Living a more sustainable life means using replenishable materials or resources for the production of goods. Having a sustainable lifestyle doesn’t mean giving up the things you want the most, but being mindful of your goods consumption and reducing waste.
Here are ten ideas to help you have a more sustainable life at home:
1. Reduce Home Energy Consumption
Reducing your household energy consumption is one of the best sustainable practices. This isn't only good for the environment, but it is also economical and saves you money! Here are a few simple ways to cut your electricity bill:
- Turn off lights and appliances when not in use
- Install energy-efficient light bulbs and appliances
- Instead of switching on lights during the day, open your blinds and enjoy the natural light
- Open windows in spring/summer to allow a natural breeze to cool your home instead of using an air conditioning system
- Lower your thermostat in the winter and wrap up warm to stay cozy
2. Buy Local Produce
Sure supermarkets are convenient and you can choose from a wide range of exotic fruits and vegetables from all over the world, any time of year, but think about how much fossil fuel energy it takes to transfer those items to the supermarket shelves. Eating locally grown produce not only reduces carbon emissions but it’s also a great way to support your local community.
3. Eat Seasonal Produce
Not only do you get fresher food but you know that it hasn’t been chemically forced to grow, nor has it been sitting in a warehouse! It’s also a great way to offer even more support to local farmers and producers.
4. Grow your Own
Organic fruit and vegetables can be a little pricey so avoid overspending by growing your own. There are loads of easy to grow vegetables that would give you a steady source of delicious and chemical free food. You can even make your own compost heap and give your edible garden all the nutrients it needs without adding toxins or pesticides.
5. Choose Fair Trade Products
When you’re buying items, especially coffee, chocolate, sugar, tea, and even clothes — look for the fair trade certification. This way you’ll know that your items were ethically grown or made using sustainable methods and that the local community receives a fair price for their goods or services.
6. Leave the Car at Home
Why not get yourself a bicycle? It’s not only a cheaper way to travel but it doubles up as a great workout. Making use of public transport is also an excellent way to reduce your carbon footprint. If you do have to make a car journey, why not carpool? Shared journeys help cut the number of vehicles on the road, reducing congestion and splits the cost of fuel. It’s a win-win for everyone!
7. Get a Bag for Life
For a more sustainable lifestyle, ditch the plastic bags at the store checkout. Take your own bags for groceries or any shopping. Tote bags can be easily rolled up to fit in your pocket, purse, or backpack to keep with you for those spontaneous shopping trips.
8. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle
Every product we buy has an environmental impact. From the materials used to manufacturing, transportation, and packaging. Before you purchase new items, ask yourself if you really need it and if so, does it really have to be brand new? Reusing and recycling pre-loved items is another great way to reduce your carbon footprint.
9. Avoid Single-Use Plastic
Plastic is killing our oceans and marine ecosystems at an alarming rate. Thousands of marine mammals, seabirds, sea turtles, and seals die every year from ingesting plastic or getting caught in it. You can cut down on plastic waste by ditching single-use plastic at home.
10. Opt for E-tickets and E-billing
Avoid printing or receiving paper bills when possible. Most banks and energy and utility companies now offer e-billing as a way to save money and paper. Cinemas, concerts, events, and airlines also have e-tickets which are more convenient to use and reduce unnecessary use of paper.
Sustainable living doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. With just a few small changes, you can start living a greener life at home!