Adapted and reimagined from an original article by Kathleen Doheny
For Creative Golden Years
Living well and living kindly — for ourselves and the planet — go hand in hand. And the everyday choices we make, from how we store our leftovers to where we buy our fruit, are powerful. Earth Day reminds us of that, but we can live with purpose and care all year long.
The good news? Many earth-friendly changes also support better health, especially as we age. Here are five simple areas to start.
1. Ditch the Plastic (for You and the Planet)
Plastic may be convenient, but it’s not harmless. Studies show that heated plastics — especially in microwaves — can release chemicals like BPA, which have been linked to health risks.
Try this instead:
- Switch to ceramic or glass containers for heating food
- Carry a reusable water bottle (they’re lighter and prettier than ever!)
- Use fabric tote bags instead of plastic for groceries
Reducing exposure to plastic may help lower the amount that ends up in our bodies — and in our oceans. It’s a win for your health and the earth.
2. Choose Organic (When You Can)
Organic food is grown without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, and may have higher nutrient levels depending on soil quality. Whether you shop organic often or occasionally, the key is washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly — always.
Bonus Tip: Visit your local farmers market or sign up for a farm box delivery. It supports sustainable farming and adds color to your meals.
3. Embrace Renewable Energy (and Cleaner Air)
Many of us grew up in homes with rotary phones and backyard clotheslines. Today, technology lets us go green in new ways — like installing solar panels or choosing utility plans that support renewable energy.
Cleaner energy = cleaner air = better health. Studies show that switching to renewables reduces pollution-related illnesses like asthma, stroke, and heart disease.
Easy First Step: Track your area’s air quality at airnow.gov. If pollution levels are high, opt for indoor exercise that day.
4. Be an Advocate with Actions
Even small actions matter — signing a petition, sending a letter to your local council, or sharing ideas with your community.
You can also:
- Join a local clean-up or garden group
- Host a “reduce plastic” week in your building
- Participate in Earth Day (or Earth Month!) events
Check out the global event map at earthday.org.
5. Mindful Living Is Sustainable Living
Caring for the planet often starts with slowing down and being mindful. Instead of rushing to replace a broken item, can it be fixed? Before tossing leftovers, could they be frozen or repurposed?
This mindful approach not only reduces waste — it helps reduce stress, save money, and spark creativity.
You Don’t Have to Do It All
It’s okay to start small. Every change is a step. And every small step sends a message to yourself: I care about my world, my health, and the generations to come.
Your Turn
Have you made an earth-friendly change that also improved your well-being?
Share your story in the comments — we’d love to hear how you’re blooming green.
This article was adapted from original reporting by Kathleen Doheny. It has been rewritten to reflect the voice and values of Creative Golden Years.