We work hard to be an eco-friendly hotel, and we know that you care about doing your part for the environment too. With a brand new year ahead, we listed 10 ways you can resolve to make less of an impact on the environment!
1. Buy Second-Hand
Buying from vintage and thrift shops does not mean you’re getting a bad deal. Just ask the staff at Avalon Exchange! They help people find awesome outfits and jewelry that are just their style for less. Plus, there’s something fun about upcycling a bargain. Want to learn how? Check out a class at Perennial!
2. Buy a Reusable Water Bottle
Instead of making sure your water bottles get recycled, eliminate the need for them altogether! Having a re-fillable water bottle means you save money and the environment.
3. #MeatlessMonday-or any other day
Cutting meat out of your diet for one day a week can do way more than you think. 50WaysToHelp.com explains, “It requires 2,500 gallons of water to produce one pound of beef… For each hamburger that originated from animals raised on rainforest land, approximately 55 square feet of forest have been destroyed.” Talk about an easy way to help the environment!
4. Buy Local
Buying from local places supports your local economy and helps reduce transportation costs. We suggest hitting up the Midtown Farmer’s Market for your produce.
5. Shower with your partner
This is by far the steamiest suggestion we have. You’ll save water by reducing total time the water is running, get ready sooner since you aren’t waiting for your turn in the bathroom and spend some quality time with your partner. Sounds like a win-win-win to us!
6. Stop receiving junk mail
No one likes receiving mail they don’t want or need, plus it’s a waste of paper and energy to recycle it (if you even take the time to recycle it!). Instead, sign up for something like CatalogChoice, which takes you off mailing lists so you only get the mail you want.
7. Reduce clutter in your home
Not only will getting rid of that old dining room set or pile of clothes help you feel better, you are supporting the upcycle and re-use, which can reduce overall waste. Don’t just add to the landfill. Remember, one man’s trash is another man’s treasure!
8. Wash full loads in cold or warm
Think twice before running that half-load of socks and undies. By running only full loads of laundry, you reduce the total amounts of laundry, which reduces the amount of water and energy used. For an added bonus, save energy by running your washer on cold or warm instead of hot.
9. Eat at eco-friendly restaurants
The Green Dining Alliance has a long list of eco-friendly restaurants in St. Louis. Plus, Eclipse Restaurant boasts a long list of eco-friendly practices such as composting, property-wide recycling (with a glass crusher!), donating leftover food and more.
10. Adjust your thermostat
You’ll hardly feel the difference putting your thermostat one degree higher in summer and one degree lower in winter, but it can make a big difference in your bill!