sending most of our collected recyclables to China, where they would be used to make new products. In 2017, China began to ban the importation of certain kinds of waste. This new list of banned materials includes most plastics. Many American consumers continue to purchase products that are contained in plastic packaging. After use, they add them to their recycling bin for disposal. They do so, thinking that they are taking the right steps to help the environment, because the importance of recycling has been engrained in the minds of United States citizens. What is not talked about is how these items are ending up in landfills, because there is no longer a need for them. Sometimes even containers that could be used, do not end up being recycled due to human error. Placing just one incorrect item in a recycling bin, such as a container with leftover food residue on it, can compromise the entire collection. The items are sent to landfills, along with other waste, where they break down and release toxins into the environment.

Do’s & Don’ts Are you compromising your recyclables? Check out the do’s and don’ts when it comes to recycling. Don’ts

Do’s • Most household glass items • Metal cans (Aluminum and Steel) • Some plastics Tip: Every plastic product is labeled with numbers one through seven on it. This is its Plastic Identification Code. Check with your local recycling service to see which plastics are acceptable. • Untreated and unwaxed paper and cardboard

• Eyeglasses • Glass and ceramic home décor such as vases or art pieces • Large plastic pieces like laundry baskets, chairs, or play sets • Most lids and caps • Materials soaked with oil, grease or other food residue • Plastic bags and wraps • Plastic medical waste like syringes and pill bottles • Plastic or Styrofoam containers, cups or plates • Plastic shower liners • Plastic straws and utensils • Propane tanks • Treated wood • Waxed paper and cartons

So, if recycling isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t enough, what can we do to beyond recycling?

Shop smarter. If any part of an item you are purchasing will eventually be thrown away, it is important to look for products that are not harmful to the environment. The best options include packaging that is biodegradable.

Start composting. These biodegradable purchases can be added to your compost bin. There are many benefits to composting, and it is an easy step towards living more sustainably.

Grow at home. If you have the means, start a garden at home. Use your compost to help your plants flourish.

Make sustainable swaps around your home. Think long and hard about the things you use every day. Do you use them once and throw them away? Is there a reusable or more sustainable option? Look to swap out some of the less sustainable items for better options. 11

Tips for Shopping

When possible buy in bulk. Fill your own reusable containers whenever allowed. Packagefree is best. When this is not an option, buying in bulk produces less package waste.

Look for Earth-friendly Materials • Low-impact natural fabrics (cotton, silk, hemp, linen, and wool) • Paper and Cardboard (unwaxed) • Plant-based materials like Cornstarch • Wood, wood pulp, and bamboo

Shop secondhand. Thrifting is a great way to save money and reduces the demand for new products. With less of a demand for new products, the amount of waste created during production is reduced.

Shop local and in season. Not only do seasonal foods taste better and offer more nutrients, but they also require less resources to get them to your grocery shelves. In season foods do not require as much preservation efforts. Locally grown foods do not require long distance transportation. Look into local growers and farmers markets.

Pay attention to company practices. Look for brands that care about the environment. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be fooled by greenwashing, instead look for brands with sustainable practices.

Buy high-quality goods. When you must buy new, it is important to always consider quality. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t be swayed by low prices. It is better to spend a little more on something that will withstand the test of time, than to buy something cheap that will need to be replaced time and time again. Buying better quality will not only help the planet, but also your bank account.

Composting

Composting is an important form of waste disposal. During the process of composting, organic waste breaks down naturally. The result of the decomposition is a nutrient-rich organic matter known as humus. When added to soil, compost can be very beneficial to plant growth.

Why is omposting so important?

One major benefit to composting is that it allows for less waste to be sent to landfills. Did you know that food and yard waste make up over 28% of what Americans throw away each year? Wood and paper products make up another 35%. This is a huge amount of waste that in many cases could have been composted. Instead these scraps are being sent to landfills in plastic trash bags, where they will sit for many years.

Composting can also help to lessen greenhouse gas emission and climate change. When these compostable materials end up in landfills, they can release methane. Methane is a potent greenhouse gas. When it enters the atmosphere before it is burned, methane has the ability to trap heat. Composting these materials instead can help to reduces the amount of methane in the atmosphere and as a result, helps to prevent climate change.

Adding your compost to the soil is very beneficial to plant life. Humus, the result of composting, is very nutrient rich. Adding it to soil enriches it and as a result allows plants to flourish. Compost helps soil retain water, making it easier for the plants roots to get the amount they need. It can also be used to fix and fertilize poor soils. The mixture can be used to grow food or just to enhance plant life around your yard. With more healthy plants on the planet, we again see a decrease in greenhouse gasses. The plants absorb carbon dioxide, one of the most significant greenhouse gases, during the process of photosynthesis. Composting has several positive outcomes that all work towards bettering then planet. Starting a compost is a very easy way to lessen your footprint. Composting takes materials that would otherwise sit in a landfill and puts them to good use. It helps to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and helps with plant growth. It is a great way to join in on Rewildâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission to help consumers live more sustainably and help the planet thrive. 17

Rewildâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Compost Bin Check out how Rewild was able to get creative with building a compost bin. Pictured is a mini laser cut bin. You can make a compost bin out of just about anything, so make composting fun by putting your own twist of your bin.

How to build a compost bin There are many compost bins available to purchase, but another option is to build your own at home. Of course, find or build the bin that will best fit your needs. Get creative. See what you can use around your home. Sometimes it is as simple as poking a few holes in an empty storage bin. All that matters is that we take the steps needed to move toward a greener planet. Rewild recommends this easy-to-build bin for beginners.

What you will need • 7 2in x 6in wood lengths, cut to 3ft. Your lumberyard will cut the boards for you. Untreated exterior woods work best. Rewild recommends Cedar.

• 4 2in x 2in wood lengths, cut to 3ft • 28 2 3/4in common nails or coated decking screws • Sledge or heavy hammer • Hatchet • Drill

How to Assemble

Using a hatchet, sharpen one end of each of the 2in x 2in pieces of wood. These pieces will act as stakes.

To make nailing easier and prevent the wood from splitting, predrill holes for the nails. Attach each 2in x 6in board to the stakes to form the square bin. There will be two rows of wood boards that wrap around the stakes forming a box like shape. 20

On the front side of the bin, nail only one piece of wood at the bottom of the bin to allow for easy access. For the sides with two boards, leave one to two inches of space between each piece to allow the air to reach the pile.

Set the bin in place by driving the sharp edges of the stakes into the ground with your selected hammer. Remember, this is a great option for beginners. You can modify your bin as needed or build a more complex system if you please. Every effort, big or small, can help the planet thrive.

What goes into a bin? Compost bins require a mix of dry, carbon-rich items and wet, nitrogen-rich items. Carbon-rich items are often referred to as “brown” items, while nitrogen-rich items are called “green items. The best mixtures are made up of equal parts of brown and green items.

Things that should never go in your bin • Anything that is not natural and biodegradable • Ashes from coal fires • Dairy products like milk, yogurt, or cheese • Diseased yard waste or invasive weeds • Foods that might draw animals to the bin • Glass, metal and plastic • Human and pet waste • Large branches • Raw meat or fish • Sticky labels from fruits and vegetables • Synthetic fertilizers • Treated woods • Waxed papers and cardboard 22

Brown

Green • Avocado pits and stale seeds (Ex: pumpkin, sunflower or sesame seeds) • Coffee grounds • Droppings and bedding from pet cages (herbivories only) • Fresh grass clippings, leaves, and garden pruning’s • Fruit and vegetable scraps • Loose leaf tea • Old floral arrangements • Old herbs and spices • Old jams and fruit preserves • Smashed jack o’lanterns • Spoiled pasta sauce or tomato paste • Spoiled soy, rice and nut milks • Stale beers and wines • Stale candy • Stale protein bars and powders

• Coffee filters and muffin cups • Cotton ball and cotton swabs (except swabs with plastic sticks) • Crumbs, dust bunnies and vacuum contents • Crushed eggshells and cardboard egg cartons • Dead houseplants and their soil • Natural holiday trees, wreaths, and garland • Newspaper • Nutshells (Except walnut shells) • Paper table clothes, streamers, plates and cups • Paper towels, napkins and facial tissue • Pencil shavings • Latex items (Ex: balloons, gloves, etc.) • Old rope, twine, and burlap sacks • Razor clippings, hairs, and pet fur • Sawdust, wood chips, and ashes • Scraps form all-natural fabrics (Ex: cotton, wool, etc.) • Stale oatmeal, breads, chips, crackers, and pretzels • Tea bags • Toilet paper, paper towel and wrapping paper rolls • Toothpicks and wood skewers • Unwaxed cardboard, papers, paper bag and envelopes • Wine corks

How to care for your bin Compost bins are very low maintenance. The most important thing to do is add only compostable items to the bin. Try to keep your greens and browns balanced and make sure your bin is getting enough moisture. You may need to add water to your bin during dry periods. Your compost should be damp but never soaked. Another important cares step is to turn your compost. Rewild recommends mixing up your material every three to seven days. 24

When is compost ready to use? It is important to allow compost to completely mature before adding it to soil. The final step of the process is called curing. During this step the compost is set aside. All the scraps that had been added to the bin are completely broken down and unrecognizable. If there are some pieces that didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t not break down, remove them and them to an active pile. This is called screening the compost. Once set aside, the pile is no longer added to or turned. Allowing the compost to sit will allow the mixture to cool. The lower temperatures will allow for beneficial organisms like earthworms to move into the mixture. These organisms improve the compost and the soil it gets added to. You can choose to allow the compost to cure for a minimum of three weeks or leave it sitting up to a year. The longer you can wait the more organisms are able to move into the pile. When the compost is ready to use it will be dark in color and have an earthy odor. It should not smell sour or like decomposition anymore. You can test its smell by bagging a handful of the matter and letting it sit for three days. When opened on the last day, the scent should a pleasant one. The pile will be about half its original sizes, as a result of the material settling. Lastly, the piles temperature will match that of the air, and it will be perfect to use around your yard.

Where to use it Compost has many uses. You can use it to improve plant life all over your backyard. Here are some common uses: Growing vegetables Adding a thick layer to vegetable beds in the fall is a great way to prepare for planting. Mix the beds contents in the spring. When planting your vegetable seeds, also add a handful of compost to each seed hole you make. Once your crops begin to grow, more compost can be added to the base of the plants to act as feeder. Your produce will thank you.

Amending weak soil Adding 1 to 2 inches of compost to the top of every 3 to 5 five inches of poor soil can help strengthen it. Compost can also be added to the soil in potted plants and other planters. As plants grow, even the best soils are stripped of their nutrients. Adding compost is a great way to improve soil and plant health.

Growing flowers Like with vegetables, you can add compost to your flowerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s beds in the fall. The compost will help to protect the plants roots during the cold winter. You can also add a top layer of compost to your flower beds in the spring to help them flourish.

Tree and shrub care Adding compost at the foot of a tree can replace the natural matter that would normally nourish it out in nature. Place a half inch to an inch of compost on the ground following the outward movement of its roots. Be sure to avoid placing compost directly against the bark of a tree to avoid rot. When planting a new tree, it important to spread the compost all around the trees base. If compost is only placed close to the plant sight, it will only encourage root growth in that small area. This will prevent the tree from growing tall and strong.

Replenishing grassy areas You can treat bald spots in your yard by incorporating compost. On each bald spot, add a half inch of screened compost and reseed the area. An option for helping your entire lawn get nutrients is to add a half inch of compost across the entire area using a spreader. Using compost when planting new grass can also be beneficial.

These are just a few of the ways compost can be used at your home. You might be thinking, what if I do not have a backyard? If you do not have a use for all your compost, but are still able to maintain a bin, look into local compost collection services. Many times, communities offer pick up and drop off services. Sometimes local farmers are even willing to collect your compost for use on their farms. These are great options for those who have no use for the compost. These options still allow you to be a part of reducing the amount of waste ending up in landfills.

Growing at Home

Another step towards living more sustainably is growing foods at home. No matter how much or how little you are able to grow, you will see a number of benefits that go far beyond just helping the planet.

Benefits Starting a home garden can be good for your health as well as the environment. Many do not consider all of the processes that go into growing your food. At the grocery store it is difficult to determine how sustainable the practices were behind growing your goods. You cannot know the exact chemicals and pesticides that were used during production or how these factors impact the environment. We must also consider the amount of fossil fuels required to transport our groceries. Buying locally is one way to decrease the environmental harm caused by long distance transports, but growing at home can eliminate the need entirely.

Foods grown at home are more nutritious. They are packed with vitamins and minerals that some store-bought foods can lack. It takes a lot of time for the foods on your grocery shelves to be harvested, transported, and then brought out onto the floor. During this period the foods lose a number of nutrients. When you grow foods at home, you know exactly where your food is coming from and how it was treated. You can grow organic fruits and vegetables and eat them at their freshest state.

Besides offering healthier food, gardening can help you to stay active. It can also help to improve your mental health. Getting out and being active is proven to help lessen anxiety and make you feel good. What is even better is you can get some exercise while surrounding yourself with nature. You can feel good about helping the planet and picking up a new hobby. Seeing your garden in bloom is also extremely rewarding, because it is a reminder of the good things you are doing for your body and the planet.

Another unexpected beneficiary to growing at home is your bank account. You can save a lot of money by starting an at-home garden. For the price of one vegetable you can buy many packets of seeds and grow pounds of that vegetable. You can even take some of the fruits and vegetables you have already purchased and regrow them for free. You will need to buy the necessities to help that plant grow, but even so, the cost will remain lower than the continual purchasing. You will be able to collect these foods from your backyards for many years.

Things to consider Large gardens are not for everyone. Do not be discouraged if you do not have the means to maintain one. Something as simple as growing a few herbs on your windowsill is still a step in the right direction. Do your best and start small to learn what works best for you. Also consider your location. Some of the food you love might not grow well where you live. For the things you cannot grow at home, try to shop local and make conscious decisions

Here are some of the fruits and vegetables Rewild recommends for beginners. They are typically the easiest to grow. • Bell Peppers • Carrots • Cucumbers • Green Beans • Lettuce • Pumpkins • Radish • Spinach • Summer Squash • Tomatoes • Zucchini

Collecting Seeds and Regrowing Foods Collecting seeds for your garden is very inexpensive, but did you ever consider growing from what you already have? Many fruits and vegetables from the grocery store can be regrown. Rewild recommends taking a look at the produce you typically buy and finding out how to regrow it. Here are a few examples of foods rewild has been able to regrow. Strawberries Strawberries are a good example of how you can collect seeds from the fruit you have at home. Locally grown strawberries will work best, because they are already proven to be successful in your area. You also want to use organic strawberries, because nonorganic strawberries can have chemicals sprayed on them that prevent regrowth.

Pick your strawberries. Leave a few strawberries aside to fully ripen. They can even be over-ripe but should not be moldy. You can also use the tops from the strawberries you have cut to eat if there are still some visible seeds.

Separate the seeds and flesh to prevent rot. There are a few ways to do this. You can romve seeds by rubbing them with a toothpick or using tweezers. Another way is to blend your strawberries and one liter of water in a blender. Seeds that float should not be used. After blending, move the mixture into a sieve and run cold water through it. This will break up the flesh and make it easier to collect the seeds. 35

Plant the seeds in large tray to germinate. Sprinkle the seeds evenly over the top of some soil. Next, cover the seeds with a thim layer of compost. Do not pat down and water finely. A mister works best because it will not move the seeds. Place your container in a warm sunny spot like a windowsill. Keep the seeds reasonably damp but never soaked.

Transport your sprouts. Once your strawberries sprout, it is time to move them to a bigger pot or bed. Germination should take two to eight weeks. Carefully move each sprout to its new location. They will do best in a sunny area with partial shade and soil with good drainage. Continue to fertilize with compost over the growing season for the best results.

Plant your runners. Runners are stems that run above the ground that will continue to produce fruit for many years. Plant your runners to ensure a harvest each year.

Lettuce Produce without visible seeds can be even easier to regrow. Lettuce is a great example. To regrow, you must collect the head of the lettuce. Cut the leaves from the head about one inch from its bottom. Place the remaining stem in a shallow bowl with about a half inch of water. Place the bowl by a sunny window. Replace the water every couple of days. After about four days you should notice the leaves beginning to grow back. Roots will also begin to grow. At this point you can move the head into a pot of mixed soil and compost. 38

Here is a list of other foods you can grow at home. Be sure to consider where you live and what can grow best in your climate. • Apples • Avocados • Basil • Bean sprouts • Bok Choy • Cabbage • Celery • Cherries • Chestnuts • Cilantro • Fennel • Garlic • Ginger • Hazelnuts • Lemon Grass • Lemons • Mushrooms • Peaches • Peppers • Pineapples • Potatoes • Pumpkins • Onions • Sweet Potatoes • Tomatoes • Turnips 39

Sustainable Swaps

Another important part of living sustainably is taking a look at the things we use each day and thinking about their impact on the planet. When we do this, we are able to see which of our routines create the most waste and from there make changes. Much of the time, these routines can include single use items that we pay no mind to. It could be something as simple as using a makeup wipe or sipping an iced coffee from a plastic straw. This is not to say that if we have and abundance of these disposable products, we should toss them out. Use up the resources you have and then make the swaps you can when its time to repurchase. Rewild has provided a handful of swaps that might help you to live more sustainably.

Around the Office

Swap out traditional highlighter markers for highlighting pencils. These pencils perform the same as the marker version, if not better. They do not bleed through paper, but still create a neon glow around emphasized text. They are better for the environment because they are made of wood instead of plastic. The pencil shavings can be composted while the markers can only be disposed as trash when used up. Switching to the pencil version allows less waste to end up in the landfills and reduces the amount of plastic items being manufactured.

Many people do not know that there are pens that can be refilled. Like pencil highlighters, swapping to refillable pens reduces the amount of plastic products being produced. These pens are easy to refill and end up saving you money in the long run.

How is Rewild doing their part? Did you notice our paper? It is handmade from 100% recycled paper. Some pieces even contain seeds that when planted, can help your garden fourish.

As temping as plastic mechanical pencils might be, it is important to stick to wood pencils. Wood pencils shavings can be composted, making them the more sustainable option. Though mechanical pencils can be refilled, each time you purchase new lead, it comes in a small plastic container that is then packaged in even more plastic. Overall, wood pencil create much less waste and are the more sustainable option.

Always opt for recycled paper. Often times recycled paper looks exactly like new paper and it serves the same purpose. By choosing recycled paper you are saving trees from being cut down and as a result are protecting the planet.

Switching to a staple-free stapler can have many environmental benefits. They reduce the need to make new staples and are better for recycling systems. Staples can often jam up recycling machines and make it more difficult to recycle paper. Who would have thought something so small could have such a large impact?

Best and Worst Fabrics

One thing we can do to make a huge difference is pay close attention to the clothing we buy. Not all fabrics are created equal. With fast fashion taking over, the quality of our clothing has decreased. People all around the world are being swayed by low prices and the latest fads. These goods are cheaply made, and they are not meant to withstand the test of time. As a result, many of these items purchased are used for a season or two and then thrown away. We are seeing that 80% of purchased clothing is ending up in landfills. When purchasing clothing we should be looking for higher quality goods and more eco-friendly fabrics.

Polyester is the most commonly used material for clothing. Polyester is a very low-quality materials made up of microplastics. Synthetic blends are equally as bad. They too are made up of harmful plastics, but because they are a mixed material, they cannot be broken down and turned into something new. Plastics are very harmful to the environment. Every time you wash a polyester item, microplastics are making their way into the ocean. It is better to steer clear of polyester clothing because of their negative environmental impact. They will not last a very long time and will end up as waste.

Another material that is not sustainable is leather. Many do not realize that its negative impacts go beyond harming animals. The processes that go into making leathers are excessive. First the cow must be raised using up many resources. Then when it is time to treat the leather for use, it is put through chemical baths. The chemicals used are extremely harmful to the environment and people. It takes many years for leather items to even be safe enough to compost. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s best to avoid them all together.

Organic Cotton is a good material to look for, because it can be composted and recycled. The problem comes when we buy nonorganic cottons. When growing nonorganic cotton, the process often includes a lot of harmful pesticides. These pesticides can make their way into water streams and cause pollution. Cotton in general can also take up a lot of land, but it is still a better option than synthetic materials like polyester. 48

Linen is another sustainable option. Linen is made from flax fibers. A large amount of flax can be grown per square acre, so this plant does waste a lot of land. It is all natural, high quality and compostable, making it an excellent option.

Hemp is one of the most ecofriendly materials around. Hemp can be used to make a variety of products that go even beyond clothing. It is a great material because you can grow huge amount of it in a small area. Unlike other natural fibers, hemp plants do not strip the land of its nutrients, but instead add to it. Hemp fabric is compostable, durable and has many uses.

Lyocell is another example of a sustainable fabric. It is biodegradable and made from wood pulp. It is a great option because clothes made from lyocell are taking old products and recycling them. These are just a few examples of the best and worse fabrics. Rewild recommends that you always research and inspect the fabrics you choose to purchase.

Clothing Care

There are many swaps we can make to make caring for our clothing more sustainable. One swap that can make your laundry routine more sustainable is installing a microfiber filter. These filters are easy to install and catch all the microfibers that come off of your clothing. Without a microfiber filter these fibers make their way into the waterways, because they are too small for water filtration systems to catch. Once they enter the waterways, they make their way to the ocean and up the food chain. These tiny fibers have the ability to cause major harm to aquatic life and the planet as a whole. 50

Soap nuts can be swapped for chemical filled laundry detergents. Soap nuts are dried shells that come from the soapberry. They contain a sustains known as saponin, that when added to your washing machine causes a soaping effect. Soap nuts can be used multiple times to clean clothes. They reduce the amount of chemicals making their way into the waterways and also do not require the large plastic containers that traditional detergents come in.

Adding dryer balls to your routines is sustainable because they help to reduce the amount of time needed to dry clothing. As a result, the process requires less energy. Line drying is even more sustainable if it is an option, because it requires no energy at all. Ditch the disposable roller. Rewild suggests this reusable lint and pet hair remover from amazon as an additional clothing care swap.

https://www.amazon.com/ChomChom-Roller-Dog-Hair-Remover/dp/ B00BAGTNAQ/ref=sr_1_12?dchild=1&keywords=reusable+lint+remover&qid=1588033966&sr=8-12

Home Improvement and Gadgets

Another swap you should consider making is a Bluetooth charging system for phones and other electronics. The reason this is a better option is because standard chargers are constantly breaking. Instead of buying new ones constantly consider a cordless version. It will work on many devices and not have to be replaced as often.

Reusable air filters are a swap that many people have never heard of. Typically, air conditioning units require users to change its filters monthly. By buying a reusable filter, you can save you a lot of money and lessen the amount of waste ending up in the landfills.

Rechargeable lighters are another great swap. Matches are always an option, but they are not the best for every situation. Typical plastic lighters are very difficult to refill. The constant purchasing keeps the demand of for these small plastic items high. Consider swapping to a rechargeable version to keep lighters out of landfills and never have to buy another one again.

Many people do not think of switching to Rechargeable batteries. The biggest issue with disposable batteries is that when thrown away the leak very harmful chemicals. People also often mistake them for being a recyclable item. When batteries make it to recycling centers, they are a great hazard to workers. Batteries can actually explode if they make into the recycling machines. This can all be avoided by switching to rechargeable batteries.

In the Kitchen

For many of us, coffee has become a big part of our mourning routines. Keurigâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s have become a popular household appliance, because they allow users to make a single cup of coffee. The creator of Keurig himself has come forward regretting his decision to use plastic pods, because of the amount of waste they are creating. If you own a Keurig consider switching to a reusable pod. They fit perfectly in the machines and can be filled with any kind of coffee you like. If you use a traditional coffee pot, there are also more sustainable alternatives you might consider. These include using a coffee sock, milk bag or cheese clothe instead of a paper filter. Making these changes means you will not have to repurchase and are saving the planet.

Loose leaf tea strainers are a great swap for tea drinkers. Though all-natural tea bags can be composted, it is sometimes hard to tell if your bag contains a synthetic material. You can avoid the confusion all together be using a tea strainer. They allow you to mix your own tea blends and their contents can be composted after use.

Another swap you can make is switching to a Sodastream. With a Sodastream you can enjoy all the delicious carbonated drinks you love without all of the packaging.

Charcoal sticks can be used to purify water. Many times, people buy large plastic water filtration systems to replace plastic water bottles. Britta Filters are among the most well-known systems. What many do not know is that these systems use charcoal to filter the water. Instead of having to replace the plastic filter every couple of months, consider using charcoal sticks. Using these sticks creates no waste because after use, they can be composted. They are cost effective, perform the same job as expensive systems and are better for the planet.

Looking for better quality pots and pans is another way you can live more sustainably. Most pots and pans are coated with Teflon which is a synthetic chemical. It is a hazard to people and the planet. Some of the best options include stainless steel, cast iron, and ceramic cookware.

Silicone baking sheets are a great swap to add to your baking routines. Not only are they a more sustainable options than parchment paper and oils, but they are also better at keeping your baked goods from sticking to your pan.

Silicon cupcake liners are another sustainable baking swap. They can be used time and time again, making them a more sustainable option than paper liners. Say goodbye to aerosol cans. It can be very difficult to dispose of aerosol cooking spray cans. Rewild recommends swapping to a Misto. With this kitchen gadget you can turn any cooking oil into a spray in seconds. http://www.misto.com/

When it comes to cleaning there are a lot of ways to make our routines more sustainable. One way is to make your own products. Many products are made up of the same ingredients. Instead of repurchasing a plastic bottle of cleaner, consider making your own solution.

Always try to find cleaning brushes and sponges that are ecofriendly. Natural sponges can be composted after use and so can wood brushes. Switching to these options are better for the environment, because they will not end up as harmful waste

Switch to eco-friendly dish pods. Dropps is a company that offers a sustainable version of dish and laundry detergent pods. They are delivered in a simple cardboard box that can be composted. This is a much better option than detergents packaged in plastic. https://www.dropps.com/collections/all-dishwasher-detergent-pods/products/unscented-dishwasher-detergent-pods

We should all be using hand cloths in place of paper towels. Think about how quickly you go through one roll of paper towels. When you buy more, they are almost always contained in a plastic film. Go wastefree by implanting a cloth system. Save money and the environment.

Glass jars, wax wraps and food storage containers are some of the best swaps for plastic wraps and storage bags. These thin layers of plastic can not be recycled and cause a great amount of environmental harm. You can use just about anything to store your food. Get creative and find out which sustainable swap works best for you.

Reusable straws have become more and more popular. Did you know that about 500 million plastic straws are used once and thrown away each day in the United States alone? Plastic straws can not be recycled and for something so small, create an enormous amount of damage to wildlife. Rewild recommends looking for metal or bamboo straws or better yet, ditch the straw entirely.

Trash bags can be a tricky necessity to find a sustainable swap for. Rewild recommends using a compostable version. Although they will not have the right conditions to be composted in a landfill, they are still made of more sustainable materials than plastic. You will also be supporting a brand that cares about the environment. Another option is using a reusable trash bag, but this is best fit for nature cleanups or camping.

Out and About

A swap that might seem obvious to some is ditching the plastic bottles. Invest in a highquality reusable bottle. Insulated bottles are Rewildâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favorite, because they keep drinks hot or cold. This is something a plastic bottle can not do. Plastic bottles are littering the whole planet and they are such an unnecessary item. It is expected that in the next ten years the amount of plastic in the ocean will out way the number of fish. Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t add to the problem. Find the best bottle for you.

Swap out single-use cups from coffee shops and restaurants with a reusable reversion whenever possible. A collapsible cup can be a great swap because it easy to throw in your bag and takes up very little space. Another option is to bring your own mug.

Bringing your own reusable utensils is another great habit to get into. There are many utensils sets on the market, but this swap can be as simple as bringing a fork and knife from home. Have a set on hand to avoid single-use plastics when you are out and about.

Another seemingly obvious swap is bringing reusable bags with you to the grocery store. Sometimes the smaller reusable produce bags are forgotten about. These are both great swaps for plastic bag, but always remember it is also important to consider what we fill these bags with. Shop smart!

One other swap to consider is your mode of transportation. Try biking and walking when possible. Share a ride. Map out your route when doing errands to drive as little as possible. Being more mindful with our driving can have a huge impact on the planet.

Self-Care and Medical Needs

All natural toothbrushes are a great swap for plastic ones. They are usually made from bamboo and boarsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; hair. They are compostable and last much longer than plastic toothbrushes, making them much better for the environment.

Toothpaste tablets eliminate the need for plastic toothpaste tubes. Simply crush them in your mouth and brush as normal. They work just the same, but are a more sustainable option.

Did you know that most gum contains plastic? That is why you are able to chew it for so long. Switching to a biodegradable gum is much better for your health and the planet. Pick up a Waterpik. Floss and plastic floss picks are bad for the environment because they are used once and thrown away. If they are accidently recycled, they can get tangled in machines and break them. Opt for a water flosser if youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like a greener alternative. https://www.walmart.com/ip/Waterpik-Ultra-Countertop-Water-Flosser-WP-100-White/5740917

Natural sponges and wood brush with natural bristles are a great swap for polyester loofas. When you are done with them, simply throw them in your compost bin. They work just the same and are an environmentally conscious choice.

Shampoo and soap bars can replace shampoo and body gels. Making this swap lessens the demand for plastic bottles. Most bars also come in compostable packaging making them a zerowaste option.

Safety razors are a good alternative to plastic disposable razors. They take a bit of getting used to but are much more sustainable. Safety razors can last a lifetime,. Think about all of the plastic you are keeping out of the ocean by making this switch.

There are two options for ear cleaning tools that are sustainable. If you choose to use disposable cotton swabs make sure they are an all-natural version. These are compostable. The ones with a plastic stick can pose harm to animals especially those in the ocean. Another option is to get a reusable ear cleaning kit.

Conclusion The earth is depending on us now more than ever. Every little step counts. Stay motivated and be mindful. Rewild encourages you to take on some of these habits and make changes that will not only better the planet, but also better your life.

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