I’m just looking beside my desk here and I can see 4 aerosol cans containing various products. The cans proudly state “it’s OK to spray!”; due to the fact that there’s no chlorofluorocarbons (CFC’s) used as propellant. Gee, I feel much better now :)

But hang on, what is the propellant being used now? Hydrocarbon. According to the boffins, the type of hydrocarbons used in today’s aerosols have a negligible greenhouse effect. Negligible? How negligible? Does that mean it has some effect?

The other issue with aerosol spray cans is the can itself. Made from steel, they are recyclable, but have you ever tried melting steel in your kitchen? It does take an awful amount of energy to recycle products. Then there’s the plastic bits such as spray nozzles and caps.

There is an easier and cheaper alternative to buying most types of products that come in aerosol cans – buy a refillable spray bottle, aka atomizers, or misters. You’ll find most of the products you need can be bought in bulk at your local hardware store; or better still you can make earth-friendly insecticides and air fresheners yourself at home! You save money, while helping to protect the environment.

Have a green tip related to aerosols? Please share it with everyone by adding it below :).