The Only Guide You Need To Start A Sustainable Lifestyle

A sustainable lifestyle is one that doesn’t damage or deplete the earth’s resources. It can be difficult to know where to start when transitioning to a more sustainable lifestyle. But don’t worry, this guide will teach you all you need to know about making the switch to a more sustainable, greener lifestyle. 

Use Eco-Friendly Detergent

Washing detergent is one of the most commonly used products in the home, and it’s also one of the most damaging to the environment. Conventional laundry detergents are filled with harsh chemicals and surfactants that can pollute waterways and harm marine life. So, to reduce your environmental impact, switch to an eco-friendly laundry detergent. There are many kinds of eco-friendly detergents. You can do eco-friendly clothes washing with soap nuts, eco friendly detergent sheet, or borax, or you can make your own green detergent with ingredients like baking soda, white vinegar, lemon juice, castile soap, and essential oils. Here’s how to choose eco-friendly detergent: 

-Check the ingredients. 

-Look for detergents with low environmental impact, like phosphate-free and biodegradable detergents. 

-Choose a detergent that’s packaged in recycled or recyclable materials. 

-Avoid fragrances, which are often made with harsh chemicals.

-Opt for a liquid or powder detergent over a tablet or pod detergent, which creates more waste.

Replace Old Appliances With Energy Efficient Ones

Appliances account for about 20 per cent of the average home’s energy use. So, by replacing old appliances with newer, energy-efficient models, you can contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle. If it isn’t feasible to replace an old appliance with a new one all at once, try replacing just the most energy-intensive appliances, like the refrigerator or air conditioner. 

Before buying new appliances, assess your needs and look for the Energy Star label, which indicates that the appliance is energy efficient. Also, choose to buy products made with sustainable materials, like bamboo or cork, which can be recycled at the end of their life cycle.

Reduce Your Meat Intake

Meat consumption is one of the leading causes of environmental degradation. The production of meat requires large amounts of land, feed, water and energy. Livestock also produces harmful greenhouse gases that contribute to climate change. So, reducing your meat intake is one of the best ways to contribute to a sustainable lifestyle. If you do want to continue eating meat, try to buy it from local farmers who use sustainable farming practises, like organic and grass-fed livestock. Here are tips for replacing meat:

-Try to eat more plant-based proteins, like beans, lentils and tofu. 

-Eat smaller portions of meat that are rich in omega 3 fatty acids, such as salmon or tuna. 

-Avoid processed meats, like hot dogs and bacon.

-Eat more vegetables and fruits. 

-Try vegetarian or vegan recipes.

Shop At Thrift Stores

Buying your clothes from thrift stores is a great way to reduce your environmental impact. Clothing production is one of the most polluting industries in the world, and it requires large amounts of energy, water and resources. So, by buying clothes from thrift stores, you can help to reduce the demand for new clothing. 

In addition, buying used clothes saves resources and ensures that old clothes get a second life instead of ending up in a landfill. Here are tips for thrifting:

-Shop at thrift stores near you. 

-Look for clothes that are made of sustainable materials, like organic cotton or bamboo. 

-Avoid clothes with synthetic fabrics, like polyester and rayon. 

-Check the condition of the clothes and make sure they’re not too damaged. 

-Be prepared to spend a little time looking through the racks. 

-Take your time to find the perfect piece of clothing for you.

-Find a thrift store that you like and consider making it your regular shopping destination.

-Share your finds with your friends on social media.

Bring Your Own Reusable Bag To Grocery Stores

Plastic bags are a common source of pollution. They often end up in bodies of water and become a threat to aquatic life. So, by avoiding the use of plastic bags, you can help reduce ocean pollution. 

Reusable bags are made of durable materials, like polyester or nylon, and can be used over and over again. So bring your own reusable bag to the grocery store and other places that require a bag. There are different shapes, colors, and sizes of reusable bags, so find one that’s perfect for you. 

Here are some tips for using your reusable bag:

-Make sure your reusable bag is clean and dry before using it. 

-Pack the heaviest items at the bottom of the bag. 

-Make sure the bag isn’t too heavy or you’ll need to double bag.

You don’t need to overhaul your entire life to live more sustainably. Just making a few small changes can make a big difference. By following these tips, you can start living a more sustainable lifestyle today.