By: Caitlyn Conibear

For many people, when they hear “going green” they think of recycling or buying that cool reusable water bottle they stumbled upon in the checkout line; when instead there is so much more. Going green is about embracing a new way of life that helps preserve the environment by reducing, reusing and recycling items. The aim of this lifestyle is to:

- Reduce resource consumption

- Reduce pollution

- Eliminate wastes

- Conserve natural resources and forests.

Learning how and practicing an environmentally-mindful lifestyle is the first step of protecting the sustainability and habitability of the planet. Thankfully, there are plenty of small, easy changes one can make in their life that will contribute towards a healthier and more livable environment.   

Renewable energy is a great way to conserve natural resources; by switching to alternatives like wind, solar, hydroelectric, and geothermal, companies and homeowners can reduce energy costs and consumption amounts. 

Start picking green and organic food at the grocery store instead of ones with chemicals and contaminants. By choosing organic, shoppers are supporting responsible farming practices and land use which reduces greenhouse gases and lowers air pollution. 

Go digital in the office and save the trees. Saving the rainforest not only saves the place thousands of animals and insects call home, but also purifies the air we breathe. 

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), air pollution causes around 2 million premature deaths globally, every year. If we continue to push pollutants into the air and engage in excess use of natural resources, we will soon find our planet in grave danger. By embracing a “green” life and practicing environmentally conscious choices we are building a healthier environment for all living creatures, both now and in the future.