Sustainable living is a way of life that encourages individuals to be socially responsible and environmentally conscious. The goal is to minimize the use of the Earth’s natural resources while providing a high standard of living for the people who inhabit the planet.
Some people choose to live sustainably for health reasons, while others do so to reduce their impact on the environment. Whatever your reason may be, it’s important to know that even the smallest changes can make a big difference when it comes to sustainable living. You can start small by opting for reusable face wipes instead of single-use plastic ones, and then move on to other more significant changes like choosing eco-friendly products for your home and car.
Depending on where you live, the type of energy used to run your household appliances and heat or cool your house will have an effect on your carbon footprint. One way to reduce your consumption is by investing in energy efficient appliances and using solar panels or a wind turbine if possible. Alternatively, you can cut your energy costs by turning off lights when not in use and making sure your home is well-insulated.
Another aspect of sustainability is to purchase organic or fair trade foods that have been grown in a responsible manner. Purchasing local meat also helps, as it’s often grown more sustainably than larger-scale factory farms. You can also help to preserve water supplies by reducing your water waste. This can be done by washing dishes in a sink full of cold water rather than hot, and by buying a reusable bottle or cup to drink from when visiting cafes and restaurants.
According to experts, sustainable living is a way of ensuring the planet’s ecosystems remain in balance. It involves avoiding actions that cause deforestation, air pollution and climate change while supporting economic development and maintaining social stability.
Sustainable living has become quite the trend with many young people adopting the lifestyle. It’s helped by the fact that a lot of young social media stars are advocating for it and sharing their journeys online. It’s not surprising that sustainability has gained such a following, with its hip, trendy persona and focus on minimalism, healthy eating and community involvement.
Clare McDermott, business development director of the Soil Association, explains that sustainable living means working with nature – not against it. “That means observing and respecting the process by which your food, clothing or household goods come to you, whether it’s by sea, air or soil, with care, consideration and knowledge so we don’t damage and deplete natural resources,” she says. It also means eating seasonally, avoiding pesticides and artificial fertilisers, consuming less meat and buying products with eco-friendly certifications such as the Forest Stewardship Council seal. It’s also about embracing green spaces and spending time in nature, which is good for mental health as well as the planet. In fact, studies have shown that spending time in nature can actually reduce anxiety and stress, so it’s an ideal way to unwind.