To start, I'm going to be more conscious about my use of electricity and the lengths of my showers. I already waste a TON of electricity by running my fan when I'm not in my room and keeping charger plugs plugged in when I'm not using them. And my showers are really ridiculously long! I get in trouble from time to time for them, and since I'll be sharing a bathroom with several other people for the next several years, I need to learn how to cut down my time anyways! It'll be good to get in that habit before I start paying my own water bills, too.
Next, I'll be limiting my use of bottled water. We recently got a Brita pitcher, and the water from it is quite good! I have one ready for my dorm, as well. California is in an extreme drought, and the bottled water industry is really taking a toll on the state. Even though I'm just one person, every little bit helps! I know it'll be difficult to COMPLETELY eliminate bottled water from my life, but even just choosing not to drink it at home and bringing around my own bottles is a pretty good start.
I'm not too sure what I want to do yet with household chemicals, since I don't have any purchasing power over them in my own home. I can, however, use other means of cleaning things like using vinegar and warm water when cleaning things! I also have control of my makeup, perfumes, and hygiene products and can take a closer look into what I should eliminate or substitute in my beauty and hygiene routines.
I'm really excited about this; I want to reduce my own personal waste and create a better environment for myself and for others.
If you haven't seen the either of the documentaries yet, check them out! They're both very interesting, and you can find them on Netflix. Who knows, maybe they'll inspire you to go a little greener too!
