In an effort to offer others some agency in the face of what can feel like overwhelming helplessness regarding climate change, here are some things I do to help offset the daily damage I cause. In addition to this list, I’ve included a few environmental advocacy and conservancy organizations. If there are better organizations or mistakes I’ve made, please don’t hesitate to reach out and correct me. :)
Products:
Who Gives A Crap - Bamboo toilet paper company. 50% of profits go toward efforts to keep waterways clean (mainly by building toilets to improves sanitation).
Earth Breeze Laundry Detergent Strips - Simple and effect detergent strips that keep large plastic jugs out of our landfills (and oceans).
For Days Clothing Recycling - A straightforward clothing recycling program where you can also get credit to order fresh threads.
Papaya, Reusable Paper Towels - Basically cloth towels you re-use. Rags also work. Anyway, there are many brands out there.
Services:
Ridwell - A subscription service collecting hard to recycle items. Currently Ridwell operates in limited areas.
Actions:
Switch off power strips.
I try to limit buying bottled water, unless it’s a must (not everyone has clean water or adequate water filtering, so sometimes it is unavoidable). I often bring a reusable water vessel.
The California Bay Area has a pretty ok compost program (to my knowledge). I keep my compost in a paper bag (also compostable) the freezer so it’s not smelly. Again, not every city has these services.
Re-usable bags. And, in general, not using plastic bags.
Re-usable coffee mug.
I carry re-usable silverware. There are many brands to choose from.
If I’m at the beach, forest, or any other natural environment, I am extra conscious to pick up trash.
I generally do not buy zip lock bags, but if they make their way into my kitchen, I re-use them. I wash them out and let them dry on the dish rack.
If it isn’t scorching or freezing outside, I try not to sit in my car while it’s running.
Organizations:
World Wildlife Fund - I’ve been giving them money since I was ten years old probably.