We revere Mother Earth. She’s our favorite therapist, an infinite source of inspiration, the connector of all living things, and the eternal constant. Free + True was founded on the pure connection between all that is Mama Pacha and all that is woman. So in an effort to pay back all that she has given us, we’ve compiled a list of small ways to celebrate Earth Day. Together we can do our part to conserve and protect this one beautiful, precious planet.  

1. Choose clean beauty

From skincare and cosmetics to fragrance, the ever-expanding space that’s called clean beauty offers virtually endless options. Whether you choose to shop directly from your favorite brand, you have a favorite clean beauty retailer, or you strictly shop the green/natural section in your favorite big box store, choosing clean beauty is good for your skin, body, hair, and the planet. 

2. Compost your food

We like this one. Composting returns valuable nutrients back to the soil which helps maintain soil quality and fertility. This encourages healthy plant growth, AKA: happy plants that make for happy bees. To top it off, you’re recycling kitchen waste which reduces landfill waste and limits pollution. Talk about reduce, reuse, and recycle.

3. Grow your own food

This goes hand-in-hand with composting (see what we did there)? By growing your own garden, you’re deciding what goes on your plants and in your soil, which reduces the amount of harmful chemicals that pollute our environment. That’s a lot of power if you ask us. Not to mention all those healthy fruits and veggies are packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.

4. Shop vintage

Choosing to hunt for vintage clothes is basically a fun (and very stylish) way to recycle. Not only will it lead to a wardrobe chock full of unique pieces, but it keeps secondhand clothing out of the landfill and reduces the carbon emissions and water waste that result from manufacturing processes.

5. Walk or bike instead of drive

This one is pretty self-explanatory. Opting for alternative methods of transportation 
cuts down on pollution. Cutting down on pollution improves air quality. Better air quality 
makes it easier to breathe. But if you have to drive, consider carpooling.

6. Eat more plant based meals

Choosing a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains reduces overall water and land consumption, lowers pollution, slows deforestation, and reduces destruction of topsoil. And as you know from #3, plant-based eating offers a whole host of benefits for our health, too! 

7. Support your favorite environmental causes

This is your ticket right to the source of conservation. Environmental causes or charities are specifically created for and dedicated to the causes that positively impact life (whatever life it is). If you’re able, sending a little love their way can make a big difference.

8. Choose brands with sustainable practices

It all matters. From how a brand sources their ingredients and manufactures products to the practices used for shipping and employment, you name it. When you choose brands that are committed to leaving a smaller footprint, you’re holding the entire consumer chain to a higher standard. This is just another example of how one small decision can make an impact in a big way. 

9. Be mindful of your water usage

This is a great place to start if you’re new to the eco-friendly lifestyle. It really comes down to the little things: don’t leave the tap running if you’re not using it (ahem, like when you’re brushing your teeth), run the dishwasher when it’s all the way full and in off-peak hours, stock up on dirty clothes to create less loads of laundry, compete with your household for the shortest shower, and limit how often you water your lawn.

10. Spend more time outdoors 

This one is our favorite. Spending time out in the wild west (or east) stimulates your brain, helps get your creative juices flowing, and amps up your productivity. Not to mention you get a critical dose of Vitamin D (just remember to wear SPF). But the best part? It’s a direct reminder of the why behind these practices. Mother Nature is magnificent. If we want to keep her that way, we need to make some serious changes, and it starts with each and every one of us.