How to go green

Every day we hear on the news about icebergs melting in the poles, sea level rising, droughts, floods and many more disasters. Many of us may not be aware of the fact that we humans are the greatest contributors to these destructive phenomena. What is our responsibility towards saving Mother Nature? Do we have to let go of our current lifestyle and be a tree hugger?

Humans, the most highly evolved creatures in the known existence of the universe, have dramatically forced the planet which they live in, to adapt to their needs and to their comfort. Every aspect of the planet is continuously changed in order to fulfill the needs of humans. Over the centuries, human inventions have endlessly continued to damage the planet earth which we humans call home.

In recent history a very controversial idea has been continuing to grow among few of us and as the awareness continues to grow amongst the population of the world, this idea is taking root more firmly among the society and continuing to grow. The idea is to let go of the destructive nature that we are currently living by and adopt a more “greener” way of life.

Learning how to live in this world without destroying it and learning how to co-exist with the rest of the nature is a part of going green. This idea is so controversial because this type of living means that we have to stop taking shortcuts in life at the expense of the planet and still live a comfortable life in a more preservative manner.

It is the current generation’s responsibility, to preserve this planets beauty to be seen by the next generation. So the whole idea of going green can be simplified to a sentence. Learn to be responsible and live life respecting others.

The baby steps of going green concentrates on understanding the concept of the three R’s: Recycle, Reuse and Reduce. These three words will make up the center of your going green plan. This article will try to highlight five simple ways in which anyone can go green.

1. Recycle and limit the use of paper

Paper production requires the cutting down of millions of trees. Global deforestation contributes to the devastating effects on climate. As individuals we can cut down our use of paper in several ways. Use paper only when it’s necessary. Do not just scribble on a piece of paper and then toss it into the dustbin. Use those blank pages left in your note book instead of buying another notebook. While you use paper, use both sides of it. When you go for paper bags use those that are made from recycled paper.

2. Dispose batteries properly and if possible use rechargeable batteries

Improper dispose of batteries pose hazards to our environment in addition to the dangers it can cause to our health. When disposed incorrectly, the heavy metals in batteries can contaminate our environment. Burning may not be the best approach to dispose batteries. On incineration, batteries can again release metals that can contaminate the air and even our water systems. As much as possible, consider using rechargeable batteries and recycling batteries. Do not buy batteries more than you need. Check your stock of batteries before you go and buy anymore. Use hand-operable machinery instead of battery operated ones where possible.

3. Walk and cycle to reduce pollution 

It is not necessary for every one of us to own and travel in our own car. Where possible, use the public transportation system. Try to walk or cycle when you have to travel only short distances. Walking and bicycling nullifies the emission of gases (such as carbon monoxide) that would have occurred if you travelled in a car. This way you are reducing pollution that could poison you and make you sick. You are also making an effort to save the lives of others who would get affected by the emission of these gases. Cycling and walking can also be a great exercise to your body and lower the risk of developing certain diseases.

4. Save water; do not waste this invaluable resource.

Millions of people around the world have limited access to clean and adequate water supplies. Water is a life saving resource yet we do not appreciate this when many of us waste water. When you waste water you are also wasting energy. The clean water you get is obtained by treatment which consumes lots of energy. Water heating also consumes lots of energy. Wasting water can add to your water and electricity bills in addition to the damages it does to the environment. Water can be conserved by taking showers instead of baths and take short showers, just enough to clean yourself. Do not keep the water tap on when you are brushing your teeth. 

5. Conserve electricity

When you leave your room or house, turn off all the lights and fans and electrical appliances that need not be left turned on. Conserving electricity prevents the waste of money and effort made to generate electricity. When you are at home, turn of the electrical appliances that you are not using. If there is nobody to watch it, don’t leave the TV on. If it isn’t hot don’t put the air conditioning on. Use energy saving lights at home to limit the wastage of electricity. Energy saving lights also lasts longer, so you don’t have to buy as many lights as when you’re not using this type of lights.

As individuals we are capable of doing these simple things to help conserve our environment. Going green isn’t that difficult if you start with these little things that would contribute to the saving of our planet. Take responsibility and respect other lives to conserve our environment, our lives and our planet and wake up to a guaranteed tomorrow.

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