Earth Day 2024: From ACs to recycling old devices and phone covers, do these 9 things for a ‘greener’ plant

On Earth Day today, each of us has the opportunity to contribute to environmental conservation and the well-being of our planet. By taking small steps and actions, we can make significant strides towards a greener future. Here are nine simple yet impactful ways to make a difference.

Electronic waste poses a significant threat to the environment, and one effective approach to mitigate this is by reusing or recycling old products. For instance, repurposing smartphones as music players, security cameras, or baby monitors, and utilizing laptops as Chromebooks or smart home hubs, can help minimize electronic waste.

Recycling your old devices can contribute to the reduction of global e-waste. Therefore, it's important to dispose your old products properly before purchasing new ones.

Many brands now choose eco-friendly packaging crafted from recycled materials. While consumers may not directly handle the packaging, when shopping at brick-and-mortar stores, they can request products to be wrapped in recyclable or reusable materials.

Transitioning to digital writing pads or utilizing your smartphone's notes app for note-taking and reminders may be more challenging than anticipated, but it can significantly reduce paper consumption.

While many air conditioners and refrigerators now utilize ozone-friendly and less harmful refrigerants, consider purchasing models with R32 coolant for ACs and r600a coolant for refrigerators whenever feasible, as they are free of CFCs and HFCs.

Since the past two years, several smartphone brands have stopped giving chargers. So if your new phone too comes without a charger, let it be that way. New phone does not mean that the charger too has to be new

Plastics are hazardous for Earth and so try not buying silicone back covers. Alternatively, you can go for polycarbonate or leather back covers for your gadgets.

Always buy energy-efficient products that consume less energy. Look for home appliances that have at least a 4-star or 5-star energy rating. This will not only help save the environment but also save electricity bills.

Try to use alternative energy sources. Solar is one option. You can install solar panels at your home to power some lights or appliances. Or you can use solar-powered devices like solar lights, solar-powered geysers, etc.