Simple, Sustainable Spring Tips

Spring is a time for new beginnings…

Check out these 9 ‘sustainability tips’ to start new, simpler routines this season that can help cut costs, improve well being and reduce our carbon footprint.

1. Make your own cleaners

Reduce the use of plastics, the cost of cleaners, and the potentially harmful chemicals in standard cleaning products. From all purpose and tub/shower cleaners, to toilet bowl cleaners, we can make simple and safe low cost alternatives at home.  

2: Purge unwanted items

Roll up your sleeves and go through those places and things that get ignored the rest of the year. Then divide items into trash, sell, and donate piles and take action.

3. ‘Thrift’ clothes, furniture or décor

Before buying new items, consider ‘thrifting’ instead. Explore consignment and thrift shops as well as flea markets, yard sales and, of course, local online sources like Kijiji.

Tip 4: Open up the windows

What a joyful part of spring! Being able to open windows up again and let in the fresh air – the best no cost air freshener and mood enhancer available.

Tip 5: Plant a garden

If you don’t have the benefit of a sunny back yard for your planting, consider community garden plots, your apartment balcony, a window ledge or even on-the-counter sprouting jars. Get connected to a low cost source of healthy food and to the natural cycle of growth and renewal.

Tip 6: Plant trees for shade

If you are looking for ways to reduce your use of energy to save some money, consider planting some trees to keep the sun’s heat from radiating into your home in the summer. Don’t have a yard? What about exploring volunteer opportunities to plant trees in your community?

Tip 7: Fix or maintain rather than replace

Spring is a good time to check household items that might need maintaining or repair—things we know need attention but ignore such as leaking faucets or toilets, yellowing bathroom caulking, and door and window screen security. Check out online information for repair or maintenance tips instead of buying new items or hiring someone to do the work.

Tip 8: Use a push mower

Do you have a yard to maintain? If you need to replace your lawnmower, how about choosing a push mower? Enjoy the lower cost, quietness, and fresh air and exercise.

Tip 9: Walk or bike to places, run errands, visit with friends

Speaking of exercise, use that spring energy to walk or bike more. Ask others to join you so in addition to the exercise, you get the benefit of socializing while reducing your carbon footprint.

Talk about these tips with your family and friends. Then make a spring cleaning or project list and ‘simply’ enjoy the season!

(For more details, see https://www.greensliceoflife.com/9-simple-sustainability-tips-for-spring/).