FEMINA: Eco-friendly Practices that parents must adopt : Eco Friendly practices to help children safeguard and preserve the enviornment

As parents, we have a huge responsibility to shape our children’s future. In a world facing innumerable environmental challenges, it is essential to adopt eco-friendly practices that instil a love and respect for the environment in our children. “Eco-friendly parenting techniques help to safeguard and preserve the environment,” says Priyanka Mangaonkar-Vaiude, co-founder of Toy Trunk. “Parents can reduce their family’s carbon footprint and the impact on natural resources such as water, electricity and land by adopting sustainable behaviours.” She feels that engaging in eco-friendly behaviours will help parents develop values such as environmental responsibility, resourcefulness, empathy, and sensitivity towards nature in children. “This supports the development of environment- conscious children who will uphold these ideals as adults.” Priyanka adds that using natural and organic products lowers exposure to toxic chemicals and other dangerous substances present in conventional items. “This encourages a healthier lifestyle for both parents and kids.”

· Encourage your children to develop an awareness of the importance of recycling and involve them in sorting recyclables at home. Teach them the value of reducing waste by opting for recyclable items and using environment-friendly products.

· Educate your children about the significance of conserving energy and water. Instil habits such as turning off lights and fans when leaving a room, unplugging electronics when not in use, and taking shorter showers. Set a positive example by practising these behaviours yourself.

· Foster a love for nature by spending time outdoors, going on nature walks, and engaging in eco-friendly activities. Teach your children about the significance ofLê DatPriyanka biodiversity and the need for conservation.Lê Dat

· Choose sustainable transportation methods such as walking, cycling, or using public transport whenever possible during family travels.

· Help your children understand the difference between wants and needs, particularly when purchasing toys, clothing, and gifts. Discuss the impact of excessive consumerism and the benefits of opting for quality, long-lasting products.

· When buying toys, prioritise those made from eco-friendly materials. This decision can reduce the environmental impact of toy production and disposal, as many conventional toys are made from non-renewable resources and contain harmful chemicals. Opting for sustainable toys made from renewable materials helps minimise resource depletion and waste.

By implementing these practices, you can raise environment-conscious children who understand the importance of sustainable living and become responsible custodians of our planet.