California Sustainable Summer
Embrace the Green: 10 Ways to Be Sustainable This Summer!
As the summer season approaches, the sun shines brighter, and nature beckons us outdoors. It's the perfect time to embrace sustainability and make eco-conscious choices that not only benefit the environment but also enhance our summer experiences! From beach trips to barbecues, there are plenty of opportunities to make a positive impact. Let's dive into ten ways you can be sustainable during the summer while enjoying the beauty of the season.
1. Choose Eco-Friendly Transportation:
Reduce your carbon footprint by opting for sustainable transportation. Instead of driving alone, consider carpooling, biking, or using public transportation when heading to summer events or exploring new places. Especially at UCSB, biking is the most efficient way to get around with plenty of bike paths, local bike repair shops, and safe biking practices. If possible, plan a nature walk or hike nearby, embracing the beauty of the outdoors while minimizing emissions.
2. Embrace Zero-Waste Picnics:
Summer picnics are a great way to gather with friends during the summer season! Pack reusable cutlery, plates, and cups, and opt for cloth napkins instead of disposable ones. Prepare fresh, local, and organic snacks to support local farmers and reduce your food's carbon footprint. You can also experiment with a new vegan recipe!
Our favorite vegan picnic charcuterie can be found here.
3. Conserve Water:
During the summer, water consumption tends to spike. Be mindful of your water usage by turning off the tap while brushing your teeth, taking shorter showers, and collecting rainwater for watering plants. Encourage others to adopt water-saving habits to make an even greater impact!
4. Ditch Single-Use Plastics:
Summer often means sipping refreshing beverages. Say goodbye to single-use plastic straws, cups, and water bottles by investing in reusable alternatives like stainless steel or bamboo straws and refillable water bottles. These small changes can significantly reduce plastic waste, protecting our oceans and wildlife.
Our favorite water bottle! Proceeds go to preserving our National Parks.
5. Green Your Beach Days:
Love spending time by the beach? Bring a reusable tote bag to carry your essentials and pack a separate bag for collecting trash along the shore.
6. Opt for Sustainable Sun Protection:
Protect your skin and the environment by choosing reef-safe, mineral-based sunscreen options. Traditional sunscreens containing harmful chemicals can cause coral bleaching and harm marine life when washed off into the water. Opt for environmentally-friendly brands to enjoy a guilt-free day in the sun.
7. Go Solar for Outdoor Lighting:
Illuminate your summer nights with solar-powered outdoor lights. These eco-friendly alternatives harness the sun's energy during the day, providing soft, sustainable light at night.
8. Participate in Community Green Initiatives:
Check out local environmental organizations or join hands with our Gauchos Go Green community to participate in green initiatives and events. Plant trees, clean up parks, or volunteer at sustainable festivals to make a positive impact in your community.
9. Practice Mindful Consumption:
As the summer sales hit, practice mindful consumption by opting for quality over quantity. Choose durable, sustainable products that last longer and reduce waste. Supporting ethical and eco-conscious brands can make a big difference in reducing the environmental impact of our purchases.
Check out this article.
10. Educate and Inspire Others:
Spread the message of sustainability and inspire others to join the movement. Share your eco-friendly summer experiences on social media, participate in educational workshops, and engage in conversations about the importance of being environmentally responsible during the summer and beyond. Tag us in your #greensummer post, we would love to see what you are up to!
This summer, let's make sustainability a part of our adventures, gatherings, and daily routines! By incorporating these ten sustainable practices, we can create lasting change for a greener, more eco-conscious world. Embrace the green, enjoy the beauty of nature, and let's make this summer the most sustainable one yet!
