By Erin McFeeters
Climate change and global warming aren’t going away, and the ecosystem in our state must be protected. It may seem like a daunting task, but there are simple swaps you can make in your home that can help.
1. Always have a reusable bag on hand
As of May 4, 2022, plastic bags are banned in New Jersey. The NJ Department of Environmental Protection will prohibit retail, food service, and grocery stores from providing single-use plastic bags for customers, as well as polystyrene food containers from restaurants.
Keep reusable bags in your car or have a designated spot for them in your home.
2. Use Refillable Hand Soap and Cleaning Products.
Make the switch and stock your home with cleaning product containers that you can refill. Eliminating single-use plastic is often first step to taking the pledge to be more sustainable.
3. Install a Smart Thermostat.
Wi-fi-enabled thermostats can help you save on heating and cooling costs while cutting down on your energy usage. Many top brands allow you to modify the thermostat from your smartphone or computer so you’re not wasting energy when it’s not needed.
Some thermostats even get to know your routine and take the weather forecast into account to ensure your space is always comfortable when you arrive.
4. Shop Local
Help cut down on shipping materials for your every purchase and consider shopping local. Major online retailers may be convenient but fueling your local economy can ultimately help your own business and boost your home’s value. Go a step further and try to purchase more seasonal food at a local farmer’s market to help reduce food miles or how far food must travel to reach your plate.
5. Use a Reusable water bottle.
Rather than grabbing a plastic water bottle every time you leave the house, fill up a reusable one and take it with you.
Overall, reusable water bottles use less oil to produce and don’t end up in the landfills at the same rate as single-use plastic water bottles.
6. Start a garden or join a community garden
NJ is the Garden State for a reason. Consider starting one in your backyard to reduce your carbon footprint and your food miles. If you don’t have a green thumb many communities have a garden program you can join and help out when needed and still benefit from fresh fruits and vegetables.