There seems to be no end to bad news about the state of our environment, but there is good news too. This bi-weekly Environmental Moment will highlight some good news and offer tips on how you can help reduce waste, energy, and use of plastics. This week’s moment includes a tip from Sara Clegg.
Good News: An Environmental Engineer in India has developed a method to convert medical PPE waste into construction bricks. He’s ramping up production to 15,000 per day and now has several buyers.
Green Tip #10: Did you know that your household cleaning products can contain chemicals that are carcinogens, can induce asthma, and pollute the air with their Volatile Organic Compounds (VOC’s)? For more information, visit the Environmental Working Group’s web site: EWG on Household Cleaners. In addition, these products are packaged in plastic containers (while the main container is easily recycled the spray nozzle will end up in the land fill). A better alternative is to make your own household cleaner, it’s easy and will save you money and reduce waste. Reuse an empty spray bottle and try this recipe from Sara Clegg: “The formula is 1/4 c. rubbing alcohol, 25 oz. water, 3 drops liquid dish soap and 6 drops essential oil. I use grapefruit oil.” Essential oils not only give the cleaner a nice scent, but many essential oils also have antibacterial, antiviral, antimicrobial, and antifungal properties. Happy cleaning!
