The new year is a good time to think about the impact of our daily choices. And while we can’t control everything that happens around us, we can make a difference by choosing sustainable living options. Sustainable living is all about minimizing the use of natural resources while reducing pollution, waste and climate change. This type of lifestyle also helps promote ethical consumption. It involves making eco-friendly swaps and encouraging the use of renewable energy.
The idea is to live in a way that does not deplete natural resources or damage the environment, according to the Soil Association. Dr Rima Trofimovaite, interim head of certification at Planet Mark, explains that it’s about working with nature rather than against it. She says: “As we continue to grow and develop, it’s important that we are doing so with the Earth in mind. This means limiting the amount of resources we use and being aware of how our actions can affect others – it’s about operating with care and consideration.”
According to Prew, there are many simple steps that can be taken to be more environmentally-friendly, and they don’t all have to cost you a fortune. For instance, reusing household items like sponges and coffee mugs reduces the need to purchase disposable alternatives. Additionally, she suggests getting clothes repaired instead of throwing them away.
It’s a great way to avoid purchasing new clothing that has been made in unsustainable conditions and gives the old pieces a fresh lease on life. Additionally, she recommends looking at your diet and consuming less meat. This is because eating too much meat can have a negative impact on the environment, as it requires a lot of water and land to produce. Additionally, it releases methane gas into the atmosphere, which contributes to climate change more than CO2.
Another great tip is using renewable energy for your home. Choosing solar panels or geothermal heating is a great way to lower your carbon footprint. It will also help save you money on energy bills in the long run.
Other tips include growing your own vegetables and fruit at home, using a clothes line to dry washing and buying locally-sourced goods to minimize transportation. Additionally, reducing your water usage by turning off the tap when not in use and taking shorter showers can significantly decrease your environmental impact.
Ultimately, it is up to individuals to take action and urge governments, businesses and more to make sustainable living the default option. In doing so, they can work towards tackling the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss and food insecurity.
By adopting more sustainable habits, we can protect our planet, help fight poverty, and ensure that every child has a chance to thrive. Let’s begin the new year by setting goals to be more eco-friendly. After all, our future depends on it.