As you know, everyone needs to do what they can to live a more sustainable life; we often focus on reducing waste, saving energy and supporting environmentally friendly products. All of these are great choices, no doubt, but sometimes it’s the little habits that make the difference. Not only that, but sometimes those habits that are good for you can make a huge difference.
For example, have you considered that taking care of your eye health can also play an important role in environmental protection? Now, this may sound far-fetched, but think about it: When it comes to physical health, there are plenty of ways to incorporate it into helping the planet. Technically, it makes no difference to your eye health. So, here’s what you need to know!
Ditch contact lenses and glasses
Imagine waking up in the morning and being able to see everything clearly without the hassle of fumbling with glasses or dealing with contact lenses. But how does giving up these and having better eyesight actually help the planet? Well, think of it this way: having laser surgery on your eyes reduces your waste. For example, contact lenses are made of plastic (and cannot be recycled), and you usually need new ones every month. Additionally, these lenses are packaged in plastic and typically mailed to you every month, increasing the carbon footprint of the shipping process. So by undergoing LASIK, you essentially reduce the need for these!
Choose natural foods for better eye health
Now, we’ve all heard that carrots are good for our eyes, but a diet rich in whole foods like spinach, kale, sweet potatoes, and berries can do wonders for your eyesight. Yes, carrots too! These foods are rich in vitamins and antioxidants that help maintain eye health.
As you know, natural foods are significantly better for the environment (especially when purchased and grown locally). Think about it: Processed foods often come with excessive packaging, require more energy to produce, and have a higher carbon footprint due to transportation. So simply changing your diet in the name of improving overall health can help the environment significantly!
Enjoy more outdoor activities
Now, this is definitely something you might want to consider! So, how about reducing screen usage? Blue light is bad for your eyes, plus consider the energy you save by not using devices, including your computer or TV. Seriously, time spent outdoors reduces the need for electricity for devices and lighting, often leading to other sustainable habits like walking, biking, or enjoying nature. These activities have the smallest carbon footprint compared to indoor entertainment that relies heavily on electronic devices.
Choose sustainable sunglasses
As you know, protecting your eyes from UV rays is crucial, and sunglasses are a must-have accessory. Okay, that’s obvious, but how can you make it eco-friendly? Well, when shopping for sunglasses, choose brands that offer sustainable options. Seriously, it’s that simple! Many companies now make sunglasses from recycled materials or biodegradable ingredients.