In honor of Earth Month – Earth Day is April 22 – there are many opportunities to embrace sustainability in Nashville and teach our children the importance of caring for our planet. We can instill eco-conscious values in our kids and lead by example in our daily lives. These are some practical tips for sustainable living that you can incorporate into your family routines.
Recycle
Nashville offers a curbside recycling program and there are convenience centers located around Middle Tennessee to make recycling easier. However, it is essential to learn the importance of sorting waste properly. Get your kids involved by setting up recycling bins at home and explaining which items can be recycled. Take them to local recycling centers or events where they can learn more about the process.
Embrace Thrift Shopping
You can find great deals at consignment sales and thrift shops in Nashville, offering a treasure trove of gently used clothing, toys, and household items. Take your kids on a thrifting adventure and show them how second-hand shopping saves money and reduces waste by giving items a second life.
Support Local Farmers Markets
Nashville is home to numerous farmers markets where you can find fresh, locally grown produce and artisanal goods. Take your kids to the market and involve them in selecting fruits and vegetables. Talk to them about the benefits of buying locally sourced food, such as reducing carbon emissions from transportation.
Get Your Hands Dirty
Gardening is a hands-on way to teach kids about the environment and where their food comes from. Whether you have a backyard garden or a container garden on the balcony, involve your kids in planting seeds, watering plants, and harvesting fruits and vegetables. It’s a fun and educational activity that promotes a connection to nature.
Choose Sustainable Transportation
While Nashville is not the most walkable city, there are eco-friendly alternatives to driving everywhere. Consider walking or biking, where possible, or using public transportation for short trips around the city. Nashville’s WeGo and Franklin Transit are two options to help reduce your carbon footprint.
Practice Water and Energy Conservation
With its hot summers, water and energy conservation is important in Nashville. Teach your kids the importance of turning off faucets while brushing teeth, taking shorter showers, turning off lights when leaving the room, and dressing appropriately for the season. Wearing a hoodie when it’s 90 degrees outside, then turning the AC temperature down isn’t an eco-friendly approach. Consider installing water-saving devices in your home, such as low-flow toilets and showerheads, and installing a smart thermostat. And run the washing machine and dishwasher at night during off-peak hours.
Attend an Earth Day Celebration
The Nashville Earth Day Celebration will be held April 20, 2024 from 11:00-5:00 at Centennial Park. Nashville Earth Day is a free event featuring engaging and educational activities from exhibitors and vendors, including local growers, makers, and sustainable small businesses.
By incorporating these sustainable practices into our daily lives, we can raise environmentally conscious kids who are empowered to make a positive impact on the world around them. Together, we can ensure a greener, cleaner future for Music City.
