On the road to a greener recovery: Four steps to keep ourselves and the planet healthy

A healthy world equals a healthy population. In fact, the World Health Organization claims that healthier environments could prevent disease by up to a quarter. Globally, 71% of citizens already agree that climate change is as serious as COVID-19. 

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This World Environmental Health Day, let’s work toward a healthier and greener recovery from the pandemic. With more people staying at home, now is the best time to adapt these practices for a more sustainable lifestyle.

Reduce, reuse, recycle

The growing need for protective equipment such as surgical masks and face shields has increased  waste and pollution. While protecting ourselves should be done at all times, we can still reduce the waste that goes to our landfills.

Cutting back on waste may seem hard for beginners, but it’s not impossible. There are plenty of groups on social media that can help you get started. Organizations like Green Antz, Green Haven, and The Plaf turn waste into construction materials. They also offer pick-ups or have designated drop-off points to make recycling from home easier.

Make your own compost

Composting goes hand-in-hand with managing non-biodegradable trash. As home cooking and healthy eating make a comeback, households produce more food waste which is already part of the world’s most abundant kind of waste.

Again, this may seem daunting for the inexperienced. Luckily, groups like Bokashi Pinoy simplify composting, even for urban residents who don’t have their own gardens. 

Switch to cycling

Cycling reduces traffic and carbon emissions, provides good exercise, and saves money on fuel and maintenance in the long run. A number of people have turned to cycling since public transportation became hard-hit by several lockdowns and strict health protocols. 

In response, more cities have become more bike-friendly for their residents—including EDSA highway! 

Check out activities like Allianz Ride Safe, which aims to promote a healthy and sustainable cycling culture among Filipinos!