You might expect to see apps all about recycling and composting in an article like this. Instead of that, we put together a list of lifestyle apps that will help you day to day and help the environment in the process.
Meal Planning Apps
Meal planning can help the environment. How? First, they reduce the trips you have to make to the store. That lowers carbon emissions. Second, they ensure that there’s less waste. They make the shopping list for you so you buy exactly what you need.
Meal planning apps, like Pepperplate, organize your recipes and make your grocery list. This can make you a more efficient shopper. Most of being environmentally friendly is increasing efficiency.
Mapping
You likely already use some sort of map on your smartphone, but there are uses for those maps that you may not have considered. For example, they can give you walking directions. If you want to get somewhere that isn’t very far, you can choose to use the walking directions instead of trying to drive. Also, a place may seem a little too far because you’ve only driven there in the past. You may realize that there are paths that can get you there faster than you might think if you walk.
Another benefit to mapping apps is that they can tell you the shortest and most efficient routes to get from point A to point B. They often show the current traffic conditions. The less time you spend with your engine running, the lower your carbon emissions.
Track energy usage
Power production is one of the leading causes of pollution. The more energy we need, the more fuel burns. If you can monitor and eliminate some of your energy usage, you can help the environment. Leafully is one app that can help.
This app monitors your energy usage and gives you advice on how to reduce your energy usage or where you could possibly use green energy.
E-readers
Do you still get print editions of your favorite magazines or books even though you have a smartphone and/or tablet? Make sure you’re making the most of your electronic devices by using them to reduce your use of paper. Not only is excessive use of paper a waste of trees, there’s also the carbon emitted from cutting down the trees and making them into paper. Then you have the shipping of the actual reading material. Wouldn’t it just be easier to download it?
Recycle
We had to list at least one recycling app. iRecycle helps you find locations where you can recycle and gives you tips on how to recycle. You likely have a service like ours pick up most of your recyclables, but there are items, like e-waste, that require special treatment. E-waste often can’t be accepted at landfills so throwing it away isn’t even an option. This app can help you find the right place to send your old electronics.
Being more efficient is eco-friendly. Any app that helps you drive less or consume less is eco-friendly. Helping the environment doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little planning, we can all be more green.
