Here at the Cibolo, we know that saving the world through conservation is no easy task. Though, we are firm believers that every little bit helps! We hope you’ll enjoy this refresher on things you can do to reduce, reuse and recycle while protecting Mother Earth. It is the start of a new year, so it’s a good time to start incorporating helpful habits into your life.
Reducing energy use and reducing water waste are great ways for Texans to help the environment. Reduce energy waste by turning off lights and unplugging electronics that are not being used. Things like your microwave, lamps, and phone chargers use ‘reserve energy’ when not in use, and when each household has more than a few of these electronics, that can add up. So go ahead and give the power grid, and your wallet, a break. For homeowners, be sure that your hot water pipes are properly insulated. This ensures that your shower water doesn’t take too long to warm up.
Reusing materials is another easy way to live a little lightly. You can reduce plastic bottle waste by switching from buying water bottles to using a refillable water bottle and investing in a water purifying system. These can be water filter pitchers, faucet mounts, or full house systems and can be very affordable in the long run. In addition, coffee drinkers can use reusable coffee cups at shops like Starbucks and Dunkin’ Donuts and receive customer points and a discount. Of course, don’t forget your reusable shopping bags on grocery trips. Keep them in your car, and not at home in the pantry, so you don’t forget!
Aside from the obvious bin that takes your used paper and plastic bottles, there are fun ways to recycle! Resale stores in town like Daly Finds, the Animal Defense League Thrift Store, and Faith and Funky Junk are great places to find quality clothing, housewares, and furniture. The clothing industry is a huge contributor to pollution, and by donating your clothing or buying preowned clothing, you are helping to make it more sustainable. Additionally, house essentials like kitchen dishes can become pricey. Thrift stores are a fun way to find affordable buy-it-for-life products like that vintage Corning-Ware dish you used to see at family get togethers. You can also find furniture in thrift stores that were made years ago with quality woods, textiles, and other materials. You can upcycle old furniture by refurbishing with modern fabrics or designs that fit your style. Now you’ve got something old, something new, and a great conversation piece!
If you are looking to really give “going green” a try this year, look into learning new skills like gardening, foraging or composting. You can come to the Cibolo and find classes and ways to learn how you can go green in any time of the year. Visit www.cibolo.org to learn more and find the right class for you. Start small. Every bit helps.
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