With summer fast approaching, we've got some fun enviro-friendly vacay tips for you and your crew!
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Whether it's a sunny beach retreat or an invigorating hiking excursion, summer vacation often entails traveling to a fun destination. Enviro-friendly vacation planning can not only positively impact the environment, but it can also save you money! Purchasing recycled or recyclable travel gear, being mindful of proper trash disposal, and even maintaining your vehicle can significantly lend to your environmental stewardship efforts. Read on to discover some great tips that the whole family can use!
Paper products, dishware, and some travel items such as camping gear are now made of recycled materials. Purchasing items that are made of recycled materials helps to sustain the recycling market. You could also consider purchasing recyclable or reusable items. Diverting materials out of the landfill through reuse and recycling is a win-win for the environment!
Whether it's a sub sandwich or a new pair of pool googles, some packaging may be recyclable. It is important to learn what can be recycled before throwing it into the trash. Place any disposable items into the proper receptacle, and be sure to check for a label on the item or bin for guidance. And if you're in a spot without trash receptacles, collect all of your trash and keep it with you until the items can be properly disposed of.
If you're traveling by car, try the following to keep your car running smoothly and cleanly:
If you're looking for some enviro-forward games, check the options below to keep the whole family entertained!
Pass the time by playing Texas Travel Bingo! Diagonal, horizontal, or vertical, this game is sure to spell out enviro-fun and education any way you play it.
Kids can learn about conservation with River & Sky's Lone Star Activity Book! You can download individual pages to print or order a free copy of the book.
If a staycation is the name of your game, nuzzle-up to these environmentally friendly ideas at home.
Not everyone will be hitting the road to take a destination vacation this summer. Perhaps you're keeping it local or staying in and creating some vacay magic in the comforts of home. Utilize the tips below to make a positive environmental impact at home.
Choose Eco-Friendly Transportation - If you are venturing out to visit local attractions, parks, museums, or libraries, consider walking or riding bikes if your destination is nearby. If you're going a farther distance, consider public transportation options or carpooling with friends or family.
Irrigate Responsibly - Staying home may give way to finally getting around to yard work. When watering your yard, try watering less frequently and/or at night to prevent rapid water evaporation during hot summer days. You may also consider incorporating plant species that are native to Texas, which require less water to thrive.
Visit Your Local Grower - Summer's a great time to visit the local farmers market! In addition to discovering some unique culinary delights, you may also observe how sustainable growing practices, such as using fewer herbicides and pesticides, can positively impact the environment and human health.
Compost At Home - Composting is a rewarding project the whole family can participate in! It teaches re-use and recycling habits and may promote the reduction of excess food consumption by helping us to be more mindful of food waste. Not to mention, you'll have a homemade, eco-friendly topsoil that you can use to grow produce!
Volunteer at a Local Clean-up - If you would like to venture out locally but also participate in a project that's both educational and environmentally beneficial, find a local clean-up through your Keep Texas Beautiful affiliate. It's a great opportunity to help keep Texas' air, land, and waterways clean!