The approach of spring is a great time to embark on a deep cleaning—of our homes, yes, but also of some of our less planet-friendly habits. How can we “green” our lives this spring? When it comes to our travel habits, our digital usage, or even the way we treat our old clothes…there are fun and easy ways to go clean in 2019.

[We’re also in favor of the classic version spring cleaning —digging deep into some of those hard to reach areas and making them sparkle. Check out our Monthly Flyer for sales on Earth-friendly products to safely banish dirt all over your home.]

Look into Ecotourism

Ecotourism destinations are vacation spots that promote environmental responsibility, with an emphasis on conservation, education, traveler responsibility, and active community participation.

Not only do these destinations offer eco-friendly accommodations, there are often rules for travelers to follow to help preserve the beautiful natural wonders for years to come. For example, resorts may require eco-friendly sunscreens that are biodegradable and safe for coral reef exploring. What’s more, many ecotourism destinations recycle tourism revenue into preserving and conserving natural environments.

Consider staying at an Earthship, a kind of passive solar house made of both natural and upcycled materials, such as earth-packed tires.

Search destinations around the world that are certified by The International Ecotourism Society, which promotes responsible travel to natural areas that conserve the environment and improve the well-being of local people.

Observe an Eco-Sabbath

Set aside one hour every week to get completely off the grid. Not only will you be removing any personal environmental impact for that hour, but you can also use that time for meditation or relaxation. Studies also show that staying away from your phone and other devices for even just a day can help you read people’s emotional cues more effectively and make you plain old happier. And who couldn’t use more of that? During your eco-Sabbath:

Don’t use any devices or machines
Don’t buy anything
Don’t switch on anything electric
Don’t answer your phone
Don’t use any resources

Recycle Textiles

When it’s time to spring clean your closet, a general rule of thumb is to donate clothes you haven’t worn in a year or more. (If you’re like us and obsessively watching the Netflix show Tidying Up with Marie Kondo, you’ll also want to determine if each article of clothing “sparks joy” before deciding whether it stays or goes.) Many communities offer drive-up donation bins or locations for textiles that are unusable, and nearly 100 percent of all used clothing and household textiles can be reused or recycled, according to the SMART (Secondary Materials and Recycled Textiles) Association. Forty-five percent of these textiles are reused as apparel; 30 percent are converted into industrial polishing or wiping cloths; and 20 percent are processed into fiber to be manufactured into new products.

Article courtesy of Delicious Living Magazine.