Top 10 Ways to be More Sustainable

Top 10 Ways to be More Sustainable

Sustainable, sustainable, sustainable…You always hear people around you talk about being more sustainable, whether it is on the news, in your local community, school, on social media. But out of all the people who are aware of how living a sustainable lifestyle is better for the environment, who is actually taking action to actually live a more eco-friendly? If you are reading this, and have always been interested in sustainability but don’t know where to start, follow these top 10 ways.

1. Switch to reusable containers‍

Being part of the modern lifestyle, we should switch to reusable bottles and containers be sure to choose non-plastic such as mason glass jars or a sustainably made product that can break down easily. A coconut shell bowl would be a great option rather than a plastic container.

2. Recycle properly

Let 2022 be the year we recycle everything in proper categories! A rule of thumb for recycling is that plastic cans usually can be recycled in mixed recyclables. Cardboard and white paper go in the paper section. While caps, plastic bags, plastic film, and Styrofoam should be placed in the garbage bin rather than the recycling bins.

3. Shop at local farmer's markets

Farmer’s markets are around four seasons of the year. As spring and summer are approaching many more markets are popping up. If you get a chance to visit, stop by and shop for some local produce because the quality is far better than the ones in grocery stores, as they are more fresh and often fewer pesticides are used. They can be more expensive, but keep in mind that good health is much more expensive than the farmer’s market produces.

4. Compost your food waste

Composting is easy as 1, 2, 3. You just need a separate container to throw the daily food scraps and leftovers. The composting area can be a hole in the corner of your backyard or where you want to grow your fruits and vegetables. Just make sure to only include food scraps and things that are compostable. Composting at home can be very simple and effortless.

5. Bring your own bag

Say “NO” to plastic at all cost. The problem with plastic bags is that they cannot be recycled or composed therefore if it ends up in the ocean, the fish and all the sea creatures will not be able to digest them if they consume them. Plastic bags will not only harmful to humans but to all other beings on the planet. A smart choice is to stock up on reusable bags and just leave them in the back of your car, in your bag, and prepare tons at home. You never know when you will need a bag. So let’s normalize bringing reusable bags out the door; tote bags are another popular choice because it’s fashionable enough to go well with your outfit.

6. Switch from one-time-use plastic utensils to one-time-use wood utensils

Have you ever think how many years it takes for the single-use plastic utensils you use at parties to decompose or will they ever completely break down? Aside from government bans on plastic usage, many restaurants and consumers have been aware of this situation and started to purchase disposable wooden cutleries. They can decompose easier than plastic and work the same. So why not? Did you know that every year millions of plastic forks and spoons end up in the ocean? Now is the time to start buying wooden utensils such as bamboo sustainable ones.

7. Grow your own fruits and vegetables/herbs

Growing your own produce is the healthiest and most sustainable way to eat. We avoid the trip to drive out and purchase groceries and the produce can be consumed the day of, right from the field. If you are a newbie in gardening, herbs can be a great choice to start off with. The five easiest herbs to grow are basil, oregano, thyme, mint, and parsley. My favourite fruit to grow are strawberries, as they are my absolute favourite fruit. Especially in the summer, they are perfect to add to my acai bowls and smoothies bowls.

8. Change to LED lightbulbs

Did you know that LED light bulbs typically use about 75% less energy than regular incandescent light bulbs? Another good thing about LED bulbs is that they last 35 times longer. This means we save money in the long run, we wouldn’t need to constantly change our bulbs. And this may be the reason why LED lights have been a popular choice for many consumers.

9. Install a low-flow shower head

The water consumption of a shower is the main source that consumes the most water. Anyone surprised? A great way to conserve water is to take shorter showers, best to be under 10 minutes. But if that is too challenging, a low-flow shower head may be your option, the water flow is smaller, and the water pressure is lower. But at least you can still have your nice long showers right?

10.  Opt for recycled toilet paper

Based on research, everyday about 270,000 trees are effectively flushed down the toilet and 10% of that number is from toilet papers. Many companies now offers recycled toilet paper, tissues, and paper towels. Choosing toilet paper produced from recycled materials may not seem like you are contributing a lot to help the environment, but in the long-run you are making a difference. If you are already doing this, keep going! Those who have not yet started, you can start today (now).

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