As the world grapples with climate change, depletion of natural resources and loss of biodiversity, many people are taking action to become more sustainable. Sustainable living is the practice of making everyday choices that minimize environmental impact. Whether you are an individual, a business or a government, there is always something that can be done to make a difference.
According to a recent study, 77% of individuals want to learn more about sustainability and how they can help. However, many are unsure where to start. This is because sustainable living is more than just recycling or using reusable bags. It is a mindset and a way of life.
In the context of reducing waste, sustainable living encourages you to purchase products that will last and to repair what you have rather than replacing it with a new item. It also involves purchasing locally-grown and produced foods and avoiding food from far-away locations that may require a lot of chemicals and fuel for transportation. It also means reducing the amount of meat you consume, as this is a major contributor to greenhouse gases and deforestation.
A big part of sustainable living is learning skills that will allow you to reduce your dependency on packaged goods. For example, sewing on a button or fixing a fuse are not only valuable skills, but they can save you money in the long run. Similarly, repurposing items you would otherwise throw away is another great way to be more sustainable. Reusing a plastic bag as a grocery bag or re-purposing a glass jar with a missing lid are just two easy examples of how you can do this.
There are many ways to live sustainably, and every small effort makes a difference. Some of the most common actions are to use public transport instead of driving, shop at local stores, eat organic or local produce and avoid single-use plastics. It is also important to reduce your energy consumption and recycle as much as possible.
Lastly, you can do your bit by supporting green businesses and encouraging governments to create policies that promote sustainable living. The new year is a great time to start fresh, so why not commit to some eco-friendly changes in your lifestyle?
By adopting a greener mindset, you can contribute to reducing poverty, cleaning up the planet, combatting climate change and ensuring that all children have a chance at a future. Despite feeling overwhelmed by the scale of global problems, it’s important to remember that every act counts. Changing your habits is the most effective way to help.