Sustainability swaps: some basics
In an upcoming blog post I discuss my personal journey with curating a more sustainable lifestyle. I also share some of the changes I have made recently to align my life with this value. Here, however, I will share some basic sustainable swaps you can make if you’re new and interested.
First, I’d like to acknowledge that while it is important we work in our personal lives to be more sustainable the majority of the environmental impact comes from industry and large companies who need to be held accountable. Second, I’d like to acknowledge that sometimes choosing the more sustainable option is a privilege not everyone can afford to do and that is completely okay. It’s important to challenge the all or nothing thinking that sometimes creeps up on us, that if we can’t do everything sustainability than we shouldn’t do any. Every small act or purchase you shift with intention matters.
Learn the recycling rules for your neighbourhood and try your best to follow them
Use reusable or paper grocery bags
skip on the straws
switch to a reusable water bottle, coffee cup…
instead of plastic wrap try bees wax wraps
Opt for bar soap instead of plastic dispensers
try thrifting first when looking for new clothes, household items, toys, decorations…
if buying clothes new explore ethical brands instead of fast fashion
Shop for in season vegetables, even better if they’re local!
Try your hand at growing some vegetables or herbs
When giving gifts opt for experiences instead of things
If you use a plastic toothbrush try bamboo
If you use cotton pads they have reusable ones you can wash
Repair instead of replace where possible
This list is tiny compared to all the ways we can shift our lifestyle to be more sustainable but its a start! If any ideas interest you, if you have questions, or if you have suggestions please contact me!
