Imagine waking up in a world with clean air, crystal clear waters, and vibrant greenery. Unfortunately, that’s not the case due to factors including city growth, car emissions, and the burning of fossil fuels. Environmental wellness is a dimension of wellness that focuses on the relationship between individuals and their surroundings. It recognizes that a healthy planet leads to healthier lives. When we neglect our environment, we damage the quality of our air, water, and food, which can ultimately affect our physical and mental health.

Are you aware of what’s happening to our planet? Let’s take a look at some alarming statistics.

• Air pollution is responsible for approximately 7 million premature deaths worldwide each year (World Health Organization).
• Over 8 million tons of plastic enter the ocean every year, posing a serious threat to marine life and ecosystems  (National Geographic).
• Deforestation continues at an alarming rate, with an estimated 24 million acres of forest lost annually (World Wildlife Fund).

Let’s learn 10 tips we can take home to better support the environment.

1. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Start by minimizing waste through recycling and reusing items whenever possible. This simple habit can significantly reduce the burden on landfills and natural resources.
2. Conserve Energy: Use energy-efficient appliances and turn off lights and/or electronic devices when not in use.
3. Conserve Water: Fix leaks, install water-saving fixtures, and practice water conservation techniques in your daily routine. Aim to reduce your shower time by one minute, it saves more water than you think!
4. Reduce Single-Use Plastics: Opt for reusable bags, bottles, and containers to reduce plastic waste. Some alternatives include glass bottles, cloth bags, and beeswax wrap.
5. Support Sustainable Transportation: Walk, bike, carpool, or use public transportation to reduce carbon emissions from personal vehicles.
6. Eat Sustainably: Choose locally sourced, organic foods to reduce the carbon footprint associated with food transportation and promote sustainable farming practices. Check out local farmers’ markets in your area.
7. Reduce Chemical Exposure: Use natural cleaning products and reduce the use of pesticides and harmful chemicals in your home and garden. Three of the best natural cleaners are baking soda, lemon, and vinegar.
8. Support Conservation Efforts: Get involved in local environmental organizations and participate in community clean-up events or tree-planting initiatives.
9. Educate Yourself and Others: Stay informed about environmental issues and share knowledge with friends and family to raise awareness.
10. Advocate for Change: Support policies and initiatives that promote environmental protection and sustainable practices. The United States Environmental Protection Agency has a variety of resources on its website.

Environmental wellness is not just a personal choice; it is a collective responsibility. By recognizing the connection between our well-being and the health of the planet, we can take steps to improve both. By following these ten tips and making conscious choices in our daily lives, we can contribute to a healthier, more sustainable planet for ourselves and future generations. Let’s take care of our home!