In my last post, I stated why it is so important to save the environment of this planet, and to use the resources of it in a responsible way. Also I mentioned some possibilities to take action for this matter.
Today, I want to say what I personally do for it in my daily life, how I integrate this in my consuming habits, and what actions I consider to be good for the environment. This will not be a complete list, but I hope it will inspire and inform you.
1. Since a certain time (more than a year) I particularly look for Bio products especially in the sections of cosmetic products (shower and hair care, skin cream etc.) and of nutrition. In Germany there are a couple of brands and logos which garantee such a quality.
Bio products only contain natural ingredients from ecological cultivation. This means under other that the crops are totally free of chemical fertilizers. And of course they all are free of any non-natural additives, preserving agents or flavours. So the risk of allergical reactions also is minimized with such products!
On the other hand, the pollution through genetically modified plants is minimized (I think it is actually utopistic to assume 0% genetic engineering, because it isn't possible to avoid that the genetically modified grains reach a Bio field through wind and weather - at least unless genetically modified plants are not prohibited completely).
Often, their ingredients have shorter transportation ways (another important environmental aspect!). Unfortunately, I remarked sometimes that the last is not automatically standard in such products. In reality, it can occur that Bio products contain ingredients from far away which could also be provided from regional sources.
Another aspect is that this products generally are made without being tested in cruel animal experiments.
2. Additionally, I buy from time to time certain products which are traded fairly. I regularly do so for example with coffees and teas, but also with sugar and sometimes chocolate (as I love savouring it and wouldn't like to surrender it). By now there are different brands for fair trade articles.
3. I often use the public transport means to travel from A to B, and I usually build car pools (I don't own a car myself and I don't need it). For travels within my country, I only use means of terrestrial transport and don't fly. Because the short distance flights are the most pollutioning ones regarding the kerosine blowed into the air.
4. I cut my electric devices off when I don't use them. Notice that without doing so, the Stand By modus also consumes electric energy! In the same way, I only lighten rooms I actually am in and need the light (why lightening a room or spot in full daytime, when I am able to read or work with the daylight?).
5. Before opening a window in winter, I turn off the radiator. Also, it is better to open the window for a short time completely than to tilt it for a longer period.
6. Last but not least, to save the environment and to spend the energy more economically, it is recommended to think about a good insulation of your house so that no warmth and energy get wasted.
You see that it is not so complicated to act eco-friendly. In fact, often the "little" actions make the difference and great results. So let's begin with it now!
Have you other ideas for a responsible and more environmental consuming and living customs?