We Try Better Planet Friendly Actions

Sustainability and positive impact are core to IRK’s values. That’s why we’ve teamed up with the nonprofit organization, WeTryBetter.com, to better encourage everyone to make a difference for our shared planet.

What is WeTryBetter.com? It’s a program designed to promote planet-positive actions, no matter how big or small, with a photo of your action. With 1 MILLION images, we can generate $10 MILLION in donations for planet-positive initiatives.

Adopting planet-friendly actions not only reduces our environmental footprint but also contributes to the well-being of ecosystems, wildlife, and future generations. From reducing waste and conserving energy to supporting renewable resources and advocating for environmental policies, there are numerous ways we can make a difference. Below is a comprehensive list of planet-friendly actions that you can incorporate into your lifestyle. By embracing these practices, you can play a vital role in creating a more sustainable and eco-friendly world. Let’s work together to protect and preserve our beautiful planet for ourselves and for future generations.

Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

• Recycle: Separate recyclable materials like paper, glass, plastic, and metal and place them in designated recycling bins.
• Compost: Compost food scraps and yard waste to reduce methane emissions from landfills and create nutrient-rich soil.
• Reduce Single-Use Plastics: Use reusable shopping bags, water bottles, and containers to reduce plastic waste.
• Buy Recycled Products: Support products made from recycled materials to close the recycling loop.

Conserve Energy

• Energy-Efficient Appliances: Replace old appliances with Energy Star-rated models.
• LED Lighting: Switch to LED light bulbs to reduce energy consumption.
• Unplug Electronics: Unplug devices and chargers when not in use to eliminate “phantom” energy usage.
• Programmable Thermostat: Use a programmable thermostat to optimize heating and cooling.

Conserve Water

• Fix Leaks: Repair any leaks in faucets, toilets, or pipes to conserve water.
• Water-Efficient Appliances: Install water-efficient appliances and fixtures.
• Collect Rainwater: Use rain barrels to collect rainwater for gardening.

Better Transportation

• Walk, Bike, or Use Public Transport: Reduce car usage by walking, biking, or using public transportation.
• Carpool: Share rides with friends, family, or coworkers to reduce emissions.
• Electric Vehicles: Consider switching to an electric or hybrid vehicle to reduce carbon emissions.

Better Sustainable Shopping

• Local and Seasonal Produce: Buy locally grown and seasonal produce to reduce carbon emissions from transportation.
• Organic and Sustainable Products: Choose organic and sustainably produced goods to support eco-friendly practices.
• Second-Hand Shopping: Purchase second-hand or refurbished items to reduce waste.
• Clothing Swaps: Don’t spend a penny and swap your second-hand item for another. Organize a swap party with friends. 

Reduce Carbon Footprint

• Plant Trees: Plant trees and support reforestation projects to absorb carbon dioxide.
• Carbon Offsetting: Offset your carbon footprint by investing in renewable energy or conservation projects.

Environmental Advocacy

• Educate Others: Spread awareness about environmental issues and encourage others to take planet-friendly actions.
• Support Environmental Policies: Advocate for policies that promote renewable energy, conservation, and sustainability.

Better Lifestyle Choices

• Reduce Meat Consumption: Eat less meat and dairy or choose plant-based alternatives to reduce the environmental impact of livestock farming.
• Green Gardening: Use organic gardening practices, plant native species, and avoid chemical pesticides and fertilizers.
• Minimalism: Adopt a minimalist lifestyle to reduce consumption and waste.

Renewable Energy

• Solar Panels: Install solar panels or use solar-powered products to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
• Wind Energy: Support wind energy projects and consider using small-scale wind turbines if feasible.

Community Engagement

• Join Environmental Groups: Participate in or support environmental organizations and community initiatives.
• Volunteer for Cleanups: Participate in local clean-up events to remove litter and pollution from natural areas. Volunteering reduces stress and increases positive, relaxed feelings by releasing dopamine. By spending time in service to others, volunteers report feeling a sense of meaning and appreciation, both given and received, which can have an stress-reducing effect.

By incorporating these planet-friendly actions into your daily life, you can make a positive impact on the environment and help create a more sustainable world for future generations. Take a photo of your action and share it on the WeTryBetter website and you can help raise millions to wetrybetter.com/irkmagazine