The concept of practicing random acts of kindness has been part of our collective consciousness for years. Whether it’s holding a door open for someone, lifting luggage into the overhead bin, or maybe even giving a simple smile to a stranger who needs it, most of us try and do what we can to help spread kindness to others in our life. But it’s important to remember that people aren’t the only ones who can benefit from our kindness. This year for Earth Day, we should all take some time to practice random acts of kindness that benefit the environment.
If you’re up for the challenge, and looking for ways that you and your family can be just a little kinder to the Earth, here are a few ideas to get you started.
- Pick up trash – Picking up trash, especially in natural areas, doesn’t have to be an extensive organized project that requires a big commitment on your part. It can be as simple as picking up a plastic bottle next to the trail and recycling it. Or reaching down and grabbing a candy wrapper or fast-food bag in the park that someone left. It’s easy to say that “It’s not mine, so it’s not my responsibility.” But being kind means doing the right thing even if you don’t have to.
- Eliminate single-use plastics – Take some time to go through your home and find as many single-use plastic containers as you can. You’ll likely be amazed at how many you use that you don’t even think about. Once you’re aware of these, you can start finding reusable alternatives that are just as easy and practical as the disposable options. Some grocery stores sell milk in reusable gallon jugs. Or look into milk delivery services that offer milk in reusable glass bottles. Bring reusable water bottles, coffee mugs, utensils, and straws with you if you think you might need them. And consider buying things like honey at local farmers’ markets where they’re likely sold in glass or other reusable containers.
- Ped Power – It’s easy to jump in the car whenever we need to go somewhere, but before you reach for the keys, ask yourself if your destination is close enough for you to walk to, or even ride a bike. While that isn’t always possible, especially depending on where you live, it might surprise you how often it is a realistic option. And even if you do need to take the car, consider grouping your errands as close to each other as possible. Then, instead of driving from one destination to another, park in one spot and walk to all the other places you need to go.
- Cut Idle Time – One of the most overlooked ways to cut back on carbon emissions is to be mindful of the time you spend in the car while it’s idling. If you’re in a parking lot waiting for someone to run in and grab something from the store, turn the car off instead of allowing it to idle. If it’s hot, roll down the windows. If it’s cold, put on a coat. Also, instead of going through the drive through at restaurants, pharmacies, or banks, you can park your car and walk inside. These small steps might not be as comfortable or convenient, but they are much kinder to the environment.
Being kind isn’t always easy. It isn’t always convenient. But how often have you practiced random acts of kindness and regretted doing it? And one of the most beautiful aspects of these acts of kindness is that they not only benefit the people (or the environment) they’re directed at, but they also tend to have a ripple effect that you might never even be aware of. If someone sees your act, they might be inspired to follow your lead. Your children will notice your behavior without you having to say a word, and they will mimic that behavior for the rest of their lives. In this way, the benefits of your kindness will increase exponentially.
It's easy to overlook small acts of kindness because they often seem inconsequential. But they never are.
