With the consequential effects of centuries of carbon emitting behaviour becoming hard to ignore, the responsibility falls on all of us, both as business and consumer, to push for the eco-friendly alternative. Thus, I present to you, the FROGBOX eco-summer challenge: five easy ways to enjoy the spoils of a green summer!

1. Take alternate transportation – For some the thought of taking off for the day without their car seems inconceivable. However, the summer sunshine sets a beautiful path to leave your car at home. Many of you would be surprised by how convenient your local transportation is. Even better, break out your bike or walk to wherever your destination may be. It’s hard not to smile when you’re strutting down the street with the birds chirping and you are getting lathered with Vitamin D. If you are planning a small getaway, rather than driving or taking a plane, explore the option of a bus or train!

2. Eat your GREENS – When you are getting ready to fire up the barbie and feast on some delectable summer favorites, try purchasing local (and preferably organic) goods. When your salad has to take a three day road trip to get to your grocery store, emissions from transportation creates unnecessary amounts of harmful pollution. Check to see where your local farmer’s market is or you can sign up for a CSA.

3. If it was in a beaker in your science class, keep it off your skin! – When you go to lather up (and be sure that you do), go for a chemical-free sunscreen. Various sun blocks and sun screens can contain a chemical called oxybenzone. Mosquitos make good frog food, but lord knows they can put a damper when you’re taking in a summer evening. Chemical spray is not the only option; citronella candles, pure vanilla extract and even Vicks Vapo-Rub have been known to send bloodsuckers packing.

4. Home is where the green heart is – Resist the temptation to basque in the artificial breeze of air conditioning. Open windows, get an eco-friendly fan. Hang dry your clothes over using a machine dryer. Try to avoid having lights on all the time. During the day let the natural light pour in, and at night try lighting some candles (it doesn’t have to be “romantic”….unless you want it to be….do you?…no …ok… just checking). Candles provide a decent amount of light and can be incredibly zen after a long day at the office.

5. And of course – if you or any of your friends, family, lovers, coworkers, bus drivers, dentists, dog walkers, or anyone else are planning to move this summer – choose FROGBOX moving boxes that are reused over 400 times, drastically reducing the carbon footprint created by cardboard.

Challenge complete!