The current circumstances that we are living through are strange and we have all had to change the way we live almost overnight. One of the main rules that have been put in place for all of us, is to wear the right protection when going out. This is to ensure our own safety, as it protects us from contracting the virus, and if you are unknowingly carrying covid-19, it will also protect other people at risk.
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Unfortunately, most of the PPE items we use will have a damaging effect on the environment, so today, we are going to explore the environmentally friendly ways to protect yourself from covid-19.
Organic Hand Sanitizers
Hand sanitizer is a fast and efficient way to clean your hands after entering a public place. Using a hand sanitizer that is certified as organic will kill a large proportion of germs and protect you from covid-19. It does not contain harmful chemicals and is alcohol free, so it will not dry out your hands. Organic hand sanitizer is also biodegradable, which makes it environmentally friendly.
Reusable Facemasks
Wearing a facemask has been proven to reduce the spread of the virus alongside social distancing. If you choose to wear one out in public, you should consider a reusable and washable 3ply face mask, rather than a disposable one. This will reduce the amount of waste you will produce. They are also better value for money and stylish.
Plexiglass Shields
Creating physical barriers between people is another good way to reduce the spread of coronavirus without damaging the environment. Sneeze guard barriers can remain in place, as long as they are wiped down properly (ideally with eco-friendly disinfectant). These plexiglass shields are also easy to install and improve communication between individuals, while reducing the spread of disease.
Refillable Soaps
Thoroughly washing our hands with soap and water for at least 30 seconds is one of the best ways to reduce the spread of coronavirus. Unfortunately, hand soaps usually come in a single-use plastic container, which will increase plastic pollution. To reduce your plastic waste, you should consider eco-friendly hand soap refills or choose brands that have a plastic-free or recycled material packaging.
Look After Yourself
Physical shields and keeping our hands clean are all well and good, but if you really want to protect yourself from covid-19, you should be looking after yourself. This includes eating a vegetable-rich diet, getting physical for at least 30 minutes every day, getting the right amount of sleep and taking vitamin and mineral supplements. All have been proven to boost the immune system, which will protect you.
It is important to remember that just because our health is at risk, does not mean we should disregard the environmental crisis we are facing. Doing what we can to protect ourselves in an eco-friendly way will benefit us and protect us from the spread, while doing our best to take care of the planet that we call home.
