Fighting Pollution: Small Actions, Big Impact

Pollution is everywhere: in the air, water, and soil. While we can't stop drinking water, breathing, or planting our lands, we can take action to reduce pollution. This introduction will explore the different types of pollution and ways to reduce them. For example, we can plant and care for trees, switch to electric or hand-powered lawn equipment, and use less energy. We can also get an energy audit and turn off electrical items we're not using.

Turn off electrical appliances when not in use

Turning off electrical appliances when they are not in use is a simple way to reduce your energy usage and, therefore, your carbon footprint. This is because electrical appliances use energy, and the production of energy often involves the burning of fossil fuels, which releases carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Carbon dioxide is a greenhouse gas and is the main driver of climate change.

You can turn off appliances at the plug, or you can use a power strip, which allows you to turn off multiple appliances at once. This is especially useful for appliances that go into 'standby mode', which still use energy even when they are not being used. Examples of these include TVs, computers, and games consoles. You can also unplug chargers when they are not in use, as they will still be using small amounts of energy if left plugged in.

Another way to reduce your energy usage is to switch to more energy-efficient appliances. For example, you could switch to an electric or hand-powered lawnmower, as gas-powered lawnmowers and leaf or snow blowers often lack pollution control devices. In fact, an hour of running a lawnmower can produce nearly the same amount of pollution as a 100-mile car trip!

You can also reduce your energy usage by making small changes to your daily routine. For example, you could take shorter showers, or wash your clothes at a lower temperature. You could also try to use appliances less by, for example, hanging your clothes out to dry instead of using a tumble dryer, or opening a window instead of turning on the air conditioning.

Don't burn your garbage

Burning your household garbage is dangerous to your health and the environment, and is generally against the law in Minnesota. If you're still using a burn barrel, wood stove, or fire pit for your trash, contact your county about arranging for trash hauling services.

Burning garbage releases harmful substances and particles such as dust, smoke, gases, soot, and odours into the air. These pollutants can cause respiratory problems and other health issues. It also contributes to climate change by releasing greenhouse gases.

Instead of burning your garbage, you can recycle or compost it. Recycling helps to reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, and composting organic waste can improve soil quality and reduce the need for chemical fertilisers.

If you must burn your garbage, do so safely and responsibly. Use a proper incinerator that meets environmental standards and follow local regulations. Make sure the fire is contained and controlled, and never leave it unattended. Wear protective gear such as a mask and gloves to minimise exposure to harmful substances.

By not burning your garbage, you can help improve air quality, protect your health, and reduce your impact on the environment. It is important to dispose of waste properly and find alternative methods to burning, such as recycling and composting, to contribute to a cleaner and more sustainable future.

Switch to electric or hand-powered lawn equipment

Gas-powered small engines like those on lawnmowers and leaf or snow blowers often lack pollution control devices. An hour running a lawn mower can produce nearly the same amount of pollution as a 100-mile car trip! This is because gas-powered lawn equipment often lacks the pollution control devices that are standard in cars.

Switching to electric or hand-powered lawn equipment is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and improve air quality. Electric lawnmowers, for example, are much quieter and produce zero emissions. They are also easier to maintain since they don't require gas or oil changes. Hand-powered lawn equipment, such as push mowers and rakes, are even better for the environment since they don't require any electricity. They are also often cheaper to purchase and maintain than gas-powered or electric options.

If you're not ready to switch to electric or hand-powered lawn equipment, there are still some things you can do to reduce pollution. For example, you can make sure your gas-powered lawn equipment is well-maintained and tuned up regularly. This will help it run more efficiently and produce fewer emissions. You can also try to use your lawn equipment during cooler times of the day, as hotter temperatures can increase the amount of pollution produced.

Another option is to look into battery-powered lawn equipment. These tools are becoming increasingly popular and can be a great alternative to gas-powered options. Battery-powered lawn equipment is usually quieter and produces fewer emissions than gas-powered tools. They are also easier to maintain since you don't have to worry about gas or oil changes. However, it's important to note that battery-powered tools may not be as powerful as gas-powered options and may not be suitable for larger yards or heavy-duty tasks.

Overall, switching to electric or hand-powered lawn equipment is a great way to reduce pollution and improve air quality. These options are quieter, produce fewer emissions, and are often easier to maintain than gas-powered tools. By making this switch, you can help create a healthier and more sustainable environment for yourself and your community.

Get an energy audit

You can help to reduce pollution by getting an energy audit. An energy audit is an assessment of your home's energy efficiency. It can help you identify areas where you can reduce your energy consumption and save money on your energy bills. During an energy audit, a qualified auditor will inspect your home's insulation, windows, doors, heating and cooling systems, and appliances to determine how much energy your home is using and where improvements can be made.

After the audit, the auditor will provide you with a report that outlines the recommended improvements and their potential energy and cost savings. Some common recommendations may include upgrading to more energy-efficient appliances, adding insulation to your home, or sealing gaps around windows and doors to prevent air leaks.

By implementing the suggestions from the energy audit, you can reduce your energy consumption and lower your carbon footprint. This not only helps the environment by reducing pollution and greenhouse gas emissions but also saves you money on your utility bills.

To get started, you can contact your local utility company or a certified energy auditor in your area. They will be able to provide you with more information about the process and the potential benefits for your home. Getting an energy audit is a great way to take control of your energy usage and make a positive impact on the environment.

Plant and care for trees

Trees are an important part of the ecosystem and can help to reduce pollution. They filter pollutants and absorb carbon dioxide, as well as releasing oxygen into the atmosphere and helping to cool our homes.

To plant a tree, you should first research the best type of tree for your local area and climate. You should also consider the size of the tree at maturity and whether it will fit in the space you have available. You can then either buy a young tree or grow one from a seed. If you are buying a young tree, make sure that it is healthy and has a strong root system. You will need to dig a hole that is big enough for the tree's roots and place the tree in the hole, filling in the space around the roots with soil. You should then water the tree regularly, especially during dry periods.

Caring for a tree involves regular maintenance such as pruning and mulching. Pruning helps to remove dead or diseased branches and encourages healthy growth. You should also keep an eye out for pests and diseases that can harm trees, and take appropriate action if you spot any problems. Regular watering is also important, especially during the tree's first few years.

Trees can also be cared for by providing them with nutrients and protecting them from damage. Fertiliser can be added to the soil to provide extra nutrients, and mulch can be used to help retain moisture and prevent weeds from growing. Trees should also be protected from physical damage, such as being hit by cars or having their roots damaged by construction work.

Finally, it is important to consider the long-term care of trees. This includes regular maintenance such as pruning and mulching, as well as monitoring the tree's health and taking action if it shows signs of distress. Trees can live for many years, and proper care can help to ensure their longevity.

Frequently asked questions