Jenna Wolf of The Lotus Room

For 12th & Broad

We all have a responsibility to leave this world better than the way we found it.

While it remains true that the most dramatic changes will need to take place on corporate and governmental scales, there are a number of ways the average person can make his or her daily routine more eco-friendly, from actions as simple as carpooling, to as unexpected as eating less red meat.

Here are 10 simple acts, when done collectively as a community reduce waste, the emission of greenhouse gases, and protect our beautiful planet:

1. Meatless Monday

It cannot be denied that farming has a huge impact on the warming of our globe. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) agriculture is responsible for 18 percent of the total release of greenhouse gases world-wide. Cows in particular release 150-250 pounds of methane gas per year, from both chewing and eliminating their food. By consciously consuming less of their meat (even one day a week), together we can, over time, lessen the demand for breeding and reduce our collective footprint.

2. Compost your organic waste

According to studies done by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), organic wastes such as food, paper, and yard materials make up nearly half of our yearly landfill. As organic material deteriorates within landfills it releases methane gas (a potent greenhouse gas). Composting at home not only helps reduce this greenhouse emission but also aids in saving water, energy (from transportation), and money! Build you own compost pile at home or utilize one of Nashville’s local compost services like The Compost Company , Compost Nashville, or Eternal Returns.

3. Carpool

While Nashville continues to work out a better public transport system, try carpooling to work, dinner, or the store with your friends, family and colleagues in the meantime.

4. If it’s broke, fix it

When something breaks take the time to fix it, instead of throwing it out for a new one. New products require tons and tons of energy, water, and natural resources to create. Instead take a quick trip to Peabody Shoe Repair or your community tailor, and make use of that techie teen next door.

5. Get SmArt! with your art

Is your craft box getting out of control? Donate to SmArt!, a local Nashville non-profit dedicated to helping adults with disabilities and seniors enjoy happy, healthy, and safe lives. Located in Berry Hill, SmART! accepts your unwanted craft supplies, containers, paper, tech supplies, fabric, gift wrap and more.

6. Shower together

Save water and increase intimacy in your relationship…’nuff said.

7. Host a clothing swap

Though textiles make up only about 10% of annual landfill the reality is, they never actually break down into the earth. Instead of heading to the mall for some fresh threads, try hosting a clothing exchange with your peeps instead! Make sure to invite your stylish friends. Here's Oprah with the gist.

8. Recycle your home food delivery packaging

Can I get an amen for this whole food delivery situation! While your daily food waste might be reduced, the question now is: what does one do with all those cute little baggies they come in? Thankfully, Blue Apron and others are working on a plan to remedy this.

9. Catch the rain

Using rainwater is an innovative way to reuse that precious H2O than literally anyone can do. Simply pick up a rain barrel for $75 or less with Metro Nashville’s Rain Barrel Program or Cumberland River Compact and let Mother Nature do the rest. Nashville residents can purchase a subsidized rain barrel. Use the water for your lawn or garden and to clean your outdoor furniture.

10. Go-Green your home

Nashville’s Go-Green Home Services provides residential energy solutions to maximize your home’s health. Schedule a home energy assessment with them to see where you can make simple and affordable improvements.

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Jenna Wolf is a licensed massage therapist, yoga instructor, reiki master, ayurvedic practitioner, Belmont grad and owner of Nashville’s leading healing studio, The Lotus Room. A native Southern Californian, Jenna is inspired by nature and the art of ancient living through the practice of yoga and ayurveda. She believes in the power of positive thinking, the freedom of artistic expression and is a forever advocate of peace and love. For more information on massage, yoga, ayurveda and upcoming workshops, visit thelotusroomnashville.com. Like The Lotus Room on Facebook and follow Jenna’s personal journey into living The Good Life on Instagram @jennawolf.