9 Simple Ways To Be More Sustainable In New York City

It's easier than you think.

9. Take the Stairs

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Don’t wait for the elevator! Conserve electricity, save time, and work your glutes. The best part? Going down the stairs is even quicker.

8. Bike

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They make for a sustainable commute, but bikes also great for exercise or leisure! Invest in one and you'll forget what a MetroCard is before you know it.

7. Use Revolving Doors

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They do more than you may think. Traditional swing doors allow outside air to infiltrate the indoor air, causing AC and heating units to work harder, which increases fossil fuel usage. Revolving doors cut CO2 emissions. Plus, they're sort of fun.

6. Reuse

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A lot of what we buy has a longer life than what we use it for. Try shopping at Beacon’s Closet, Buffalo Exchange, or Housing Works to reuse fashion (wash before wearing and you'll be fine.)

5. Recycle

Via blogs.villagevoice.com

Above are two images, a photograph and a rendering, both of the same location: Freshkills Landfill in Staten Island, NY, which is now known as Freshkills Park. That's right. After reaching maximum capacity in 2001, Freshkills was shut down and sealed up like a dirty diaper. However, it is now under major renovation to soon be NYC's largest park at three times the size of Central Park. Where is your garbage going? Think before you "throw away."

4. Quit Buying Bottled Water

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Why on Earth are you still paying for something that is absolutely free? The 3 Truths:

1. New York City has magnificent water.

2. Refrigerate it and it’s even better.

3. Invest in a quality reusable water bottle and you’ll never go back.

3. Compost

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Hi! *BREAKS DOWN FOURTH WALL* I know, it seems gross. Or at least that’s what I, the author of this list, originally thought. When I moved into my new dorm I was supplied with a “Bio-Bag” aka. a biodegradable composting bag. I began putting all of my food scraps in there and, to keep it from smelling, it sits in the freezer. It’s simple, clean, and makes me feel good about how I am treating the environment. You should try it.

2. Eat Locally

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New York City has a lot to offer when it comes to sustainable food. Consider joining the Corbin Hill Farm Share, a Co-Op, or visiting the Union Square Green Market for fresh and local produce. Schlepping produce across the country burns a ton of unnecessary oil—and don't even get us started on the excessive processing of everyday food items.

1. Advocate for Climate Action

Via peoplesclimate.org

Last but certainly not least: take action and make your voice heard. Start this week by attending Climate Action Week events and the People's Climate March on September 21. Remember, this is your invitation to change everything!