3 little ways to start your green journey

By: Brianna Cruz

Edited By: Caitlyn Gonzales

Want to end climate change, but don’t know where to start? Don’t worry we have all been there too. It may seem like anything one single person does will not be enough to fix the condition our planet is in, but thankfully that isn’t true. It takes one person to want to make an impact, in order for more to follow! Going green is contagious. Thank you for making the planet a priority and thank you for including Go Green Go in your journey. We all appreciate the support.

So, you want to make a change, but don’t know where to start. No problem! I’m here to give you the best and easiest options to start at. Going green may seem like more work or a chore, but it’s actually so fun! Let’s get started on some these options, so that you can have as much fun as we do!

Ditch your ride:

Yes, the vehicle. You absolutely can do it! If you live in a city this will be a bit easier for you. Bust that old rusty bike out, air up those tires, and go green! I began using my vehicle less by riding my bike to the grocery store (can be anywhere). If you live alone or have a small family this is totally doable. Not to mention a good little sweat and calories burned! If you do not have a bike, don’t worry, there’s more options below.

Or you can rent a MetroBike on the CapMetro app. There’s 75 bike stations spread throughout Austin! The bike rental lasts 1 hour and anytime after that is $4/30 min. If you like your rental experience you can purchase a membership For an even bigger incentive… students receive a DISCOUNT! Check out more information on https://www.capmetro.org/metrobike

Here is a list of tips for your first CLEAN grocery run:

• Air up your tires
• Take backpack
• Wear helmet
• Wear comfortable shoes/clothing
• Only buy what you need!
• Take a pic and tag @GoGreenGo10 on Twitter!

Remember Recycling:

I promise it gets easy with practice. There is nothing better than having a full recycling bin and a partially empty trash bin on trash days. The first thing you need to know prior to becoming a recycle enthusiast. There’s a small triangular recycle symbol on the bottom of plastic containers with a #, 1-6 are recyclable! If they have any # higher than 6, then they can’t be recycled (boo). It was helpful for me to get my whole family on the same page, so communicate! Show the fam the brand new recycling bin they should place recyclables in and educate them over which plastics can be tossed in the bin. Before you know it, your family will be excited to toss something in the recycle bin (yay).

Beginner’s Tips

• Buy a separate bin to store recyclables inside your home
• Try and buy only recyclable plastic items!
• Rinse all items out before recycling
• Take a pic and tag @GoGreenGo on Twitter!

Excessive Electricity:

I am absolutely guilty of walking around my home, broad daylight, with every light on in my home (smh). But no more! I have been refraining from flicking any light switch, from the moment I wake up (6a) to sunset. Open those blinds and draw your curtains = enjoy the sun’s beautiful natural light! Your plants will also appreciate the sun’s rays hitting them all day. Even your wallet will appreciate the change lol. It may be hard to knock the habit during the first transitioning week, but with some effort + reminders, it will be a habit that sticks.

Tips:

• place sticky notes next to every light switch in your home (DON’T USE)
• set an alert on your phone for 7a (DON’T USE LIGHTS)
• remind all family members
• compare electricity bill to previous!

Now, I wish you all the very best start to your GoGreenGo journey! Just keep reminding yourself that it’s the little green things, that make the big green difference. Don’t forget to follow us on Twitter @GoGreenGo for more info and thanks for reading!