From HMN Sponsor Frontier Co-op
Earth Day is a day dedicated to celebrating the planet we inhabit, and demonstrating our support for environmental protection. Some communities also celebrate Earth Week to spend more time learning about the environment, volunteering and coming up with solutions to improve the problems we face. However you plan to celebrate, we’ve come up with six ways to incorporate a love for the Earth into your everyday activities.
- Buy in bulk. Frontier is a member of the Bulk Is Green Council, which exists to educate consumers on the environmental and financial benefits of buying bulk foods. Try buying in bulk this month – we’re sure it’ll become a habit!
- Spend time outside. Wandering around open spaces such as our own tallgrass prairie in Iowa or a local city park. It’ll give you a greater appreciation for nature.
- Go organic. There are a number of reasons for choosing organic food, body care products and even clothing. Organic farming techniques provide a safer, more sustainable environment for everyone — growers, consumers and all of us who share the world environment. There is substantial research suggesting links to cancer and other diseases from the synthetic insecticides, herbicides, fungicides, and fertilizers used on non-organic crops. Not only will it decrease your exposure to potentially harmful chemicals, eating organic supports an agriculture system that’s healthier for the planet.
- Reduce, reuse and recycle. It’s one of the easiest things we can do to decrease waste. It’s also an accessible first step for learning to be more conscious of how our actions affect the environment, particularly if you’re a recycling skeptic.
- Know your source. Support local, organic agriculture when possible. For food that isn’t grown locally — or for body care, clothing or other items — learn about where your purchases come from, and support companies with sustainable sourcing practices.
- Look around your kitchen. Cleaning products, cookware, water use, and even your remodeling plans can all be sources of toxins and waste. Even small changes can make your kitchen greener. Opt for reusable sandwich bags, coffee filters, and grocery bags.
Photo from Miriam Espacio on unsplash.