15 Sustainable Tips You Can Actually Stick To If You Want To Go Green
Living a sustainable lifestyle can sometimes feel like a difficult job. Still, there are small changes you can make in your daily routine that can positively impact the environment. The following are fifteen sustainable tips and hacks that are actually worth trying out.
1. Ditch the Single-Use Plastic Bottles
Not only are single-use plastic bottles harmful to the environment, but they can also be harmful to your health. Invest in a reusable water bottle that you can refill throughout the day. This will help save money and reduce waste.
2. Use a Clothesline on Sunny Days
Consider using a clothesline to dry your laundry on sunny days instead of a dryer. Using a clothesline on sunny days is a great way to save money on your energy bill, and it also helps reduce your carbon footprint. Plus, drying your clothes in direct sunlight is a great way to eliminate odors from your clothing.
3. Plant a Vegetable Garden
Planting a backyard vegetable garden is a great way to ensure you always have fresh produce and reduce your carbon footprint. Transportation of produce from the farm to retailers contributes to air pollution from the vehicle's exhaust fumes. Additionally, gardening is an excellent stress reliever and a fun hobby.Â
4. Turn Off and Unplug Unused ElectronicsÂ
Have you ever heard of phantom electricity? Even when electronics are turned off, they still use energy if they're plugged in. But, by turning off and unplugging electronics when they aren't in use, you can reduce your energy consumption and save money on your light bill.Â
5. Switch to Reusable StrawsÂ
Plastic straws are one of the most significant contributors to ocean pollution, so switching to reusable straws is an easy way to reduce waste. Opting for metal, silicone, glass, bamboo, or paper straws is a small change that can make a big difference in the environment.Â
6. Go PaperlessÂ
Years ago, we would have never imagined having no use for paper. Still, we currently have access to technology like e-billing, e-statements, and e-tickets. With so many digital alternatives available, there's no reason to waste paper unless it's absolutely necessary. Take advantage of virtual solutions as much as possible.
7. Switch to LED BulbsÂ
Did you know that LED bulbs use up to 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs and last up to 25 times longer? They will help you to save money on your electrical bill, and you don't have to replace them as often.
8. Adopt Reusable Shopping Bags
Switching to reusable shopping bags is one of the easiest ways to reduce your environmental impact. They're sturdier than flimsy plastic bags and can also be used over and over again, reducing the amount of waste you produce. Try keeping them in your car and near your front door so you won't forget them whenever you go shopping.
9. Reuse Food ScrapsÂ
Instead of throwing away food scraps, try finding ways to reuse them. You could give food scraps that are safe for animals to eat to your pet, save veggie scraps to make a vegetable broth, and use the rest for composting.Â
10. Sell Unwanted ClothingÂ
Do you have clothes in your closet that you haven't used in several months or even years? Instead of throwing them away, consider selling them on online platforms like Poshmark or Depop. This will reduce your waste and earn you some extra cash at the same time.Â
11. Switch to Green Cleaning Products
Traditional cleaning products typically contain chemicals that are bad for both the environment and your health. Instead, look for cleaning products with natural ingredients such as vinegar, baking soda, and essential oils.
12. Use Clothing Rental ServicesÂ
If you have an upcoming formal event or special occasion, consider using a clothing rental service instead of buying new clothes. These companies offer you a great way to look good and wear the latest trends without accumulating possessions you'll most likely only use once.
13. Use Rechargeable Batteries
Disposable batteries can be harmful to the environment if they aren't disposed of properly. By switching to rechargeable batteries, you reduce the amount of waste you produce and save you money in the long run.
14. Switch to Reusable Makeup WipesÂ
Disposable makeup wipes can be harmful to the skin. They don't completely remove all of the makeup on your face and also contain chemicals that can irritate and dry the skin. Reusable makeup wipes are much more gentle on the skin and reduce the amount of waste you produce.
15. Eat Less Meat ProductsÂ
Livestock farming contributes to greenhouse grass emissions, which are a significant contributor to climate change. Going vegetarian or vegan or simply eating less meat can reduce your carbon footprint and help protect the environment.Â
She started her blog, The Money Dreamer, when she realized the 9-5 job was not the lifestyle she wanted anymore. After designing for a while, she wanted a more meaningful life, which was freedom, so she decided to venture out. She took action so that she can live her dream life and decided to help people to live theirs by helping them how to save, budget, and invest.
