There might be a few instances when we are going through a tough time, and money is tight. Whether we have just gotten off a job or saving up for something big, the reason doesn't matter. Those difficult times remind us to keep our consumption in check, and we might lean towards sustainable living.
The popular myth circulated is that sustainable living is only for the rich, which is not the case. It might seem like you have to make many adjustments to convert your current living habits into sustainable living. A few changes here and there can kick-start your journey of sustainable living.
Keeping the 3 R’s in Mind When Stepping Into Living Sustainably
Whenever eco-friendly talks arise, we hear about the 3 R's- reduce, reuse and recycle. Let's tackle these three concepts when switching to an eco-friendly lifestyle by asking these questions to ourselves.
1. Reduce
This concept can be remembered by asking ourselves the following questions:
- Is this item necessary?
- Do I already have something which might have a similar purpose?
- Can this item be acquired by thrifting or renting?
- Is it exceeding my budget?
2. Reuse
Another concept to remember by ensuring that we:
- Get rid of single-use products and switch to reusable items.
- Use natural eco-friendly products like rattan baskets, jute tote bags or sustainable kitchen products.
3. Recycle
Everybody learns about this, but most of us forget to apply this concept to our lives. Here is how you can ensure that you recycle your items:
- Think twice before chucking an item into the trash bin, and reuse it if possible.
- Wet waste and everyday biodegradable waste belong in a compost pot.
- Aluminium, metal and glass articles can be recycled.
Some of the Efficient Ways to Switch to a Sustainable Lifestyle
Choosing sustainability is like breaking the bank is partly untrue. Even though it might seem expensive initially, it is cheaper and reduces costs in the long run.
Reducing your consumption of harmful items from companies with unethical business practices and choosing products made from natural resources are the simplest ways to develop a sustainable lifestyle. Here we complied a few ideas that will help you:
1. Choose to Thrift
In this claustrophobic world of fast fashion with enormous environmental side effects, choosing to thrift is like fresh air. You might just ask what sustainable fashion is. It is choosing to buy second-hand clothes and reusing them instead of letting them head towards landfills, but sustainability in fashion has many aspects apart from thrifting.
2. Upcycling Items
Upcycling is a cool idea! If you have a creative idea of changing the looks and use of an existing item, then why not DIY it? Popular videos are trending where people are upcycling their old pants into a bag or making patchwork tablecloths.
3. Reduce Waste
You can cut a substantial amount of waste from your life if you just plan. Rather than going to the store thinking you might need it a week later, keep a list of all the things that you are going to finish. This will reduce the number of shopping trips, and meal plans for 3 to 4 days will use all the grocery items evenly.
4. Forget About Organic. Hit the Farmer's Market
By now, seeing the consumerism all around, you must know that shopping in-store is always costly. Visit the farmer's market in the morning for fresh, sustainable kitchen products. Get your hands on fresh vegetables and fruits at a reduced cost. Buying local produce reduces the carbon footprint and helps the economy.
5. Grow Your Herbs
Stop going to the store for everyday herbs that you cook with. If you have a little balcony or porch, get a few tubs and start your herb garden. Herbs like parsley, lemongrass, and spring onions grow in pots without fuss. Many soft-stemmed veggies sprout without much attention, just dip them in water and let them spread their stems.
6. Compost Bin Instead of Trash Bin
Fertilizers are too costly when bought from a nursery, so why not make your own? Use a tin box or wooden pellet that you can easily get from a hardware store.
Any vegetable peel, egg shells, and unbleached tea bags are good for creating organic compost. Just remember to avoid any meat or animal remains as they might contaminate the soil.
Final Thoughts
Even if some of us make a few changes to our lives and be a little environmentally conscious, the world will change for the better. Not everybody can make major changes, but little efforts matter a lot.
Sustainable living is not only for this generation but by living mindfully now, and we will leave a better environment for future generations. Hopefully, these ideas will help you get a jump start on sustainable living, and you can always join hands with Verte Mode to create awareness regarding modern, conscious living methods.
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