The most common products found in our homes can be some of the worst for the earth. Some aren't biodegradable, others are toxic and some consume energy like its going out of style. Behold, the 10 worst things for the environment that are more than likely lurking around your home.
Styrofoam Cups
They aren't biodegradable and every time you bring one home from your local takeout restaurant and throw it away, it's heading for a landfill, where it will fester for a longer than your time on earth.
Paper products and plastic utensils
Sure you can recycle paper, but how many of really do? It's not just about the ruined paper you recycle after your printer mangles its latest job; we're talking things like paper towels and napkins that are usually disposed without much thought. The same goes for plastic utensils that are usually tossed after one use. Try switching to reusable dish cloths, towels and metal utensils instead. At the very least, wash your plastic utensils for reuse.
Bleached coffee filters
Dioxins, a chemical very harmful to the earth, are used to bleach the coffee filters you use every day. If your machine doesn't have a permanent filter, consider buying unbleached filters on your next trip to the grocery store.
Food packaging
Multiple layers of plastic, cardboard, not to mention secondary packaging like plastic bubble wrap and Styrofoam peanuts are one huge waste that more often than not end up in landfills. Try to find products that use material that is recycled or at the very least, recyclable and buy in bulk when possible.
Wood products
Woods like mahogany and teak are popular for hardwood flooring. So popular in fact, that the demand for them is causing the tropical rainforest where they are found, to take a huge hit. If you love the look of hardwood floor or wood furniture, find products made by companies that have received clearance from certified forestry programs. You can also finding items made from renewable resources such as bamboo.
Household cleaners
Using natural cleaners will be a much safer option than the common products sold on the markets that contain harsh chemicals. You can also use common household items to make your own cleaners. Vinegar and baking soda are both natural products that can be used in a variety of functions around your home.
High-octane gas
Not many cars use high-octane gasoline these days, but the substance is pretty bad for the earth - and your car. You can reduce the amount of gasoline you require by walking, biking or using public transportation instead.
PVC plastic
Unfortunately toy manufacturers actually use this carcinogen to make their products, thus exposing your children to them. Between that and lead paint, seek out toys made from organic cotton and wood, like the new line from Toys "R" Us, for the small members of your family to play with.
Incandescent bulbs
Now that energy-efficient bulbs are widely available and a comparable cost to the old, traditional bulbs, there isn't any reason not to switch. However, because the compact fluorescent bulbs do contain some mercury, make sure you dispose of them properly and take proper measures if one should happen to break in your home.
Disposable batteries
Alkaline batteries that are thrown in the garbage and end up in landfills leak chemicals into the ground and water supply. Invest in the rechargeable Nickel Metal Hydride or Lithium lon options to prevent some of these toxins from taking their toll on the earth. They'll also save you some money in the long run!
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