7 Smart Tips for a Biofriendly Summer

Well, it’s official. Summer is here! And let me tell you, the summer weather did not delay its arrival at all. With temperatures close to 100 degrees, we are feeling the summer heat. So, now that schools are out and families are getting ready for summer activities, I thought it would be a good time to go over some smart tips to help you have a biofriendly summer.

Image by Laure Wayaffe

It doesn’t matter if you are planning to travel this summer or simply stay close to home, there is something in here for everyone:

1 – Plant a summer garden: Now is the perfect time to plant some fresh fruits and vegetables. What tastes better on a hot day than a fresh salad and some cold, sliced fruit? (Well, okay ice cream tastes pretty good in hot weather, but that’s not the point.) By planting your own garden, you are giving yourself access to a summer filled with fresh, organic foods. Here are 111 Herbs, Vegetables, Edible Flowers & Fruit to Plant in Your Kitchen Garden (or yard).

2 – Get outside and take in some fresh air: One of the simplest ways to have a great summer is to get outside and enjoy it. Get yourself a little natural Vitamin D and Get a Breath of Fresh Air. I remember as a kid I couldn’t wait for summer to spend time at the beach, go camping, go rafting, go hiking, etc. The time I spent outdoors was always filled with fun, adventure, sun and fresh air.

Image by Sebastian Fritzon

3 – Remember to protect your skin: Speaking of sun, before you get outdoors, remember to protect your skin. But don’t use a lot of toxic chemicals and sprays to do so. A hat, sunglasses, a light shirt with long sleeves can go a long way to protecting your skin from the sun. If you’d rather opt for a sunscreen, be sure to check out The Best Sunscreens For 2011 first.

4 – Green up your camping trip: Summer months are a great time to go camping. The weather is nice, it gives you a chance to get up close and personal with nature and if you’re smart, a chance to unplug for a couple of days. (Something we all need to do now and again.) So, for those you who love to go camping, here are some tips that can help in Planning a Green Camping Trip.

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5 – Keep yourself hydrated: During the summer months we sometimes forget how much water our bodies really need. As you enjoy the great outdoors this summer, be smart. Don’t waste your money on plastic water bottles. The easiest way is to make a reusable water bottle. Fill it up before you go and then refill at any sink or drinking fountain you happen to encounter.

6 – Remember to keep your pets hydrated. It’s not only key to ensure you stay hydrated, but you need to care for your pets as well. Houses, yards, patios, dog runs, etc. can all get very hot during the summer months. Therefore it is key to ensure your pets have a place where they can stay cool and have access to fresh, clean water. Here are a few more Hot Weather Tips for your pets.

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7 – Cut down on energy, take advantage of the nice weather: During the summer months, one easy way to lower your energy usage is to open some windows and doors. Let the fresh air blow through to clean out your place. Open the blinds to let in natural light rather than using electricity. Program your thermostat no lower than 78 degrees F when you are there and 85 degrees F when you plan to be away. At night, cool your house down by opening those windows up again.

By following any or all of those smart tips you’ll be on your way. Don’t forget to check out these 50 Ways to Make Your Life More Environmentally-Friendly as well. I hope each of you has a safe, happy and biofriendly summer!

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