We improve our habits, reduce our ecological footprint and positively impact the change we want to see in the world.
In recent years, the terms “sustainability” and “sustainable development” have been at the forefront of public debate, and not without reason, because the serious effects of climate change, as well as the generally unfavorable situation that the planet has reached, emphasize that it is time to act. Yes, most of the responsibility for the complex environmental problem lies with governments and industry. However, it is important that we as citizens consider how much we contribute to this situation, as well as how we can effectively reduce our environmental footprint.
Because through our choices and actions, we will gradually change the current situation, focus the attention of the government as well as businesses on a sustainable future, so that we can all make a coordinated comprehensive effort to protect our planet. Then the question arises, where do we start this “green” change? However, everything is simpler than we think, because by going to the green with his “ally”. Athens Brewery and by incorporating concepts such as “recycling”, “circular economy” and “sustainability” into our daily lives, we will be an example worth following for those around us for a better tomorrow.
So, in the following guide, we have compiled a list of tips that will help us improve our habits, save energy, water and food, and reduce carbon dioxide emissions in order to make a positive impact, that is, to make the change we hope for. look at the world not only for us, but more for future generations.
#1 We say no to plastic and choose recyclable materials
The first step to a more sustainable everyday life starts with replacing plastic with recyclable materials. Although we think of plastic as an accessible, cheap, convenient material, in fact, its global production is increasing, while a very small part of its production is recycled. It is for this reason that we replace plastic with cleaner, environmentally friendly materials that require less energy, such as paper, glass, metal, wood or bamboo, bioplastics (from corn starch, potato, straw, wood chips, etc.). and resources to produce, compared to plastic. However, replacing plastic with recyclable materials is one small step that will have a big impact by reducing the amount of waste ending up in our landfills and oceans.
#2 We give beer a second life through the circular economy
Natural resources and energy must be consumed to produce any packaging, the longer its life cycle, the less the burden on the environment. Therefore, in order to reduce the amount of waste we produce, we prefer to buy bulk or packaged products whose packaging can be reused, recycled, or given a second life. For example, when we enjoy his beers Athens Brewery, instead of throwing the glass bottle in the trash, we can return it because about 95% of the bottles it sells are returnable. What does it mean; This means that after we return the bottle, the same bottle will be cleaned through a special process and can be reused up to 20 times before being sent for recycling.
#3 We save water and don’t let a drop go to waste
Considering that 11% of people in the European Union suffer from water shortages, it is enough to understand that the conservation and efficient use of water is a priority for all of us. No, we won’t need to significantly change our habits to manage better, let alone water…water. When we do not use water, it is enough to close the tap, to eliminate possible leaks in our house, to reduce its unnecessary waste by washing our car or terrace with a bucket of water instead of a hose. In fact, on days when the water “rains”, we can collect it in large barrels and place it in our garden or yard and use it, or even better, we can recycle it and water our plants with it.
#4 We find ways to save energy at home
Saving energy is not only a way to reduce the cost of our bills, but it is also an act that “hugs” the environment. That’s why, instead of leaving devices on standby, we turn them green by unplugging them when we’re not using them. Alternatively, for greater convenience, we stack them and connect them to power strips with an integrated power supply switch. We choose high energy efficiency devices for our home, i.e. devices with the A+++ mark and consume up to 20% less energy, we replace traditional incandescent bulbs with LED bulbs that consume up to 80% less energy, with less impact on the environment. while living longer. In addition, good insulation that keeps heat in winter and cool in summer, reducing the need for heating and cooling, is a good investment and, together with the right thermostats, promises us the ideal atmosphere in our home, without us being burdened. environment.
#5 We say yes to a plant-based diet and use leftovers
A plant-based diet as well as reducing unnecessary food waste are two prerequisites for a more sustainable lifestyle. By including more plant-based foods in our diet and reducing our consumption of animal products, we significantly reduce our environmental footprint, while also helping to reduce emissions of methane, a gas produced by the meat and dairy industries. This particular gas increases the greenhouse effect, while it is the second most common man-made gas after carbon dioxide. As for the phenomenon of food waste, which has reached enormous proportions with serious social, economic and environmental impacts, we can at least reverse it in our kitchens. How will we manage? Buying what we really need for our meals, storing food more properly and efficiently, turning food scraps into new, delicious meals, and vegetable or fruit scraps into homemade broths and smoothies, respectively.
#6 We replace the car with a bicycle, public transport or car park
There is no doubt that traveling by bicycle or vehicle has many benefits, not only for the environment or society, but also for our health. Using a bicycle is one of the most environmentally friendly and fun ways to travel, it reduces our carbon footprint, reduces traffic congestion within the urban fabric, improves air quality in the city, and improves our quality of life. On the other hand, using public transportation is an economical way to get around without burdening the environment or spending endless hours looking for parking in downtown neighborhoods. In any case, if the use of a vehicle is necessary for an event where the whole family or friends will be present, we prefer to share our route, that is, to go together in one car, saving fuel and money.
It is important to remember that the fight for environmental protection is a collective effort that requires the participation of all of us to be effective. By adopting habits that reduce our ecological footprint, making everyday choices that contribute to a truly sustainable future, following the principles of a circular economy, conserving resources and overall sustainability, we become an example for others to follow by promoting a “green” culture. I want to watch. Let’s go green and “ally” with it Athens Brewery for a better future.