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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
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