How Green is Your City and What Can You Do to Make a Difference?

With a population of over 7 billion, our world is currently home to more people than it’s ever seen before. This all-time high in population means more of the Earth’s resources are being exhausted now than ever before. It’s crucial that as human beings we do our best to create as little carbon footprint as possible and keep our planet clean! How green do you think your city is? What can you do individually and as a community to make a difference within your city?
 
1. Get Waste Management Under Control
One of the most important steps to take is to get waste management under control. Consider how much waste you discard of each day. Think back even farther, and consider how many goods you actually use in a day. See if you can come up with alternatives to using so much paper or plastic. What can you do to simply use less in general? Using less each day means there is less waste for you to discard of at the end of the day as well.
 
When you do find that you need to throw something away, consider sending it somewhere other than the landfill. Paper, plastic and glass can be recycled; and if you’re discarding of fruit or vegetables, you might look into creating a compost bin for your garden. The natural breakdown of organic matter creates a nutrient rich soil – a perfect fertilizer for fruits, vegetables or flowers.
 
2. Create Efficient Public Transportation
What can you do to use your vehicle less? Not only will you save in gas money by doing this, but you also eliminate a huge environmental footprint. If you’re in a city where you have access to a bus or train, consider these modes of transportation as options. If these are not easily accessible, you might consider carpooling to work or to school.
 
According to Denver, Colorado car accident lawyers at The Sawaya Law Firm, in 2013, over 2 million people were injured in traffic accidents in the United States. Fewer cars on the roads could mean fewer accidents.
 
Those fortunate enough to live in larger cities often have more access to public transportation, as well as the ability to walk to and from work and school. Even if the distance is a little too far to walk, you might consider biking to your destination.
 
How does your city fare as far as walking and cycling paths are concerned? How is the bus system within the city? If you notice a lack in public transportation, check in with different organizations or with City Hall to see what you can do.
 
3. Buy Locally Grown Goodies
Keep resources circulating through your community by buying locally grown foods. Utilize this opportunity to rally together as a community. Are there any community gardens in your area? You might gather with others who have an interest in locally grown goods, and start a city farm or something similar in your town or city.
 

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