On April 22nd, we all get the opportunity to celebrate Earth Day and reflect on the beautiful makings of our Mother Earth. Are you always looking for some new ways in which you can reduce waste and be a more positive contributor to our environment? Well, lucky you! This month, we'll be sharing some simple eco friendly tips that can help you and your team pick up some new earth-friendly habits.

When incorporating eco-friendly solutions, some solutions do require an initial financial investment and some just simply require replacing a certain product and being aware of waste.

Here are eco friendly tips for a more Sustainable Practice:

Oral Hygiene Products

Eco-Friendly Toothbrushes: When ordering your bulk toothbrushes for your patient’s goody bags, opt for bamboo or recycled plastic toothbrushes instead of the traditional plastic. These are both eco-friendly alternatives that are biodegradable as well as gentle on the teeth and gums.
Natural Toothpaste: Many of our most popular brand toothpastes today contain harsh chemicals and microplastics. There are several natural toothpastes available today that are made with ingredients like baking soda, coconut oil, and essential oils.

Recycling

Recycle Your Dental Supply Packaging: Provide “recycle” waste bins at your practice and opt for compostable recyclable packaging. When your dental supply orders come in, put your boxes in the bin to be recycled.
Purchase recyclable paper: When you order paper for your printer, opt for purchasing recyclable paper to ensure that your waste can then be recycled into a new paper product.

Conservation

Conserve Water: Use this month to remind your patients, especially your pedo patients, to turn off the tap while brushing their teeth and use a cup of water to rinse instead of letting the water run continuously. This is a super simple habit and can save gallons of water each year.
Energy-Efficient Equipment: Upgrading to energy efficient equipment such as digital x-ray technology and LED lighting can reduce energy and greenhouse gas emissions.
- Investing in solar electric panels is another eco-friendly option to help conserve energy.
- Turn your computers off at the end of each day.
- Ensure all the lights are off at the end of each day.
- Install hot air dryers in the restrooms to replace the need for paper towels.
Long-term Benefits: Energy-efficient alternatives not only conserve energy but they can also reduce operational costs.

Supplies

Switch to green products: Consider replacing your disposable plastic suction tips with reusable stainless steel suction tips.
- Choose less harmful disinfectants to clean and sterilize your operatories and lab areas.
- Avoid aerosol cleaning supplies.

Reduce Your Carbon Footprint

Transportation: When your weather permits, consider walking, biking, or taking public transportation to work instead of driving. This will help reduce your carbon emissions and promote a healthier environment.

By following these eco friendly tips, you can help reduce your environmental impact and maintain a healthy smile. Together, we can make a difference!

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Eco Friendly Tips for a Sustainable Practice