Stay Informed: Where does most of the trash in your area end up? Reducing your waste can help minimize impact on communities that are located near landfills. Refresh your knowledge on best practices for recycling in your area. Know exactly what is recyclable. No wish recycling! Clean your recyclables well to ensure they are recycled and not diverted to landfill due to contamination.
Take Action: Consider your impact when traveling. Avoid single use plastics and excess food packaging. Always bring your water bottle and purchase 1-5 gallons at a time to mitigate single use water bottle waste. Use public transportation when possible to reduce your carbon footprint. Look for lodging with sustainable initiatives in place. Not the case? Decline daily maid service and reuse your linens to save on energy and water.
Be Accountable: Don't fall into the trap of blaming others for their choices due to monetary limitations. Choosing sustainable options is, unfortunately, often more expensive, and a limiting factor to making the "right" choice for many. If you can afford to make better choices for the planet, it is up to you to make the change. Share with your friends and family about why you made the swap and how they can too!
Knowledge is Power: Understanding the connection between environmental issues and socio-economic issues is vital to migrating to a more sustainable future. As individuals we can often feel powerless, but we can create change with simple daily choices toward a healthier planet and society one swap and habit at a time.