Make 2022 the year that you do more for the planet. With climate change starting to show a true impact on our planet, we may have wanted to start sustainable living a bit earlier, but it’s never too late to make changes. Here are a few easy changes you can make that help our planet:
Stop drinking water from plastic bottles
A big way that we are doing damage to our planet is by using excess amounts of plastic. Plastic water bottles tend to be one of the biggest causes of plastic waste. Fortunately, there are ways to avoid this. With many options for water bottles and tumblers, you can not only cut back on plastic waste, but you can keep your water cool throughout the day.
Additionally, consider packing your lunches in a lunch box to avoid buying plastic-packaged lunches while out. Not only can these small changes help you live more sustainably, but they can also help you save money.
Use non-packaged soaps and shampoos
We need to clean our hair and bodies regularly, but packaged personal products are impacting our planet. The good news is that there are options available. Bar soaps and shampoos are becoming more commonplace these days, offering you a chance to live more sustainably.
From brands like Lush cosmetics to Eco Roots, you’ll find that there is something for everyone, whether you have curly hair or sensitive skin. Nowadays, there are a wide range of emerging and established beauty brands that are beginning to prioritize sustainability in their business practices.
Recycle plastics and paper
Many households do this, but many do not. It could be a good time to start the habit if you’re not separating recyclable materials just yet. Recycled items can often be reused to make other things and doing something simple yet effective to help the planet is a great sustainable move to make. Along with recycling yourself, consider shopping for goods that have been made from recycled items.
Use less energy
Consider installing a smart home energy system to help save energy. Whether you live in a cold area or a warm environment, it’s wise to save on energy, both for our planet and also for your electric bill. It’s easy to put the AC very low on hot days or too high on cold days but try to find a happy medium by getting an HVAC system designed for better energy usage.
Additionally, incorporate habits into how you use your AC, lights, and energy in your home, so you can use less. Creating habits such as turning off your home’s lights when you leave may take time, but it’s a worthwhile investment in the long run.
Consider buying less
If you are thinking about buying new clothes or more things to add to your home, consider whether or not you really need that new item. Clothing waste, for example, is a real thing.
If you do need new clothes, consider shopping at online thrift stores, where you can get clothes and eco-friendly shoes that are new to you but not to this planet. Avoid fast fashion if you can and if you shop for new, durable clothes, make sure they’re from durable brands.
In Conclusion
As you look into how you can live more sustainably this year, consider these tips mentioned above. While it may take time to develop new habits or change the way you’ve been doing things, you’ll feel a lot better once you incorporate some sustainable habits in 2022. Start small and do your part as you educate yourself on how you can live a more sustainable life, every year.
Image Credits: Karolina Grabowska, SHVETS production
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