9 Ways To Keep This Beautiful Planet Alive

The environment is in the worst place it has ever been in history. Scientists give us about 10-12 years to make a change or else all the horrible predications we keep hearing the whispers of, will REALLY become reality. THIS is the time to implement the environmental changes you've read about, but never really used, into our lives.

1. Reduce The Amount Of Meat You Eat

Ok, I know that steak is just so delicious. And so are In-N-Out burgers. Trust me, I know. However, red meat is responsible for an extremely large amount of greenhouse emissions. In fact, these emissions are 10-40 times larger than common grains and vegetables. Cutting out red meat is a small step to reducing your footprint.

2. Tote Bags Are Your Friends!

Plastic shopping bags have an extreme negative effect on the oceans. Bring a resusable next time you buy your groceries to help the ocean.

3. Drive Less

It's no secret that cars release a large amount of greenhouse gasses. As a reminder, don't drive anywhere you could easily take a short walk to. Also remember that public transportation is a greener(and sometimes cheaper), way to transport.

4. Reusable Water Bottles Are Cool

Plastic water bottles are a large threat to ocean life. Instead, opt for a resuable water bottle. You can also cover your bottles with stickers, which is what a lot of teens do nowadays. Bringing a bottle with you also makes sure you get enough water daily, so it's a win-win for everybody!

5. Use Reef Safe Sunscreen At The Beach

If your ever at the beach, remember to use sunscreen that is reef safe. Chemicals in regular sunscreen are extremely hurtful for the reefs and the sea animals that live there. Reef-Safe is the better way to go.

6. Used Goods!

If you ever have the chance to go thrifting, go to a garage sale, or an antique store, I suggest you take it! Purchasing used goods is a great way to reduce the amount of packaging being used, and it reduces your carbon footprint, since many goods are shipped around the globe. Plus, thrifting is a great way to find cool, trendy, and vintage clothes for cheap. And the antique lamp you pick up from an antique store, you definitely can't find at IKEA!

7. Unique Hygiene Products

If you opt out your normal plastic bottled shampoo for a shampoo bar, you are helping the environment but reducing the amount of plastic that ends up in the ocean. LUSH Cosmetics for example sells these shampoo bars. Or you could check out NOHBO products which are shampoo drops that dissolve in the shower. Keep on the look out for other uniquely packaged hygiene products that reduce the amount of plastic use.

8. This One Is Just Plain And Simple: Conserve Water!

Make sure you don't leave the shower on to long before hopping in, and don't leave the sink on when you don't need water.

9. Recycle, Recycle, Recycle!

Recycle glass! Glass can take up to million years to decompose if it's not recycled. Recycling glass can also reduce related water pollution by up to fifty percent and related air pollution by up to twenty percent. Other paper and plastic is also important to recycle so it doesn't end up in the ocean or on the ground.