1. Turn down the AC
Not only do air conditioners use a significant amount of electricity, but they also contain chemical refrigerants, which contribute to global warming. In fact, refrigerant management is the number one solution to climate change according to Drawdown.org.So what should we do? For starters, turn your thermostat up a few degrees and program the AC to run only when you are home. Close the blinds on south-facing windows and/or those that receive significant sunlight during the hottest part of the day, and open the windows to let in cool air from evening to morning. If you can stand it, don't turn the AC on at all!
2. Protect your skin
As a pale, blue-eyed redhead, I know better than most the dangers of the sun. If you're planning on being in the sun for more than a few minutes, take some precautions to protect your skin. The best protection, of course, is long sleeves, pants, and a wide-brimmed hat. Sunscreen often contains chemicals that are harmful to us as well as the environment, so choose your lotion carefully. Look for natural brands like Badger or Alba Botanica.3. Hydrate responsibly
It's important to drink plenty of water on hot days, especially if you're being active. But make sure your healthy habit doesn't harm the earth! Avoid buying bottled water if at all possible. Instead, fill a reusable water bottle with tap water whenever you leave the house, even if you're just running errands. Use an insulated bottle or travel mug to keep water cool in the car.4. Visit the farmer's market
Summer is the easiest time of year to eat local, so take advantage of it! Plus, walking through the farmer's market is a lot more fun than a trip to the grocery store. Plan your meals around whatever is in season - chopped salads make great easy lunches, and there are endless ways to use things like spinach, tomatoes, and squash. Pick up one new thing to try every time you visit the farmer's market, like kohlrabi or daikon radishes, if you're feeling adventurous. Don't forget your reusable bags!
5. Get outside
If you're not in the house, you don't need to have the lights or AC on, never mind the TV or computer. Grab a book and a glass of iced tea and sit out on the porch for an hour or two. It's that easy. Have flower beds or a garden? Make it a goal to spend at least ten minutes weeding every day. I find it therapeutic, and in bite-sized chunks of time, the task is less overwhelming. Go for a walk every evening after supper instead of plopping in front of the TV, or pull the bikes out of the shed for a leisurely ride.On the weekends, you can go for day hikes or camping trips - not only is this a great way to exercise and enjoy nature, but you can also support state and national parks if you choose to spend time there. Look for local craft shows and other festivals where you can have fun while supporting local artists and small businesses.
6. Green your BBQ or picnic
Barbecues and picnics are staples of summer, but they're also frequently sources of a lot of disposable items and conventionally-raised beef. If you're hosting, offer your guests reusable plates and cutlery that can easily be thrown into the dishwasher - not the trash! - at the end of the meal. Cloth napkins can go through the wash with a load of towels. When it comes to the food, remember that chicken has a lower carbon footprint than beef or pork, and choose local, grass-fed/free-range, and organic whenever possible. Skip the store-bought soda and set out a few pitchers of homemade iced tea and lemonade instead.Going to someone else's picnic, barbecue, or potluck? Unless you know they'll have reusable dishes set out, bring your own plates, cups, napkins, and cutlery. Remember to do the same when you head out for a simple family picnic in the park, too.
7. Keep chemicals out of the yard
Glyphosate, a common ingredient in weedkillers like Roundup, is extremely dangerous to people, animals, insects, and the environment in general. In fact, it has recently been confirmed to cause cancer. Please do not use any kind of chemical weedkiller, pesticide, or fertilizer. Your lawn doesn't need to be - nor should it be - perfectly uniform grass, and there are other methods for keeping fence lines clean. To discourage mosquitoes, refill pet bowls and birdbaths frequently, and plant mosquito-repelling herbs like lemongrass or rosemary. Look up alternative solutions to pests in the garden, which range from organic sprays to companion planting.
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How do you stay green in the summer? Share your tips and ideas in the comments!