Celebrating Earth Day Every Day

April 22, 2021 by Nicki Bennett

5 Ways You Make an Impact on the Earth in your Daily Life

Stop buying bottled water. Each year, close to 20 billion plastic bottles are tossed in the trash. Carry a reusable bottle in your bag, and you'll never put another bottle in a landfill, ocean, lake, or river again. If you're nervous about the quality of your local tap water, look for a model with a built-in filter.
Buy in Bulk & Ditch the Plastic Packaging. While it is a little more work, bring your jars and reusable plastic bags to pick up bulk items. Grains, spices, produce and snacks are readily available in bulk. Many areas have stores where you can refill common household items like soap and lotion. Many personal hygiene products are also now available plastic-free. Try bar shampoo & conditioner, zero waste toothpaste, and plastic-free deodorant. Always look for alternatives for items that come in plastic packaging. It might take some shifts in how you shop, and the products you use, but there is a lot of plastic-free alternatives available.
Cook more. Not only is it healthier, but making your own meals doesn’t involve takeout containers or doggy bags. For those times when you do order in or eat out, tell the establishment you don’t need any plastic cutlery or bring your own food-storage containers to restaurants for leftovers.
Purchase items secondhand. New toys and electronic gadgets, especially, come with all kinds of plastic packaging—from those frustrating hard-to-crack shells to twisty ties. Search the shelves of thrift stores, neighborhood garage sales, or online postings for items that are just as good when previously used. For Sailors, most areas have secondhand and consignments marine gear shops. These stores can be a treasure trove, plus you'll save yourself a few bucks, too.
Recycle and Compost. I know it sounds like a no-brainer, but currently, less than 14% of plastic packaging is recycled. Find out what is and isn't recycled in your area and make an effort to properly recycle. Composting takes natural waste out of the landfills. It is easy and most municipalities have compost programs so you can properly dispose of your organic waste.

Resources for Clean Boating and Initiatives for Sailors

Sailors for the Sea

Sailors for the Sea is our prime partner for ocean health. With World Oceans Day arriving on June 8th, less than two weeks ahead of Summer Sailstice, we’ll be working with them to celebrate both sailing and ocean health. (Don’t worry, we’re not forgetting about our Great Lakes ‘freshwater coast’ and all the watersheds that appreciate your stewardship as well!) Not so fun fact from Sailors for the Sea: Only 6% of the animals listed & protected by the Endangered Species Act live in the ocean.

Two of our favorite programs from Sailors for the Sea are: Stopping Single-Use Plastics and Clean Regattas. Go visit Sailors for the Sea to find out how you can get involved and start making an impact today.