Reusable water bottles are good for the planet, since you can use them over and over again. But reusable bottles need to be taken care of to help you stay healthy. If you don't wash your reusable bottles, the interior cavity can become a breeding ground for unhealthy bacteria. Make sure to fully dry the bottles after you wash them, too, otherwise, they can make you sick the next time you fill them up. Another idea: Place clean bottles back into the fridge. The cold air inhibits the growth of bacteria. And on a hot summer day, the bottle will keep your water chilled even longer.
Do Just One Thing for July 15, 2015
The hotel company Starwood and the advocacy organization UNICEF have partnered to create a program called Check Out for Children. When you check out of any Starwood property, you have the option to add $1 to your bill to support UNICEF. With just $1, the organization can help nine children gain access to clean drinking water for one month. According to UNICEF, over 1,400 children die from diseases caused by dirty water every day. If you aren't staying at a Starwood property, you can also donate your Starwood points online to UNICEF to support their good works.
Do Just One Thing for July 14, 2015
According to the Humane Society of the United States, millions of sharks are hunted ever year to be made into shark fin soup. The fins are removed while the sharks are still alive, and the sharks are thrown back into the water to die. If you're at a restaurant that serves shark fin soup, be sure to ask the owner or manager to remove the meal from the menu. But if you prefer to avoid confrontation, the organization has a free downloadable card that you can print and leave that expresses your concern and explains why sharks are threatened and need to be protected. Visit hsi.org to find the card.