We’ve all been told we need to live more sustainably. It’s a worrying truth that our planet is suffering due to our overconsumption and our wasteful nature. So, it’s important that we all take responsibility and do our bit to ensure the future of the planet as well as the future of our children.
Believe it or not, sustainable living is incredibly easy and adaptable. So, where to start? Here we’ll explore how we can live a little more sustainably in 2020.
Choose sustainable brands
As far as the planet is concerned, reducing our consumption and our overuse of natural resources is essential. However, when you do need to purchase something new, consider choosing a sustainable brand rather than one with a questionable ethical background. Ethical brands should focus on reducing waste with their products. These businesses have a strong ethos when it comes to production and manufacturing – see these recycled sunglasses by Szade, for example. You may also find that sustainably produced items last much longer than their single-use plastic or fast fashion counterparts. So, you could help save the planet and your bank balance at the same time.
Eat less meat
It’s an emotionally driven topic that divides friends and family, whilst creating all kinds of arguments online. However, the facts are clear. Reducing our consumption of meat is good for the planet. Deforestation and the meat industry go hand in hand, with millions of acres of forest being destroyed to make way for farmland and crops used to feed animals destined for our plates.
By cutting back on our meat consumption we’re reducing demand, which means fewer resources are being plundered and it’s ethically and morally sound too. It’s easy to cut out meat a couple of days of the week! Give it a try! We love swapping our weekend breakfasts from a cooked brekkie to smoothie bowls!
Don’t waste food
Millions of tonnes of food waste is thrown away each year. However, you can do your bit by only buying what you need and keeping on top of what’s in your cupboard and fridge. Don’t throw away those leftovers! Consider using them for lunch the next day, freezing them for later in the week or adding them to your compost heap!
Drive less
We’re all familiar with the impact of greenhouse gases and CO2 emissions. However, if driving to work and school is your only option, don’t worry. Consider ditching the car at the weekends and riding public transport or getting the whole family out on their bicycles! Not only will the environment benefit but your heart and your mind will love you for it!
And finally, look after your clothes
Millions of tonnes of textile waste head to landfill each year and a huge amount of energy and water is needlessly used to produce fast fashion items that are then shipped across the world. Instead of buying more items, consider learning how to look after your clothes instead. If you do need to purchase something new, consider pieces that can be utilised in more than one outfit and never purchase anything you only intend to wear once!
