The statistics are scarily overwhelming and there is not one day we go without hearing about climate change, pollution, and extinction, amongst others. The fact of the matter is that we are destroying our planet and yet, in 2018, many are still left unaware, or unbothered.
We’re still very far behind as far as being eco-conscious is concerned, however small actions still amount to a significant change, and there are many easy, fuss-free ways you can make your routine more eco-friendly. Here are six you can start integrating into your life beginning today:
Invest in a stainless steel straw – Over 500 million plastic straws are used in the world every single day and they aren’t recyclable or decomposable. It’s very scary to come to think of it and an easy way you can make a change is by carrying around a metal straw wherever you go. Refuse plastic straws every time your order a drink and whip out your own environmentally-friendly one. Cleanup is also easy as you can always wash it off in the sink.
Cut down on disposable products – One-time use items are convenient, but the environmental drawback is severe. Assess your daily life and think about all the disposable items you utilise. This includes tissue paper, ziploc bags, takeout containers, plastic cutlery, disposable cameras, cotton pads, Q-tips, wooden chopsticks, elastic bands and shower caps. Reuse, learn to extend their lifespan, find more sustainable solutions, or just refuse them completely.
Carry recyclable bags around – An average plastic bag takes between 15 to 1,000 years to decompose and if not, it just sits in a landfill. It’s really not that difficult. Many recyclable bags nowadays fold up into convenient little squares or triangles and can be easily tossed into your handbag. They are cost effective, reusable, durable and there are even stores with shopping incentives you can score for using your own reusable bag. Take advantage!
Bring your own cutlery and water bottle – Again, this has the same sentiment as using metal straws and reusable bags. Every time you get a takeout, eat out or grab your daily cuppa, think about the amount of trash you are creating. Many economy rice stalls charge way cheaper if you use your own containers and cutlery. The same applies for beverages. We know Starbucks gives discounts to its customers for bringing their own bottles or mugs.
Buy products with minimal to no packaging – Be mindful when you shop and choose produce that are loose instead of being wrapped in plastic or contained in a box. The same applies for beauty products. Choose shampoo and soap bars instead of bottled products, and if you must, check the label to see if the packaging is made from recycled materials. We love The Hive Bulk Foods for zero-waste shopping.
Learn to reuse and thrift – Many jars and containers from foods or other items can be reused instead of going into the bin. Additionally, buying used goods means reducing your carbon footprint on our planet. You also get to save while doing so! Before you buy everything completely brand new, hit the thrift stores to hunt down exactly what you’re looking for. It doesn’t just end at clothes. It could be furniture, books and more.
