Living a green lifestyle is not just a fad, but something many Americans want to do for the long haul. A survey by YouGov reports that 27 percent of people in the country are Planet Protectors, the most environmentally conscious segment of society. Conversely, 19 percent of them are Green Rejectors, a group unconcerned about climate change and sustainability issues. Others come somewhere between the two.
Besides protecting the planet, green living contributes to individual and community health. In this article, we will look at some of the unexpected health benefits of green living.
Improved Air Quality
Air pollution poses a major threat to public health, increasing the risk of respiratory issues, heart disease and other serious conditions. According to the EPA, vulnerable populations are at an even higher risk. This segment includes older adults, expecting mothers, infants and people with pre-existing lung and heart diseases.
Green living helps limit air pollution and improves air quality, both indoors and outdoors. For example, eco-minded people opt for walking, biking or public transportation over driving alone, which reduces emissions from vehicles and curbs pollution in the community.
By supporting clean energy sources like solar and wind power, one can reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Minimizing energy consumption through simple habits like turning down the thermostat a couple of degrees and using energy-efficient appliances can lower pollution levels.
Reduced Exposure to Toxins
As a green-minded homeowner, you will prefer organic products over those laced with harmful chemicals. WebMD lists toxins inside your home that can make you sick. These include asbestos, lead, cleaning chemicals, tobacco smoke, combustion gases and radon. Besides these well-known toxins, your water supplies may be polluted with harmful chemicals.
PFAS (Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) contamination is a major concern across the nation, with USGS estimates stating that 45 percent of water has it. These are the same “forever chemicals” found in the firefighting foam that’s in the news for causing cancer among firefighters. The AFFF lawsuit claims filed by the affected firefighters and veterans highlight the gravity of the situation.
Avoiding these toxins in household products, personal care items and drinking water sets you up for a conscious lifestyle. Moreover, minimizing exposure lowers the risk of allergies, respiratory issues and cancer.
Better Mental Health
According to Heart.org, studies have shown that spending time in nature can minimize stress and anxiety. While these seem like mental health benefits, eliminating these silent killers can improve overall well-being. Not to mention, nature boosts your mood and gives you a much-needed dose of happiness.
Green living encourages incorporating nature into everyday life through activities like hiking, gardening and spending time in green spaces. Regular exposure to nature can have a direct restorative effect on cognition. Additionally, physical activity and social interactions happen more in green spaces.
For those who feel isolated and depressed, meeting with like-minded people can give you a new lease on life. You feel fresh and stimulated, doing things you love and mingling with people who share your views.
Financial Resilience
Adopting a green lifestyle can bolster your financial savings, which can reduce your financial stress. For example, you can save by reducing energy consumption, growing your own food and using reusable products.
Conserving energy reduces utility bills and lowers overall household expenses. The “reduce, reuse, recycle” mindset also limits waste and unnecessary spending. By growing your food, you save money and get fresh and organic homegrown food. Besides cutting grocery bills, it reduces the risk of sickness and consequent medical bills.
Embracing a green lifestyle offers numerous benefits for both individual and community health. The best part is that embracing this lifestyle is easy to get started and doesn’t cost you anything. Start with small changes today and do your bit for the environment and your well-being.
Feature image: Fishmac ; image 1: John Tyler Mounce