{"id":37517,"date":"2021-06-21T09:03:00","date_gmt":"2021-06-21T16:03:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/mygreenlab.org\/?p=37517"},"modified":"2025-08-04T17:38:00","modified_gmt":"2025-08-05T00:38:00","slug":"10-tips-for-a-more-sustainable-summer","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/mygreenlab.org\/es\/the-beaker-blog\/10-tips-for-a-more-sustainable-summer\/","title":{"rendered":"10 Tips for a More Sustainable Summer"},"content":{"rendered":"\n \n \n

The recent summer solstice officially marked the first day of summer and with it the promise of hot weather ahead. As you prepare for longer days and warmer nights, there are many ways to reduce your environmental impact, whether in your personal life or at work in the lab.<\/p>\n

We\u2019ve compiled two lists below to help you have a more sustainable summer. Use these tips at home and in the lab!<\/p>\n

At Home: Summer Sustainability Tips<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n

1.\u00a0Carry a\u00a0reusable water bottle<\/strong>\u00a0to avoid plastic waste.\u00a0Planning a summer trip to the coast?\u00a0Single use plastic is a huge contributor to ocean pollution with 8 million metric tons of plastic entering our oceans every year. Reduce your usage by refilling a reusable water bottle to keep you hydrated all summer long.<\/p>\n

2.\u00a0Eat locally<\/strong>. Not only are farmers markets a great resource for shopping and eating locally grown fruits and veggies, but they\u2019re also a fun summertime activity!<\/p>\n

3. Consider\u00a0walking instead of driving<\/strong>. The weather is warmer and the flowers are in bloom – if you have the option to walk instead of drive – take it!<\/p>\n

4.\u00a0Use the shade to keep cool<\/strong>. Save energy and buffer the sun\u2019s heat with blinds, heavy curtains, and shade from trees before switching on the AC. When you do switch on the air, set the thermostat up a couple degrees higher than usual – this will slow the steam of heat flowing into your home while helping your AC work more efficiently.<\/p>\n

5. In the spirit of the\u00a0International Freezer Challenge<\/a>,\u00a0clean up your freezer and refrigerator<\/strong>\u00a0at home. To increase the energy efficiency of your fridge by allowing air to circulate better, clean out food that has gone bad or plan to use food that you may be stockpiling. That forgotten pack of frozen strawberries is sure to make a refreshing smoothie!<\/p>\n

In the Lab: Summer Sustainability Tips<\/span><\/strong><\/h3>\n

1. As temperatures and humidity are higher in the summer, your lab\u2019s HVAC system is already working overtime. To help the system cope with the rising temperatures, be sure to\u00a0close your water baths and<\/strong>\u00a0autoclaves<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0– when they\u2019re open, they release additional heat and humidity into the building.<\/p>\n

2.\u00a0Summer is great time to perform simple maintenance that your lab may need. Here are a few tips:<\/p>\n