In case you haven’t heard, today is Blog Action Day, or a day when
bloggers around the web will unite to put a single important issue on everyone’s mind – the environment.
I think this is a great demonstration of the power that bloggers have to influence, and even bring about change with important issues, like the environment.
However, change is never easy. I’ve found that the most effective changes almost always start small, and are built upon. So if you’re like me and want to start becoming a little more eco-friendly, read on. I’ve found a few tricks that anyone can do to start treating the environment a little better, all from within the friendly confines of your bathroom.
- Don’t flush every time. I did a mission’s trip in Mexico, and while they technically did have plumbing, it didn’t always act like it. The little town’s sewer system wasn’t quite as advanced as you or I are accustomed to, and backups were frequent across the town. So, we implemented this simple rule, and I still use it today:
If it’s Yellow, let it Mellow
If it’s Brown, flush it DownWhile it’s not the prettiest way to save water, it does get the job done. (I usually skip this rule when company comes over.) The toilet can be a huge waste of water, considering each flush uses around 5 or 6 gallons of water. And if we’re healthy we should be going to the bathroom many times per day. Multiply that by the family members in your house, and you’ve got a lot of water. If you can flush only every other time, you’re saving a lot of water. - Turn off Your Water While Soaping Up. Instead of lathering up your hair and bod with the water running, just turn it off. This can save quite a bit of water as well, as a good chunk of your shower time consists of this. Plus, having the water running
- Turn off the Water While Brushing Your Teeth. Another simple fix. I used to keep the water running while I brushed my teeth, and I never knew why. I just grew up doing it. I haven’t done any conclusive tests, but I guesstimate this could save a gallon or so. Depending on how thorough you are at brushing your teeth…
- Don’t Wash Your Bath Towels Every Day. You’re clean when you exit the shower, right? So your towel should be too. Try and reuse it a few times before you stick it in the wash. Washing machines can use around 22 gallons per load. Any way you can reduce the number of washes, the better. Plus your towels will last longer too.
- Spare a square or two. This tip is not for the faint of stomach. When relieving yourself, try to use as little of toilet paper as possible. Without going into too much detail, let’s just say that getting the most out of your toilet paper can really help the reduce the consumption of the vital bathroom accessory. Taking the “minimalist” mindset when using the stuff can go a long way. (Brett’s got a great related article on what to do if/when you run out. Hilarious.)
So there you have it. If you got any tips to conserve while in the bathroom, or the rest of the house for that matter, drop it in the comments. Every little bit helps.