Around the corner of World Environment Day every year, you might see an influx of articles and posts about the many ways you can help protect the environment: start community cleanups, volunteering, planting trees, carpooling – the list is endless. But you might be wondering where to even begin.
In this post, we’d like to suggest 5 simple first-steps anyone can take – you don’t even have to step out of home to start taking action!
1. Set intentions by journaling
It all starts with a mindful intention – meditate on it. And there’s nothing like pen and paper when it comes to making lists – maybe you can make a list of the actionable steps you really feel you can take to be more conscious as a consumer. Journaling is a great way to bring your thoughts and ideas one step closer to becoming tangible outcomes.
2. Watch a documentary
Awareness is the first step to any change. This World Environment Day, why not cozy up and watch an educational documentary about how our day-to-day actions and choices impact the environment?
We recommend:
– Cowspiracy: The Sustainability Secret
– Racing Extinction
– Before The Flood
– Meat the Truth
OR… any of these 8 thought-provoking documentaries about our oceans.
3. Cook an environmentally-friendly meal
There’s no doubt that going vegan is one of the best things anyone can do for the planet. This World Environment Day, try cooking a fully plant-based meal! Simply cook what you already know and love to cook, but replace all animal products with plant-based alternatives. We recommend OmniFoods for their clean label, delicious alternatives to meat. When it comes to dairy, check out these vegan cheeses and yogurts!
For tips and inspiration:
– 6 Unique Vegan Egg Recipes For You To Try!
– 8 Vegan + Zero Waste Blogs for you to Follow
– Time-Saving Vegan Cooking Tips For Beginners
–10 Best High-Protein Vegan Foods + A Recipe for Each
4. Do some research
On this day, dedicate some time to read articles about environmental issues and what we can do as consumers to tread lightly on our planet. Join online vegan groups, and explore local initiatives in your community.
5. Spread awareness
Building awareness in ourselves is one thing, but planting that seed in others goes a long way! When you come across interesting articles, share them on your social media for others to read. When you go out, carry a reusable bag or a reusable coffee mug! Others will observe and take note. If you are vegan, or have recently gone vegan, or aspiring to go vegan, talk about it with others! It all creates a ripple effect.
Feeling inspired to do some further reading? Check out these related articles:
– Top 3 Steps to Go Vegan: Tips from the HappyCowmunity
– 5 Unique Eco-Practices Adopted by this Vegan Community
– 10 Steps Towards an Eco-Friendly Lifestyle
– 10 Important Vegan Quotes About the Environment
– Five Common Concerns About Going Vegan: Answered
Go on and explore the rest of the HappyCow blog. To find vegan food near you, at any time and place, get the FREE HappyCow app. Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, and Twitter for vegan tips, stories, guides, recipes, and a lot more.
