As global temperatures reach record highs, the urge to crank up the AC, travel to distant beaches, and host large outdoor gatherings peaks. While summer is a time for relaxation, it is also a period of heightened strain on our ecosystems and energy grids. Living sustainably during the summer doesn’t mean sacrificing fun; rather, it means aligning our recreational habits with the health of the planet. Here are eight actionable ways to cultivate an eco-friendly summer.
1. Re-evaluate Your Cooling Habits. Air conditioning accounts for a significant portion of household energy consumption during the summer months. To reduce your footprint, set your thermostat to 78°F (25°C) when you are home and higher when you are away. Utilize ceiling fans to create a wind-chill effect, and close blinds during the hottest parts of the day to block out solar heat.
2. Choose Reef-Safe, Non-Toxic Sunscreen. When cooling off in oceans, lakes, or rivers, what is on your skin washes directly into the water. Traditional sunscreens often contain chemicals like oxybenzone and octinoxate, which bleach coral reefs and disrupt aquatic life. Look for physical, mineral-based sunscreens that utilize non-nano zinc oxide or titanium dioxide.
3. Revamp the Backyard Barbecue. Traditional summer cookouts generate massive amounts of waste. Swap out single-use plastic plates, cups, and utensils for reusable or compostable alternatives. Additionally, consider shifting the menu; reducing red meat consumption by introducing more grilled veggie skewers significantly lowers the carbon and water footprint of your meal.
4. Embrace the "Staycation" and Slow Travel Tourism accounts for roughly 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, heavily driven by aviation. This summer, explore the rich biodiversity and state parks right in Ohio. Choosing local road trips, camping, or train travel drastically minimizes travel-related emissions while supporting local conservation economies.
5. Smart Water Conservation Summertime water usage spikes due to lawn irrigation and swimming pools. Water your garden in the early morning or late evening to minimize evaporation. Better yet, transition portions of your lawn to native, drought-resistant plants that require far less supplemental watering and provide vital habitats for local pollinators.
6. Fight Food Waste with Composting Summer is prime time for fresh produce—and food waste. Watermelon rinds, corn husks, and fruit scraps thrown into standard trash bins end up in landfills, where they decompose anaerobically and produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas. Commit to composting your organic waste this season to enrich local soils instead.
7. Ditch Single-Use Beverage Plastics. Hydration is key in the summer heat, leading to a surge in plastic water bottle and aluminum can consumption. Invest in a high-quality, insulated reusable water bottle. If you are hosting an event, set up a large water dispenser infused with fresh fruit rather than buying individual plastic bottles.
8. Support Eco-Conscious Outdooring. When hiking, camping, or visiting parks, strictly adhere to the "Leave No Trace" principles. Pack out everything you pack in, stay on designated trails to prevent soil erosion, and respect local wildlife by keeping a safe distance.