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2019 was definitely a tumultuous year of ups and downs for the environment. It’s high time to rethink our habits and include saving the planet in our goals. Here are some easy ways you can help save the Earth this year.
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1. Always carry your own shopping bag

Plastic bags might be convenient, however, this one-time convenience is costly to the environment, particularly to our oceans. According to a recent study, an estimated 8 million metric tons of plastic end up in the ocean each year. Did you know that it takes up to 400 years to decompose in a landfill?

So if you’re planning a trip to the market, always opt to bring a reusable shopping bag. They are a great alternative to plastic. Simply stash one in your bag and you’re good to go.

Related: How Tengku Zatashah Led A #SayNo2Plastic Social Media Campaign That Altered Consumer Habits

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2. Bring reusable water bottle

At this very minute, millions of plastic bottles are being sold around the world. Every hour, two and a half million are thrown away and may end up in our oceans, causing the deaths of many marine animals.

Make a significant difference today through getting yourself a reusable water bottle and start avoiding plastic bottles. This easy switch helps you and the environment.

See also: Rolex Testimonee Sylvia Earle: What Can You Do Every Day To Make The Planet Perpetual?

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3. Ditch straws and other plastic-wares

The rise of switching from plastic straws to wooden or metal straws or none at all has been apparent in recent years. Like other plastic items—such as bags and bottles—plastic utensils can take centuries to naturally break down. Billions of these one-time-use cutleries are thrown away each year, making it among the “most deadly” items to sea turtles, birds, and other animals.

One of the easiest and most logical solutions to help solve the plastic crisis is bringing your own cutlery. 

ICYMI: 7 Kuala Lumpur F&B Outlets That Have Refused The Plastic Straw

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4. Always switch it up by renting outfits

Although fashion brands take initiative into limiting their carbon footprint, it is still deemed as one of the biggest contributors to pollution due to the volume of waste produced by factories. How do you fulfil the desire to wear new pieces of clothing yet have a good relationship with sustainability? By renting, of course. To start, check out Rent A Dress. You won't have to repeat outfits and at the same time, you'll contribute to a more circular fashion industry by renting. 

See also: 10 Brands That Signed A Fashion Pact To Make The Fashion Industry More Sustainable

 

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5. Vary your diet and explore plant-based options

Vegetarian diets have grown popular over the years as a way to try and reduce one’s carbon footprint. Cutting down your consumption of red meat also lessens the amount of greenhouse gas emissions (which takes up roughly 51 per cent of emissions) are caused by animal agriculture.

You don’t have to completely cut meat out of your diet to make a difference. You can actually start small by taking part in Meatless Mondays, an initiative that encourages people to ditch meat once a week, or you can opt to replace at least one meal a day with plant-based options.

Related: 5 Plant-Based Eateries In The Klang Valley

 

 

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6. Make a compost pile

For 2020, it’s time to avoid throwing away your food waste, whether it’s an entire sandwich or a half-eaten pizza slice. Our food waste goes into a landfill, creating methane, which is a powerful greenhouse gas. In other words, it contributes to climate change.

From the skins of fruits to the remains of a salad bowl, the uneaten produce can be turned into compost to fertilise your plants.

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Above (Image: Christiann Koepke /Unsplash)

7. Sustainable grocery shopping

Sustainable grocery shopping is so much easier now thanks to the growing number of zero-waste stores.These stores provide a wide range of goods, from organic produce to alternatives for single-use plastic cutlery. Customers are usually encouraged to bring their own containers to buy in bulk as opposed to purchasing excess amounts which eventually will go to waste. This way, the use of disposable plastic containers are limited and there is a reduction of food waste when consumers buy only what they need.

See also: 5 Industry Heavyweights, On Incorporating Sustainability In Their Businesses

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