It’s important to realise we are on a mission nowadays. What’s the mission? It’s saving our planet. Of course, it’s an extremely complex issue and it’s impossible to find one quick and definitive solution.
That doesn’t mean we shouldn’t try. Climate change, pollution, depleting resources are all very real problems that grow stronger every single day.
So how do we stop that? Can we even do it? What can an ordinary person do, when the largest corporations only care about their profits, not the environment? While these are all valid questions, we cannot just deflect and avoid responsibility. Even if we cannot make a significant change on a global level, there are still sustainable and environmentally friendly practices we can implement in our everyday lives. Every little helps.
1. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Truly words to live by. Let’s break it down. Reduce your consumption – make more conscious choices. Support businesses that operate according to responsible eco-friendly practices. Buy less and invest in durable and long-lasting products. Reuse as much as possible. The reality is, contrary to what the biggest companies would have you believe, you don’t actually new phone every year.
Buy reusable products bags, water bottles, containers, even a quick dry bath mat can be a sustainable choice. Thankfully, the market has a lot to offer in this regard. The last point – recycle. Recycling is crucial in reducing the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. Support recycling initiatives and sort your waste properly. We all need to do our part.
2. Embrace Sustainable Energy
Now, we know perfectly well, it can be a very costly and logistically difficult operation. Nevertheless, we should at least consider it. Solar panels or some other renewable energy projects are viable options. More and more so, especially in terms of availability and affordability.
But we don’t have to go big or go home. Solar energy might still be out of your reach at the moment – that’s fine. Doing as little as switching to LED light bulbs or investing in some more energy-efficient appliances will do just fine.
You can also do something that doesn’t cost a thing – like turning your lights off when you leave the room, or your electronics when you’re not using them anymore. Practices as just as important as investments here. There’s more to sustainability than marketing and consumerism. We have to look past it. It’s a lifestyle.
3. Eco-Friendly Transportation
Yes, transportation is also one of the major contributors to air pollution and carbon emissions. Again, we’re not saying you need to sell your car now or buy an electric one – especially since a lot of evidence seems to be pointing to the fact they may not be as environmentally friendly as initially believed. Yes, fossil fuel-powered cars are not the “green” mode of transportation we so desperately need. But it doesn’t mean we have to do something extreme. Try driving less. Walk when you can. Ride a bike. The planet – and your body – will both be grateful.
4. Sustainable Consumption
Make. Informed. Choices. Be a conscious consumer. If we all had a more minimalistic approach and support sustainable and ethical products, it would make a world of difference. When you shop, look for green certifications – especially when it comes to materials. Did you know that cotton is one of the most harmful fabrics? A huge amount of pesticides goes into growing as well as manufacturing. Organic cotton is a great alternative. Next time you’re shopping for towels or looking for an absorbent bath mat make sure it’s 100% organic.
Try also to buy local products. This way you can help reduce carbon emissions from transportation. There are plenty of companies that believe in sustainability, the problem is they can’t make it without your help. If we prioritise environment and quality over low price and quantity, we might just have a shot.
5. Better choices
Saving the planet requires collective action, but it all starts with a single person. A group of individuals heading towards the same goal – that’s how we can make a difference. These four steps can be a great start. We have all the tools we need to build a sustainable future.
