Everyone is well aware of climate change and its effect on human life. Needless to say, it requires immediate action to help save the environment. However, it is also true that it’s easier said than done.
There are countless eco-friendly practices that one can follow. But, for a beginner, it is quite challenging to instantly switch to a new lifestyle. That’s why one must start small. As Anne Marie Bonneau has said,
“We don’t need a handful of people following a zero-waste lifestyle perfectly. We need millions of people doing it imperfectly.”
So, let’s look at the 3 practical measures that beginners can take for the environment.
Ways To Become Eco-friendly In Everyday Life
1. Fashion
Did you know that the global fashion industry produces approximately 92 million tons of waste every year? Only 15 to 20% of these materials are recycled. And the rest contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.
That’s why it is recommended to:
- Buy fewer clothes, especially if you are a shopaholic or impulsive buyer.
- Learn to hand sew and basic stitching. It will help you DIY or thrift your existing clothes. So, you’ll never run out of something new to wear. Plus, you’ll save money.
- If you do have to purchase clothes, give preference to thrift, second-hand and vintage clothes. Also, consider buying outfits from local stores instead of buying expensive branded clothes.
- While selecting clothes, go with eco-friendly materials such as cotton instead of polyester.
2. Beauty
Beauty products and cosmetics look stunning with their unique packaging and plastic wraps, right? But sadly, these beautiful packaging leads to wastage. Therefore, it is essential to try plastic free beauty (as well as every day) products. Switch to organic and natural health and beauty products.
Apart from this,
- Replace your makeup remover wipes with reusable cotton pads. They are more effective and also soft on your skin.
- Buy products with minimal packaging such as shampoo and body bars. These are generally made of natural ingredients, thus helping rejuvenate your body. Plus, they have a longer shelf life as compared to liquid soaps and shampoos. And they help in reducing plastic wastage.
- Purchase from the brands which are taking the initiative to clean the environment by planting trees, cleaning oceans, recycling product waste, etc.
3. Food
Last but not least, you should reduce food wastage. Packed and processed might help you save time and effort, but it contributes to the wastage.
Therefore, you should try the following tips:
- Cut down your meat consumption. No! It doesn’t mean you need to go vegan. Instead, you can switch to a plant-based diet to reduce meat and dairy consumption once in a while.
- Give preference to local food instead of ordering imported fruits and vegetables. It will help grow the local farmer’s market and will also be benefiting your wallet.
- When you go to the supermarket, bring your own bag, preferably a jute bag. This way, you do not need to get plastic bags to carry the food. Also, buy unpacked food instead of sealed or canned one.
Wrapping Up!
These are some practical ways in which you can contribute towards an eco-friendly lifestyle. Believe it or not, these little efforts will help reduce wastage, further contributing to nature. Plus, once you start following a zero-waste lifestyle, it’ll become easier for you to adapt to other significant lifestyle changes.
