Sustainability Expert Vikki Gerrard La Crosse Explains How You Can Still Help Climate Change In Your Golden Years

Published on: 16 August 2022 Last Updated on: 19 February 2025

We all know that climate change is a huge problem. And it’s one that we need to start solving now. But what can we do? We’re not all scientists or politicians with the power to make significant changes.

According to sustainability expert Vikki Gerrard La Crosse, we can still make a difference even in our golden years. We can do many small things to reduce our energy consumption and help the environment.

Here Are Some Steps To Help You Climate Change In Your Golden Years:

Here are a few of her suggestions.

1. Reduce Electricity Consumption

The easiest thing we can do for the planet is to be conscious of the energy we waste. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average U.S. household wastes 10,000 kilowatt-hours of electricity each year. This is the equivalent of leaving a 100-watt light bulb on for 10 hours a day.

Households can reduce their electricity consumption and lower their electricity bill with simple changes. Turn off the lights when a room is not being used. If it’s daytime, take advantage of natural light.

Unplug electronics that don’t need to stay on when you leave the house, like the TV, coffee maker, and computer. These devices use energy even when turned off, so it’s important to unplug them completely. Using a power strip makes it easy to do this because you can turn off the power strip when you leave instead of unplugging each device individually.

2. Take Advantage Of Public Transportation

Take advantage of good public transportation if you live in an area with good public transportation. It’s not only good for the environment, but it can also be a nice break from driving. Public transportation can decrease your carbon footprint because buses and trains emit less pollution per passenger mile than cars.

Some areas, like more prominent cities, even offer discounts on public transportation for seniors. Check with your local transit authority to see what’s available in your area.

The American Public Transportation Association reports that if every U.S. household took just one trip on public transportation each week, we would save 4.2 billion gallons of gasoline annually.

This would also avoid emitting 27 million metric tons of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. If public transportation isn’t an option, Vikki Gerrard La Crosse suggests carpooling or biking for an eco-friendly way to get around.

3. Plant Trees And Gardens

Trees and plants are natural carbon dioxide absorbers. They take in the greenhouse gas and release oxygen back into the atmosphere. According to the Arbor Day Foundation, one tree can remove up to 48 pounds of carbon dioxide yearly.

You don’t need a lot of space to make a difference. Even a small garden can have an impact. If you don’t have a yard, you can grow plants in containers on a balcony or patio.

Gardening has many other benefits, too. It can help you relax, connect with nature, and get some exercise. And, of course, you’ll enjoy your labor’s fruits (or vegetables).

4. Recycle And Compost

Recycling and composting are great ways to reduce waste and help the environment. When you recycle, you’re keeping materials out of landfill. And when you compost, you’re creating natural fertilizer for your plants.

You can recycle many items that you use every day, like paper, plastic, and glass. Most communities have recycling programs, so it’s easy to do. Vikki Gerrard La Crosse recommends checking with your local municipality to see what’s accepted.

Composting is a little more work, but it’s worth it. You can compost food scraps and other organic material, like dead leaves and newspaper, to create a nutrient-rich soil amendment for your plants. Many different containers make composting easy, even for small spaces.

5. Use Less Water

Water is a precious resource, so it’s important to use it wisely. We never really think about it not being readily available, but climate change is affecting water availability in many parts of the world.

There are a few easy ways to conserve water at home. Turn the faucet off while you’re brushing your teeth or shaving. Don’t let the water run the whole time while doing the dishes. And water your plants during the cooler hours of the day to minimize evaporation.

If you can, consider adding a rain barrel to your garden. This will save you money on your water bill and is a great way to water your plants during dry spells.

To reduce water usage, you can also install low-flow fixtures, like faucet aerators and showerheads. These devices restrict water flow without affecting performance, so you’ll still get a good clean while using less water.

Finally, consider supporting organizations that are working to conserve water resources. One example is the Waterkeeper Alliance, which is a nonprofit organization that works to protect and restore waterways worldwide.

They have more than 300 local chapters in over 40 countries, making them one of the largest environmental organizations in the world. The Waterkeeper Alliance uses a grassroots approach to advocacy, working with individuals and communities to uphold the rights of waterways. They also work with the government and industry to ensure that water is protected for future generations.

Final Thoughts

Even in our golden years, we can still make a difference regarding climate change. Educating ourselves about the issue and taking small steps to become more sustainable can significantly impact the world.

Try implementing some tips above to reduce your carbon footprint and help the environment. And don’t forget to spread the word to your friends and family. We can all make a difference!

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Arnab

Arnab is a professional blogger, having an enormous interest in writing blogs and other jones of calligraphies. In terms of his professional commitments, He carries out sharing sentient blogs.

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5 Uses of Natural Gas

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Gratitude: A Journey to a Happier You (…Or So What Experts Say)

Gratitude is the quality of being thankful. In other words, it means seeking out what’s good and appreciating it. Think of the time when someone thanked you for something or maybe gave you a gift or token of appreciation. How did it make you feel? Pretty good, right? This is how the other person feels when you acknowledge their support by showing gratitude. Gratitude is the greatest of all gifts. While this feeling of gratefulness won’t come in a day, here are some simple ways you can practice expressing gratitude towards others. Express in words Words are the most underrated way to express gratitude. But also, the simplest and the most direct. When we don’t say the word, like a simple thank you, unknowingly, we are taking the other person for granted. Not expressing how grateful you are to them will give them the wrong idea, that they are not enough, or they are doing something wrong. Do you know it costs you nothing to express your compassion? Start at home; be grateful to your family first. Think about what and how to be grateful, and then adopt the actions and habits that will support this thinking. Tell someone how much you appreciate them and their efforts and see the life-changing effects your words bring. A Token of Gratitude Expressing gratitude is a gift, as said above. Words are indeed important, no doubt, but gifting something thoughtful is more permanent. Going out of the way and buying something meaningful that can be kept and treasured for life will surely put a smile on anyone’s face. When choosing a gift, the monetary value shouldn’t be the priority. Cards and other personalized gifts will be enough to make someone feel warm inside. Even a little something can make anyone feel special. Listen to What they Have to Say Not everyone is open about their emotions; sometimes, you need to ask. Actively participating in the conversation and listening to what they have to say is enough to make them feel good. A sense of belonging is all one wants from the other person. A simple conversation, a little of your time can make their day better, so why not? Start it from this moment, call someone you haven’t talked to in days, text someone, leave them a gratitude note, or write them a letter and put a smile on their face. In the end, gratitude makes you feel good too. Take nothing for granted Your domestic help, the server in a restaurant, the usher in a movie hall, and many more such unsung beings help you in your regular life. How often have you acknowledged their efforts? Don’t answer it, think about it. Drop a tip in the jar, tip your server, or give a cup of tea for your domestic help — these small gestures will fill their heart with joy. We are taught, ‘Count Your Blessings.’ Today’s world, we are so busy complaining that we lose sight of what we have. The study says grateful people are happier with high self-esteem and life-satisfaction. Random acts of kindness take you a long way, be kind. Give Compliments Often One of the easiest ways to show gratitude is through sincere compliments. If someone looks nice, tell them. If they did a good job, let them know. Compliments don’t have to be grand gestures; they can be small, simple words that make someone’s day brighter. The more genuine you are, the more impact your compliment has. People appreciate being seen and acknowledged for who they are and what they do. Be the person who notices the good in others and expresses it freely. Be Present We live in a world of distractions, with our attention often divided between various screens, tasks, and worries. Sometimes, you can offer someone your greatest gift is your full, undivided attention. When someone is talking to you, truly listen. Put away your phone, make eye contact, and engage in the conversation. Being fully present shows respect and appreciation for the other person’s time and presence. It’s a form of gratitude that requires no words, just your attention and focus. Write it Down Sometimes, words are more powerful when written down. Write thank-you notes, letters, or even a quick message. It doesn’t have to be formal or lengthy. A simple note saying how much someone’s actions meant to you can be incredibly meaningful. Journaling is another way to express gratitude. Every day, take a moment to jot down a few things you’re thankful for. It’s a small habit that shifts your mindset toward positivity and appreciation over time. Give Your Time Time is one of our most valuable resources, and giving it freely is a powerful way to show gratitude. Whether helping a friend move, volunteering at a local charity, or simply spending quality time with loved ones, your time can be the most meaningful gift. In today’s fast-paced world, giving your time shows that you care deeply about someone or something. The best part? It often leads to creating memorable moments that you and others will cherish. Final Thoughts Gratitude isn’t just a word! It’s a lifestyle choice that can transform your relationships and overall well-being. From expressing it verbally to small acts of kindness, practicing gratitude enriches both the giver and the receiver. When you start looking for reasons to be grateful, you’ll find them everywhere—in everyday moments. In people you interact with, and even in challenges. Getting caught up in what we don’t have or what’s going wrong is easy. But shifting the focus to what’s good in your life and expressing it often creates a ripple effect of positivity. Remember, showing gratitude isn’t about perfection; it’s about authenticity. It’s okay if your expression isn’t polished or perfectly timed. People appreciate genuine efforts over flawless execution. Gratitude grows with practice, so take small steps, and be mindful. 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Victoria Gerrard La Crosse On The Rise Of Eco-Friendly Consumer Products: How To Go Green Without Sacrificing Quality

It seems like everywhere you look, people are talking about going green. From celebrities touting the benefits of veganism to major corporations making pledges to reduce their carbon footprints, it's clear that environmentalism is becoming an increasingly important part of our society. But what does this mean for the average person? Are there ways to become more eco-friendly without making big sacrifices? Victoria Gerrard La Crosse says that the answer is definitely yes, and in this blog post we'll explore some of the best tips for reducing your impact on the planet without giving up anything in terms of quality or convenience. Stay tuned! Choose Recycled Or Sustainable Materials Whenever Possible Recycled materials are materials used before and processed to be used again. Sustainable materials are those that can be replenished or reused over and over. Using recycled or sustainable materials helps to conserve resources, reduce pollution and protect the environment. Whenever possible, choose recycled or sustainable materials over virgin materials. This is especially important for everyday items like paper towels, napkins, toilet paper, and coffee filters. You can also look for sustainable building materials for home improvements or renovations. Using recycled or sustainable materials is a straightforward way that you can help make a difference in the environment. Opt For Natural Cleaning Products Instead Of Harsh Chemicals Many conventional household cleaning products contain harsh chemicals that harm your health and the environment. Fortunately, several safe, natural alternatives are just as effective at getting the job done. For example, vinegar is a great all-purpose cleaner that can be used on everything from countertops to floors. Baking soda is another versatile product for cleaning, deodorizing, and scrubbing sinks and tubs. Lemon juice is another natural option that can be used to clean and disinfect surfaces. In addition to being safer for your family, natural cleaning products are often more affordable than their chemical-based counterparts. When it comes to keeping your home clean and healthy, there’s no need to sacrifice safety for effectiveness. Select Energy-Efficient Appliances When selecting new appliances for the home, it is essential to consider energy efficiency. Energy-efficient appliances use less electricity to run, saving money on energy bills and helping to reduce your carbon footprint. In addition, these appliances often come with unique features that can further improve their efficiencies, such as automatic shut-off and enhanced insulation. When selecting, compare the operating costs of different models to find the most energy-efficient option for your needs. You may also want to consider tax credits or other incentives available for energy-efficient appliances. By making intelligent choices about the appliances you select, you can help to conserve energy and save money on your utility bills. Install Solar Panels Or Other Renewable Energy Sources As the world increasingly relies on electronic devices, the energy demand will likely continue to rise. Solar panels offer a renewable energy source that can help to meet this demand. Solar panels convert sunlight into electricity, and they can be used to power everything from homes to businesses. Solar panels are becoming increasingly affordable, offering several benefits over traditional energy sources. They are clean and emissions-free, and they require little maintenance once they are installed. In addition, solar panels can be used in conjunction with other renewable energy sources, such as wind turbines or hydroelectric plants. As the world looks for ways to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, solar panels are likely to play an increasingly important role. Compost Kitchen Scraps And Garden Waste Composting is a great way to reduce household waste and provide valuable nutrients for your garden. Kitchen scraps and garden waste are perfect materials for composting, as they break down quickly and provide the ideal mix of carbon and nitrogen. You'll need a dark, airtight container with a lid to start. Fill the container with alternating layers of green and brown materials, such as kitchen scraps, lawn clippings, and leaves. Moisten the layers as you go, and stir the compost regularly to aerate it. In just a few weeks, you'll have rich, nutrient-rich compost perfect for enriching your soil. Drive Less And Walk Or Bike More Exercise is essential for maintaining good health, but finding time to go to the gym or run can be difficult. Fortunately, there are plenty of opportunities to get active without having to make a memorable trip to the gym. One way to fit in some extra activity is to walk or bike instead of driving whenever possible. Walking or biking to work, the store, or even just around the neighborhood can help you get some exercise while also saving time and money. And, as a bonus, walking or biking helps to reduce pollution and traffic congestion. So next time you have a short errand to run, consider leaving the car home and getting some fresh air instead. You May Also Check: Ideas to Design an Eco-friendly Home: Save This Planet Buy Locally-Grown Food There are many reasons to buy locally-grown food. Local food is often fresher and tastier than food shipped long distances. Local food also tends to be more nutritious, as it is typically harvested at the peak of ripeness. In addition, buying local food supports the local economy and helps to reduce environmental impact. When you buy from a local farmer, you know your money goes directly to supporting a small business. And, since local food doesn't have to travel far to reach your plate, it results in fewer emissions of greenhouse gases. So next time you're at the market, look for the locally-grown options and enjoy the taste of freshness. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle It's crucial to reduce, reuse, and recycle materials whenever possible. Minimizing the resources we use can help conserve those resources for future generations. Reusing items instead of discarding them helps prolong those items' life and prevents waste from going into landfills. Recycling materials helps to turn waste into new products, which reduces the need for new resources. Every bit helps when it comes to conserving our planet's limited resources. So next time you're about to throw something away, stop and consider whether it could be reduced, reused, or recycled instead. Final Thoughts Victoria Gerrard La Crosse notes that the rise of eco-friendly consumer products is a positive development. It is suitable for the environment, and it is good for business. Eco-friendly products are often more expensive than their traditional counterparts. Still, as more and more consumers become aware of the benefits of these products, they are likely to become more affordable. In the meantime, companies producing eco-friendly products will likely continue to prosper. As more and more consumers become aware of the importance of protecting the environment, they are demanding eco-friendly products. Safer for both humans and animals, eco-friendly products are made from sustainable materials and are free of harmful chemicals. Many companies have responded to this demand by offering a wide range of eco-friendly products, from cleaning supplies to clothing. While these products may cost a bit more than their conventional counterparts, they are sure to appeal to consumers looking for ways to reduce their impact on the planet. With the increasing popularity of eco-friendly products, we will likely see even more innovation in this area in the years to come. Read Also: What are the Benefits of Eco-friendly reusable carry bags? 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Sustainability Expert Vikki Gerrard La Crosse Explains How You Can Still Help Climate Change In Your Golden Years