You have the power to help shape the future and one powerful way to do so is by adopting sustainable habits. This year, make a conscious effort to reduce your environmental impact and contribute to a healthier planet. Here are some practical and achievable tips for embracing eco-friendliness in the coming year.
Eat Less Meat
Choosing to eat less meat is a simple step you can take to improve your lifestyle. In addition to helping save the planet by cutting down on carbon emissions and reducing the demand for water and land resources, it’s also a smart move for your health. Start by trying out Meatless Mondays or swapping out some meaty meals with tasty plant-based alternatives. There are so many delicious options out there, from veggie burgers to chickpea tacos and even desserts.
I started by switching to almond milk in my morning lattes and gradually, the other changes fell into place. I’m a massive fan of veggies and my go-to plant-based dinner is a tofu stir-fry! Reducing my meat consumption was much easier than I ever thought it would be. With all the tasty options in stores these days, sometimes they taste better than the real thing.
Go Thrifting
Thrifting is a popular trend at the moment — and for good reason! Thrifting is a sustainable choice and allows you to express your individuality without breaking the bank. Plus, you’ll be wearing stylish pieces no one else has. By choosing pre-loved clothing, you’re reducing your environmental footprint and contributing to a circular fashion economy.
Whether you’re on the hunt for a vintage denim jacket or trendy accessories, thrift shopping lets you create a wardrobe that stands out while being eco-friendly. Visit your nearest second-hand stores on your next shopping trip with your friends and see who can find the most unique pieces.
Reduce Single-Use Plastics
Taking a stand against single-use plastics is an impactful way to protect the environment. By choosing reusable alternatives like water bottles, bags, containers, and utensils, you’re actively reducing the flood of plastic waste that harms our oceans and wildlife.
Every time you choose a reusable item over a plastic one, you prevent over 150 plastic bottles from entering the ocean each year. Plus, there are plenty of cute reusable options in different colors, and you’ll save money by not buying a bottle each time you leave the house.
Turn Off the Lights
How often do your parents yell at you for leaving lights burning when you exit a room? Turning off lights might seem like a small action, but it can have a big impact on the environment and your household energy consumption. Every time you flick that switch off when you leave a room, you’re reducing the amount of greenhouse gas emissions.
It’s a simple habit that can make a significant difference. So, make it a point to be mindful of light in unused spaces.
Don’t Leave Your TV on
You may use your TV as background noise while you study or scroll on social media, but it’s contributing to unnecessary electricity consumption. Instead of relying on the TV for background noise, consider enjoyable and eco-friendly alternatives.
Perhaps listen to a podcast, play your favorite music on low volume or read a good book. I enjoy blasting my favorite songs through my headphones while smashing through my to-do list and leaving the TV for when I’m binge-watching a series.
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Take Sustainable Transport to School
Switch up your transport by organizing a lift club with a friend or taking the bus. If you live close to campus, biking or walking are excellent zero-impact choices as you’ll reduce air pollution and boost your health and fitness.
Take Showers, Not Baths
As water becomes more and more scarce, it’s essential to save as much water as possible. One in 10 people have limited access to fresh water — that’s approximately 785 million people worldwide. One way you can help is by choosing to shower instead of bathing. Showers consume less water and reduce household utility bills.
Save Paper
Over 200 million trees are cut down each day to make paper. Swap your pen and paper for digital alternatives when note-taking or working on assignments. Use online resources and e-books to reduce the need for printouts.
If your school allows it, use a tablet or laptop to complete your work and save plenty of paper. When I need to print a worksheet or homework, I use both sides of the paper to reduce my usage as much as possible.
Be Mindful of Your Purchases
Be mindful of the things you buy. Consider the environmental and ethical impact of your purchases. Choose items with minimal packaging, choose brands committed to sustainability, and invest in good quality products that will last for years. I like to ask myself these questions when making a purchase:
- Can I buy this second-hand?
- Who made it?
- Do I own something similar?
- How often will I use it?
- How long will it last?
- How much packaging does it have?
Recycle
Make recycling a daily habit. Tons of recyclable items are sent to landfills, contributing to water and air pollution. Only 9% of plastic has been recycled, meaning the rest is in oceans or landfills. Separate recyclables from your household waste, making sure items like paper, glass, metal, and plastic are sent to recycling facilities.
Get creative with upcycling projects to breathe new life into old items. Turn old clothing into rags or used jars into flower pots to prevent them from ending up in landfills. I love using my old jam jars for pickling vegetables like onions, cabbage, cucumber, and beetroot! It’s a fun hobby and reduces waste.
Volunteer and Support Eco Causes
Join local clean-up events to pick up litter, participate in tree-planting initiatives, or volunteer at recycling initiatives. You can inspire others to join the cause by offering your time and energy to these programs. It’s also a great way to make new friends who share your passions. Whether it’s a few hours on the weekend or a monthly commitment, your volunteer efforts can leave a lasting impact on your community.
Lead the Way to a Greener Planet
You have the energy and enthusiasm to make a significant difference in the world. By adopting just a few sustainable habits you can contribute to a healthier planet and inspire others to follow suit. This year, make it a priority to lead the way toward a more sustainable future for all.
