Skip to main content
Environment

How Homemakers Can Play Their Part in Saving the Environment

Through everyday choices on water, energy and waste, women who run the home can make a big difference to protecting the environment.

An Indian homemaker tending plants on her balcony
Photo: Photo: Trung Thanh / Unsplash

Homemakers can play an important role in protecting the environment through everyday decisions about saving water, conserving energy and managing waste. As the chief managers of the household, they can bring about a big change simply by adopting sustainable habits.

Here are some practical ways in which homemakers can contribute to saving the environment at their own level.

Waste management and recycling

Turn wet kitchen waste (vegetable peels and the like) into compost at home. Stop using single-use plastic such as polythene bags, and switch to cloth or jute bags.

Saving water

Avoid wasting water while washing dishes or doing the laundry. Don't leave the tap running, and use traditional methods to collect rainwater.

Saving energy

Make the most of natural light during the day. Use a pressure cooker when cooking and keep the gas flame on medium to save fuel.

Encourage greenery

Grow small plants and herbs such as tulsi (holy basil), mint and aloe vera on your balcony or in any free space. This also helps keep the home cooler.

Eco-friendly products

For household cleaning, use natural alternatives such as lemon, vinegar or baking soda instead of cleaners loaded with harsh chemicals.

Raising awareness in the next generation

Teach your children from an early age not to litter, to care for trees and plants, and to respect nature.

View all