It’s nearly summer and you know what that means: time to head to the local lake or beach for some fun in the sand and sun. Here are a few tips to keeping your visit to the beach as environmentally friendly as possible.
Teenie Greenie Bikini
If you are a bikini-loving lady, look for a green bikini. Yes that’s correct – there are green bathing suits on the market that are not only stylish but environmentally friendly. Here are a few companies that make stylish and eco-friendly bikini options.
Green Beach Towels
Conventional cottons are filled with pesticides that can be transferred to your skin and to the environment. Old towels that have been washed dozens of times have been rid of these chemicals and are perfect for taking to the beach. If you don’t want to be caught with a raggedy old towel then consider purchasing a new eco-friendly towel. There are many great options in eco-friendly beach towels. Some of my favorites come from seaglass organics and Yala Designs. When looking for an eco-friendly towel, look for one made with organic fiber, recycled materials, or sustainable fibers.
Green Beach Toys for the Kids
What child doesn’t want to play in the sand? Look for environmentally friendly beach toys instead of the traditional PVC and plastic ones. GreenToys has a fun eco-friendly beach sand set, or you can make your own sand play set with old milk jugs. Simply make a pail by cutting the bottom off of an old milk jug. You can then use the top as a funnel. You can also use the bottom with the handle attached as a shovel. If you want to make a sifter, use a hole punch (or scissors) and poke holes in the bottom of the milk jug. Once you leave the beach you can recycle the jug parts.
Mind The Signage
If you go to a beach that warns for you to stay clear of coral reef areas or dunes, please heed these warnings. These areas are home to a plethora of different species and disrupting their environment can be costly for these organisms.
Don’t Litter
Always throw away your trash in a garbage or recycling bin. You don’t want your trash to be swept away into the ocean.
Eco-Friendly Sunscreen
When you’re at the beach you will be exposed to a lot of sun. Protecting your skin is very important, but it’s also important to choose an eco-friendly sunscreen. TropicalSeas makes a wonderful line of sunscreens and sun care products that are eco-friendly, biodegradable, and safe for reefs. Badger Sunscreen and California Baby are two of my other top sunscreen picks.
These are just a few basic tips for making your trip to the beach a little more eco-friendly. Do you have any tips to share for keeping your trip green?
About Tara
I am a wife and work-at-home mom of three. I am an avid blogger, social media manager, lover of food, and founder of WestHome Media. I love that I have found a way to stay at home with my children without giving up my profession. I am a green living advocate and love blogging about food, green living, and anything parenting! Check out my website at http://westhomemedia.com/.
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