organic farming

Simple Ways To Help Save the Planet

Simple Ways To Help Save the Planet

Reading Time: 3 minutes

There are simple actions that we do each day that are harming the environment. Remember that we only have one planet, if we are not going to take care of it, who else will? The good news is that all of us have the power to if not reverse at least stop further damage to the earth. We only have to do it together. Every action counts. Here are simple ways to help save the planet:

1.Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

The best way to save the environment is to reduce the waste being produced. We can do this by reusing items instead of throwing them after a single use. Household items that we can reuse include boxes, containers, glass jars, papers, plastic bags, plastic spoons and forks and many other household items. To recycle means using items for a different purpose instead of discarding them right away. Items that be recycled include clothes, plastic containers, newspapers, steel cans and food wastes.

2.Buy Organic Products

Organic farming benefits the environment. It helps reduce pollution and soil erosion. It also conserves water and increases soil fertility. In addition, organic farming uses 45% less energy compared to regular farms. Thus, by purchasing organic products especially in your local community; you are actually doing your share in helping the planet.

3. Conserve Water and Energy

Conserving water can keep the water pure and clean. It also minimizes the effect of water shortages. It also helps reduce your household expenses. There are many ways to conserve water at home. You can do simple things like:

  • Turning off the water when not in use
  • Checking toilets and faucets for leaks
  • Using dishwashers and washing machines only in full load
  • Watering the plants during cool parts of the day

Likewise, energy conservation is also important for the environment. Reducing energy consumption can help lessen air pollution. There are many ways to reduce energy consumption at home. You can do things like:

  • Turning off lights when not in use
  • Washing clothes in cold water
  • Unplugging unused electronics
  • Using LED lights

4. Go Paperless

Going digital has a lot of advantages. Not only does it improve efficiency, it also saves money. In addition, it also gives you access anytime wherever you may be. An added bonus, it is good for the environment too.

5. Patronize Eco-Friendly Companies

Many companies out there already started with their environmental initiatives. As consumers, you can help the environment by supporting environmentally-friendly and sustainable products. At the same time, boycott brands that are not helping the environment at all.

6. Plant a Tree

Trees give us oxygen. They also purify the air by storing the harmful carbon dioxide. They prevent soil erosion and maintain humidity levels. Trees also provide shelter for wildlife. The human race will not be able to survive without plants and trees. However, it is a fact that there is massive deforestation happening right now. So, we must help by planting a tree. You can plant a tree in your backyard. You can also join tree planting activities. If planting is not your thing, you can just donate and have others plant the tree for you.

7. Segregate Wastes

Poor waste management results in land, air and even water pollution. Combined with hazardous materials, the trash that we throw is not only harmful to the environment but detrimental to our health as well.

8. Use Your Voice

You don’t need to be active in any environmental organization to be an environmentalist. You can actually use your voice to talk and influence your family, friends. neighbors and colleagues. Speak up and make your voice heard by the people around you.


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Image by Gerd Altmann from Pixabay 

Posted by A.L. Jonas in Environmental, 0 comments
5 Herbs You Can Grow Indoors

5 Herbs You Can Grow Indoors

Reading Time: 3 minutes

You might not have a green thumb but there are 5 herbs that you can easily grow indoors. If you love gardening but live in an apartment, then growing these herbs indoors is a good way to indulge in your hobby. These herbs are easy to care for and you can use them in your cooking too. This is also one way to add more organic produce to your diet.

1. Lemongrass

This herb doesn’t even require soil. Buy a stalk at your local market with a large stem part and with the base of the plant still intact. Trim the top of the stalk and place the plant in a tall container with 2-3 inches of water. The stalk will produce roots and dozens of new shoots. It’s one of the easiest herbs to grow indoors. This herb is very fragrant when added to your dishes.

2. Chives

This herb does not require much light to grow just start with an already grown plant. Place the plant with the roots in a small pot filled halfway with potting soil. Cover the roots up to the crowns with more potting soil. Cut about one-third off of the top of the plant to encourage new growth. Chives are popularly used as garnish but also to add flavor to dishes.

3. Mint

Spearmint and peppermint grow like weeds so they can choke out other herbs if kept in the same container so get these herbs their own pots. For indoors, peppermint is a better option. This herb should be planted as seeds in a small pot full of potting soil. Place it in a spot where it gets at least a little bit of light each day. Mint is one of the herbs you can grow indoors to add a refreshing kick to your beverages or desserts.

4. Parsley

Parsley is grown from seeds which need to germinate and may take up to 2 weeks to grow. This herb is a slow grower so your initial clippings will not be much. It doesn’t require much light and maintenance once you get started. Be sure to ask instructions from the seller when you buy the seeds so you can plant it properly. This is a popular herb that adds a hearty aroma to any dish.

5. Basil

This herb is the most difficult to grow among the five but it is a very popular herb for cooking. There are different kinds of basil so ask your seller which one to get and how to grow it properly. As with parsley, you will enjoy caring for it and cooking with it after your initial planting efforts.

Some Tips for Caring for These Herbs

As with any hobby, some patience is needed to grow some of these herbs indoors. You will find that they are worth the time and effort. Be sure to keep in mind some tips to ensure your efforts don’t go to waste.

  • Plant herbs in separate containers so that they have room to grow and they don’t choke out each other.
  • Water them minimally. Wet the base where the stem and soil meet and not the leaves. Let the base dry before watering again.
  • Clip them regularly to promote more growth so use them in your cooking often.
  • Always use high quality organic potting soil. Ask your seller for recommendations.

We hope you get your gardening groove on with these herbs and maybe boost your cooking skills in the process. You might also want to check out these tips on maximizing your food budget.


Updated. First published on Pinoy Smart Living on 2019.04.01.
Feature Image: Original Photo by Markus Spiske on Unsplash.

Posted by H.J. Rangas in Environmental, 0 comments
Is Organic Food Really Worth the Expense?

Is Organic Food Really Worth the Expense?

Reading Time: 3 minutes

Because of the pandemic, people realized how important health is. Aside from exercise, getting enough sleep and drinking lots of water; an integral part of a healthy lifestyle is eating the right kinds of food. Good nutrition means that your body is getting the right amount of vitamins, minerals and other nutrients that the body needs. Then, there is another consideration – to go organic or not? True, going organic has numerous health benefits but it is also more expensive. So, is organic food really worth the expense?

Organic Products

Organic pertains to the way the food was grown. Each country sets standards and regulations on organic farming. Organic farming uses natural pesticides.  Organic products refer to the food produced without the use of synthetic fertilisers, harmful pesticides or bioengineered genes (GMOs). 

While the use of chemicals increase the yields produced, they are also harmful not just to the environment but to the body as well. Numerous studies have linked the use of these chemicals to allergies, birth defects, infertility, liver and kidney damage and cancer. By eating organic foods, you will have a stronger and healthier body because you are freeing yourself from harmful chemicals. It also more nutritious and tastes better.

Organic products are different from locally-produced or home grown products.  Organic food follows certain standards while locally-produced simply means it is produced in your country, province, or area. It may or may not be organic.

In the same way, organic livestock production takes into consideration the animal welfare. Organic animals are free to roam. They are not just confined in a cage but rather they have access to the outdoors. They eat organic food. In addition, they are free from antibiotics and other growth hormones.

Is it Worth It?

If you have money to spare, yes, it is worth it. Health is wealth. So, invest in your health by buying organic produce. Organic is still the best choice. It is good for your body and the environment as well.

Tips for Those Who are On a Budget

However, for those who are on a budget, going all organic might be far-fetched. But, there are still some things that you can to to lessen your exposure on harmful chemicals on food. Here are some tips for those who are on a budget:

1. Familiarize Yourself on the Pesticide Levels on Food

Not all food have the same pesticide levels.  Some have higher pesticides than others. Buy organic only on those that use more pesticide.

Image Credit: My Food & Happiness

2.  Shop at Farmers or Organic Markets

Almost all cities host small or weekend markets that sell organic produced. They are the best places to buy organic produce at discounted prices.

3. Buy in Season

Buying fruits and vegetables in season is not only good for you but for your wallet as well. This means the food is harvested at the correct time when the quality is up. You get the best tasting and the most nutritious food and it is cheap too because there are more supplies in the market.

4. Wash the Food Thoroughly Before Eating

Although washing will not completely eliminate the pesticides, it will succeed in reducing it. Some argued that it is better to peel off the skin. While peeling the skin may remove the chemicals, unfortunately, it will also remove the vitamins, minerals, fibres and antioxidants found on the peels. That is why is best to eat your fruits and vegetables unpeeled.

5. Plant your Own

The best way to make sure that you are eating organic produce is to plant your own. Turn your backyard into your own organic garden.


Updated version. First published in Pinoy Smart Living on 11.11.2018.

Feature Image by Photo by Magda Ehlers from Pexels

Posted by A.L. Jonas in Physical, 0 comments