1. Heading to the park or out to the trails? Pick up 5 to 10 pieces of litter while you are there!
2. Open up the blinds during the day to utilize natural light over electricity
Or to keep cool, shut the blinds or use curtains to block out heat from the outdoors
3. Water your lawn or garden early in the morning
The later in the day that you water your plants, the warmer the temperature becomes. Warmer weather will cause the water to evaporate quicker, which causes you to use more water to keep your plants hydrated.
Pro tip: Be sure to also keep the water used IN the garden/lawn! Letting the water to flow down the street/pavement allow it to will pick up harsh chemicals on the road from our vehicles and transport it to our precious watershed. (Same goes for washing your car).
4. Look into composting services for your home/apartment/etc.
Greater Denver has numerous options for composting services and some counties even have composting programs. Look into what options exist near your home!
5. Want an ice coffee or iced tea? Brew at home!
Instead of buying a single serving from a coffee shop, brew your drink or preference the night before and throw it in the fridge. It'll be nice and cold for you in the morning. Here is an easy recipe for making your own cold brew overnight! https://www.simplyrecipes.com/recipes/how_to_make_cold_brew_coffee/
6. Swap your sunscreen
Sunscreen is crucial in sunny Colorado, especially in the summertime. Look for sun protection that does not use oxybenzone and octinoxate. Studies show that these chemicals have played a role in bleaching coral in oceans around the world and negatively effecting natural bodies of water such as lakes and rivers.
7. Pack your Reusable materials
Covid-19 safety measures encourage food establishments to use single-use materials to prevent the spread of germs. While you will likely have to receive your items in a single-use container, you can reduce waste by bringing your own cutlery, a reusable straw, and of course your own water bottle!