Now we’re in 2021, it is a great time to make the decision to become more sustainable. You may already be sticking with some new years resolutions, but sustainable living is the way forward if you need another to add to the list.
In this article, we’re going to focus on what sustainable living means, why it is important, and the changes you can make to achieve this.
What does sustainable living mean?
You may hear the word “sustainability” in the news, online and from environmental activists. However, it is normal not fully to understand what the word means.
Sustainable living means “prioritising the use of natural and renewable resources instead of creating excess waste and depleting resources for future generations.”
This may seem an overwhelming meaning at first, but any changes you can make to be more sustainable will positively impact the environment.
Why is it important to be sustainable?
It is crucial for the environment that we all make a conscious effort to become more sustainable. Fossil fuels are critical to the way we live, but they are not unlimited. Unless a change is made, they will run out.
As a society, we have already seen the impacts of environmental damage , a decrease in animal populations, and the terrible effects of landfill sites.
How to be more sustainable at home
As we are all becoming more aware of the environmental crisis and being sustainable, many people wonder how they can achieve this.
Below, we have put together some easy ways to be sustainable while you’re at home.
Focus on your fashion
Firstly, organise your wardrobe so you can properly see what is in there. You’re more likely to understand what you need and what you don’t when everything is visually in front of you.
If you have items of clothing that you no longer wear, donate them to charity. Although it may only be an old t-shirt to you, it could mean the world to someone else. As well as helping the less fortunate, it prevents the clothing from going to landfill.
When buying your clothes, make sure to ask yourself whether you’re going to wear it more than once and whether it is actually worth the price. Often when you stop to think about a purchase, rather than being impulsive, you are more careful.
Have a go at upcycling
Upcycling is a brilliant way to reuse your unwanted items around the home creatively. Instead of throwing an item away, make sure to think about whether it can be turned into something else.
For example, if you have some old toilet roll holders, you can create a desk tidy. Take a look at some more quick upcycling ideas, here.
Walk more
Now this one is quite simple but extremely effective. Although your travel may be limited at the moment due to COVID-19, it would make a huge difference to walk wherever you’re travelling.
Not only will this positively impact the environment due to the reduction in carbon emissions, but it will also help your mental health during this trying time.
Grow your own produce
It is a great time to pick up a hobby due to the lockdown, so have a go at growing your own fruit and vegetables. This will help reduce fossil fuel usage while travelling to the supermarket and means you can be adventurous with what you grow!
Don’t forget to recycle
It is not always possible to upcycle or save damaged and unusable items. So, you must remember to recycle effectively.
It is always helpful to have two bins for your waste, one for general waste and one for recyclable items.
Be conscious
You could make hundreds of changes to have a sustainable life, but the main idea is to be conscious. For example, if you need a new foundation, look into an eco-friendly brand. If you need a water bottle, make sure to buy a reusable one that can be upcycled after rather than numerous single-use plastic bottles.
Whenever you buy or do anything, if you have a tiny part of your brain that reminds you of sustainability, you make a conscious effort to be better.