Do Just One Thing

Have you read the latest statistic that says humans may have enough microplastics in our bodies to equal that of a small spoon? It’s shocking, and it proves that plastics are everywhere. If you want to do one simple thing to significantly cut down on your consumption of microplastics, do this: Quit drinking from single-use plastic bottles. A recent scientific paper says you can cut up to 90% of your plastic intake by doing this one simple thing. Switch to filtered water and drink from a reusable metal bottle instead.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

What's one simple thing you can do to help your refrigerator work as efficiently as possible? Cover your food. When your leftovers or pitchers of water are inside your fridge, they release moisture, and that moisture forces the compressor in your fridge to work harder to keep everything else inside cool. Use food storage containers with lids or pitchers with caps on them to keep your fridge running like a lean, green refrigeration machine.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION

If you’re thinking of adopting a dog and really want to make sure you choose one that’s the best “climate friendly” breed, just look at their coat. Dogs with thick, heavy coats (think Siberian huskies) and those that have difficulty breathing with their short noses (like a French bulldog) do not do well in hot climates. Those with short coats also do not do well if the temperatures dip way below freezing. Owning either breed can push heating and cooling costs way up. It sounds silly, but it’s something to think about and -- more important -- always adopt, don’t shop.

ANDREWS MCMEEL SYNDICATION