There are numerous ways to make your home more sustainable but let’s start with the basics.
We need to think of the Earth as a living organism that breathes through our lungs. Recent years have been devastating for our planet and for us as a human race. However, it is unnecessary to say that every act of kindness towards mother Earth matters. Decrease your water usage — it matters. Forget about single-use plastic bags — it matters. Stop wasting food — it matters. In this line of thought, this time, we will share with you a few simple steps to reduce your impact on the environment without even leaving your home.
1. Use reusables
You sure hear this a lot — avoid plastic as much as you can. It hurts but data shows that more than 8 million tons of plastic are dumped in our oceans every year. At the same time, annually we produce nearly 300 million tonnes of plastic, 50% of which is for single-use purposes. What can you do? It is simple:
- Always carry a reusable shopping bag — there are so many great designs out there
- Give up bottled water and buy a stainless steel bottle to always stay hydrated
- Use beeswax wraps and stop using cling wrap for good
- Opt for a bamboo toothbrush to feel as cute as a panda while brushing your teeth
- Forget about the colorful but nasty plastic straws… and many more
2. Buy fresh food from the local market
Using a reusable bag is not enough if you fill it with products that have travelled hundreds or even thousands of miles to finally reach your home… and stomach. Therefore, opt for products from your local farmers market. Seasonal food is fresher, tastier, and more nutritious. At the same time, you help local farmers and the whole economy in your region.
3. Don’t throw food
Every once in a while, part of our food becomes trash. In the United States alone, food waste is estimated at between 30% and 40% of the food supply. We are surely part of a consumerist society and this can be seen even in our fridges. However, small changes in our shopping habits can make big differences. For instance, always check what you already have before going to the store and make a list of the things you need. Then, stick to it and do not forget to check the expiry dates of each of the products you buy. Some people even find it helpful to plan their meals for the whole week.
4. Don’t waste water and energy
Turn off the faucet while brushing your teeth and never leave unnecessary lights on. Buy energy-efficient appliances and smart power strips. Run the washing machine and the dishwasher only when you have a full load. Take shorter showers and unplug unused electronics. This list can go on, but a useful rule of thumb is: always ask yourself whether you are really using the respectful resource in the most efficient way you can. With time, this question becomes a habit that you do not even notice.
5. Be conscious when it comes to hygiene
Turning off the water when you brush your teeth is a great beginning, but you can do more. There are numerous options for plastic-free beauty and hygiene products. For example, buy toilet paper that is not wrapped in plastic. Ladies, use plastic-free feminine hygiene products. Gents, opt for a solid shave soap instead of canned shave cream.
We told you — these are some small steps that we can all commit to!
