How can you help save the earth?
You want to help the planet, but where to begin? It feels like everything you do and everything you use is 'bad' these days. So is it all just hopeless?
Is it just too big for one person to have an impact? Not at all! Anything you do can have a huge effect on the world around you, never forget how important you are!
Educate yourself and others about environmental issues and ways we can all help make a difference. Search for ways that your region recycles disposable items that you just can't let go of.
For example, some places accept used household batteries, either in hazardous waste at landfills or companies finding ways to do their part.
Here are some other small changes you can make in your daily life to help the environment.
Save water!
Water is an increasingly precious resource, so it makes sense to use it as efficiently as possible in our daily lives.
Small changes like turning off the tap while brushing your teeth or watering plants during the cooler hours of the day can make a big difference over time.
Print what you need
Most of us tend to print out far more than we actually need. Not only is this a waste of paper, but it's also a waste of time and money. Try to only print what you absolutely need and you'll save both trees and cash.
Compost
Organic matter like food scraps and garden waste make up a large portion of what we throw away – yet these materials can be easily composted at home, reducing what goes in the trash while creating a nutrient-rich soil amendment for your garden.
Swapsies!
Eco-friendly products are becoming more popular and easier to find. Look for re-usable, natural, sustainable and cruelty-free products when you shop.
Foodie Swaps - Re-usable over Disposable
Swap out your plastic straws for metal straws, when you're out and about, remember to bring your metal straws with you. Use a cute carry case for all your cutlery and straws.
When your favourite takeaway offers straws, chopsticks or plastic cutlery, say no thank-you, I've got my own! Then pull out your adorable set.
You can do the same with water bottles and coffee cups - BYO! It's becoming super normalised to bring your own. Not only is it normal but it's more fun! You can personalise your life, match your colours to your mood (or friend) and more.
Some places are happy to make your food using your own container. It's maybe a little strange to get used to at first. The people at St Pierre's, give no judgement when you hand them your container and ask for your sushi.
This is a huge boost to making you more confident when asking at other places (p.s - most places are ok with doing this because - you're saving them money on buying containers!). Try somewhere you know first, to break into the BYO food container life.
Speaking of BYO - Lets go Shopping!
Eco-friendly shopping bags are made from sustainable materials like bamboo, hemp, and organic cotton. They are durable and can be reused many times.
Do your part by bringing your own reusable bags when you go shopping. This includes not only your shopping bags but produce bags too.
We haven't yet got rid of the produce bags in the supermarket, but you can decrease demand by bringing your own. Try our favourite bags by Ladelle.
Bathroom Swaps
The best way to avoid using single-use plastics is to simply not buy them in the first place. If you must use them, try to find ways to reuse or recycle them.
Here are some great ideas for your bathroom that will get you off the throw-away train for good.
Safety Razors
To reduce waste, try using safety razors instead of disposable ones. Safety razors are made to last and can be used over and over again. They also provide a closer shave, which means you won’t have to shave as often.
Our Caliwoods safety razors even have a send-back program, where you can send used blades back to them to be recycled safely. Not only are you saving the earth but these razors look absolutely beautiful.
Shampoo Bars
Avoid using single-use plastics by switching to a shampoo or conditioning bar. Shampoo bars are made with all-natural ingredients and are gentle on the environment.
They last longer than bottled shampoo and are usually cheaper as well. You could save up to 6 bottles of shampoo by using 1 shampoo or conditioning bar by EarthLove.
No More Micro-beads
Micro-beads are tiny pieces of plastic that are used as exfoliants in some personal care products. They are so small that they can pass through water treatment plants and end up in our oceans where they pollute the water and harm marine life. Read your labels carefully and make the right choice.
Final Hot Tips
Natural Fibres
Like cotton and wool, natural fibres are biodegradable and don’t release harmful chemicals into the environment.
Recycled Materials
They are made from products that would otherwise end up in landfills. By choosing products made from recycled materials, you’re helping to reduce waste and protect the environment.
Bulk Buying
Purchasing items in bulk can help to reduce packaging waste. If you have the storage space - go for it!
Brands
There are many brands out there that are eco-friendly and support sustainable practices. Do some research and carefully choose brands that share your values. Look for brands who live their values, they'll generally be pretty vocal about it!
Energy Use
Reduce your energy consumption by making small changes, turning off lights when you leave a room or using a power strip for all your electronics can have a bigger impact than you think.
Get Outside!
Plant trees and gardens to help improve air quality and provide habitat for wildlife. Don't underestimate the impact this activity can have on your mental health either.
Ditch the Car
Whenever possible, try walking or biking instead of driving and explore the world around you. Not only will it help reduce pollution and traffic congestion, but it's also great exercise!
When it comes to making eco-friendly changes, the options are endless, start with one thing and you'll discover how easy it is to change your habits. Your new habits, no matter how small - are making a big difference, go you!
