By Jovana Rodolakis
Wondering how to lead a life that’s more in harmony with our planet? You’re not alone. Many of us are striving to limit our impact on Earth’s natural resources while making wise choices in our day-to-day lives.
According to the World Wildlife Fund, sustainable living is the practice of making decisions that minimize our negative impact on the Earth.
The Big Picture
It may seem overwhelming to think about reducing your ecological footprint when it seems like not everyone is contributing to the cause. However, when you dissect it into actionable items, you discover that you have more agency than you imagined.
So let’s dive in and explore an array of straightforward tips to help you adopt a more eco-friendly lifestyle. You might already be practicing some of these eco-hacks, which is commendable. Hopefully, this guide will offer you new avenues to further your commitment to sustainability.
A Greener Household
- Opt for energy-efficient LED or CFL bulbs over traditional incandescent ones.
- Double up on layers rather than cranking up the thermostat.
- Utilize natural daylight before flipping the switch.
- Make it a habit to turn off lights when exiting a room.
- Refuse unsolicited mail to minimize paper waste.
- Air-dry your laundry on a clothesline or rack.
- Consider washing clothes by hand if you only have a small load.
- Implement a timed shower routine or invest in a shower clock.
- Cultivate your own herbs and veggies in pots or garden beds.
- Unplug electronic devices overnight, including your Wi-Fi router.
- Install a low-flow showerhead.
- Use compostable fertilizers for your garden.
- Choose recycled, plastic-free toilet paper.
Eco-Smart Commuting
- Opt for a pre-owned bike for local commutes.
- Favor stairs over elevators for added fitness benefits.
- Utilize public transport whenever possible.
- Coordinate carpools for daily commuting and special events.
- Make use of bike-sharing services, if available.
- Think about living without a car altogether.
- If you’re purchasing a vehicle, electric is the way to go.
Conscious Shopping Habits
- Bring reusable bags for grocery shopping.
- Support local farmers by buying in bulk.
- Opt for paper packaging over plastic whenever possible.
- Say no to single-use water bottles.
- Visit package-free shops and bring your own containers.
- Prefer bakeries that allow you to use your own bags or containers.
- Choose reusable drink containers over disposable ones.
Slow Fashion Choices
- Consider thrift shopping.
- Embrace minimalist wardrobe planning.
- Prioritize quality over quantity to ensure longevity.
- Support brands that advocate for ethical and sustainable practices.
More Sustainable Choices
- Go digital with correspondence and document storage.
- Turn off your computer and unplug your charger when they’re not in use.
- Use cloth diapers and sustainable baby products.
- Prepare homemade cleaners and beauty products.
- Give the gift of experiences rather than material items.
For more inspiration, Earth Easy provides in-depth guides on how to transition into a sustainable lifestyle.
By taking even some of these steps, you’re making a positive impact on the planet. Change starts with individual actions, and every action counts.
If you have any questions or need more information on how to get started with a sustainable lifestyle, feel free to contact me today.