April is Earth month, with the hot topic… How do we live a more sustainable and eco-conscious lifestyle? This may seem like something that requires way too much time and effort for your already incredibly busy life, but I have a few easy and affordable solutions that can make a BIG difference. If we continue thinking our small actions can’t make a difference, then we wouldn’t be able to change anything. Don’t worry, you don’t need to give up your luxuries. You are simply more aware of your impact on the environment and are making more conscious decisions in your everyday life, putting you on the path toward / leading you to a healthier and more environmentally friendly lifestyle (one sentence instead of two).
1. Purchase a reusable water bottle
Now this may seem like a no-brainer, but I know of so many people who buy packs and packs of disposable water bottles. Purchasing a reusable water bottle is an easy solution to eliminating unnecessary waste while saving money! My boyfriend and I both use stainless steel reusable water bottles, like this one Klean Kanteen Stainless Steel Water Bottle
* Make sure to stay clear of plastic water bottles that may contain BPA.
2. Switch to reusable produce bags
I’ve always felt like plastic produce bags are unnecessary. Yes, I would recycle them after, but I still felt like they were just wasteful. I did a little research online and found some reusable produce bags that I love. Purifyyou Premium Produce bags Purifyou Reusable Mesh Bags
3. Avoid “fast fashion.” Opt for second-hand and/or support local makers and responsible retailers.
This can be a tough one for a lot of people, including myself! We have tons of “fast fashion” options that are easily accessible, trendy and affordable. While I have always been into fashion and shopping (I went to FIDM – Fashion Institute of Design & Merchandising), I have a limited budget when it comes to clothing. Recently, I have been buying everyday essential pieces and staying away from “on trend” wear-it-once, maybe twice, and never-wear-it-again clothing. I have also been focusing on quality over quantity and learning more about the manufacturing practices of the companies I purchase from. Still, many eco-conscious lines can be pricey and out of our budgets. Second-hand or thrift shopping has become one of my favorite ways to shop. With websites like ThreadUp or stores like Plato’s Closet and Buffalo Exchange, you can find great pieces, including designer! I just found a brand-new Vince sweater for $6.00 and a J. Crew Sweater for $6 at our local Goodwill! I love H&M’s Conscious Collection, which offers eco- conscious clothing at a surprisingly affordable price. Regardless, even if you commit to 30% of your shopping to be second-hand or from a sustainable brand, you’re making a difference!
4. Go paperless
With everything digital, it is so easy, and not to mention convenient, to have everything sent electronically. Set your bills to be paperless and opt for email receipts, if available, when you are out shopping. Hate being overloaded with ads/ marketing emails? Create a separate email address for your receipts, or just unsubscribe.
5. Eat less meat
Starting small, like with a Meatless Monday, is a great way to lessen your meat consumption. With population growth and the increasing demand of meat, the meat industry remains a main contributor of pollution. Also, the amount of water needed for livestock farming is outstandingly greater than water needed to grow vegetables. Lessening meat in your diet can also benefit your health. Processed meat has been shown to increase your risk of cancer and has also been liked to cardiovascular disease. I have cut my meat intake to about 2-3 times a week and have increased my amounts of leafy greens and other vegetables. I personally have felt an increase in my energy and I feel great!
If we all commit to making a few minimal changes, we can make a difference for ourselves and the world. These 5 suggestions are the start of living a more sustainable and eco-conscious lifestyle.
– Aysha
Disclosure: This article contains affiliate links, meaning, at no additional cost to you, I will earn a small commission if you click through and make a purchase.
