Summer is here! After a seemingly endless winter, there’s nothing like longer days, ice cream cones, and finally switching out pants for shorts. But before you dive into your beach read, try making your habits and home eco-friendly for the coming season. Here are our favorite hacks for having a sustainable summer.
Reef Safe Sunscreen
Spending time outside in the summer means slathering on the SPF. Unfortunately, many US sunscreens contain oxybenzone and octinoxate, which can be harmful to coral reefs and other sea life. Here is a list of reef safe sunscreens to stock up on for your health and the health of our oceans.
Open a Window
While it can be tempting to crank the AC all summer, open some windows before making a beeline for the thermostat. Having some natural air in your car and home will save energy and money.
DIY Bug Spray
Not all bug sprays on the market are environmentally conscious. A sustainable and effective solution is making your own bug repellent. All you need is a spray bottle or atomizer, witch hazel, and oil of lemon eucalyptus or lavender essential oil. Then mix one-part oil with ten parts witch hazel. Shake and spray. This homemade bug spray is safe for little ones and pets, and more eco-friendly (and cheaper) than traditional bug sprays!
Find a Farmer’s Market
Whether you’re taking your first trip since quarantine or staying home check out the local farmer’s market. Farmer’s markets offer locally sourced foods like eggs, honey, fruits and veggies. You can help support small businesses and farmers while getting fresh produce in your diet.
Eco-Friendly Candles
Keep your outdoor space alight late into the summer nights with eco-conscious candles. Traditional candles are made from paraffin wax (aka petroleum wax), which is unsustainably sourced. Look for candles made from beeswax, soy wax, or coconut wax. Once you’re done with your candle you can upcycle the glass candle jars into toothbrush holders or cotton ball containers.
Bring Your Own Straw
For milkshakes and margaritas alike, bring your own metal straw. The United States uses more than 500 million straws a day. Like reusable water bottles, investing in a metal straw keeps plastic waste out of our oceans.
Try a Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is essential in the summer heat. Instead of buying single use plastic water bottles, invest in a reusable water bottle. Many reusable water bottles are made with insulated technology to keep your drink cool, and are easy to fill and refill at any clean water source. About 90% of single use plastic does not get recycled, so go reusable for a more sustainable summer!
To make your home sustainable year-round support eco-conscious companies like No.2 toilet paper made with sustainable sourced bamboo and without dyes, scents, and BPA. HAGS!