Resourceful and Long-Lasting: Ten Ecologically Sound Suggestions for Daily Living
In an article penned by contributing writer Tammy Strobel, readers are offered a wealth of practical tips for adopting an eco-friendly lifestyle. The author's approach is rooted in the belief that sustainable living extends beyond reducing consumption and transportation choices, encompassing lifestyle and habits that minimise electronic dependency and foster mindful presence.
- Volunteering for Community Events: Engaging in community activities like tree planting and park cleanups can help build social trust and connect one to their community.
- Reducing Consumption: A simple yet effective step is to stop buying items you don't need. This practice not only saves resources but also encourages more mindful, less consumer-driven living habits.
- Composting Kitchen Waste: The author practices composting kitchen waste using techniques like vermicomposting. This not only reduces waste but also provides nutrient-rich soil for gardens.
- Shopping Locally: Supporting local communities by shopping at farmer's markets not only uses less packaging but also minimises food miles.
- Conserving Energy: The author conserves energy by unplugging electronics, using appliances during non-peak hours, and adjusting the temperature in their living space.
- Breaking Up with Your Phone: Reclaiming attention, time, and energy by limiting phone usage can indirectly support eco-friendly living. This can be achieved by avoiding activities like walking while texting and engaging in phone-free activities such as journaling, reading, cycling, gardening, playing musical instruments, or artistic hobbies like collage.
- Planning Phone-Free Gatherings: Organising face-to-face meetings without phones can deepen social bonds while minimising digital distractions and the energy footprint associated with constant device use.
- Charging Your Phone Outside the Bedroom: This practice helps avoid electronic distractions and potentially reduces electronic consumption and energy waste.
- Repairing Belongings: Instead of replacing items, the author suggests repairing them. This not only saves resources but also fosters a more mindful approach to consumption.
- Picking Up Trash: A fun and effective way to reduce litter is to pick up trash on walks and in the community.
In addition to these tips, the author suggests trying challenges like "Project 333" or "No Buy July" to stop buying unnecessary items. For those interested in the environmental impact of consumerism and waste, books such as "The Story of Stuff" by Annie Leonard, "Secondhand: Travels in the New Global Garage Sale" by Adam Minter, and "All We Can Save," an anthology of writings by 60 women at the forefront of the climate movement, are recommended reads.
The author also recommends Beth Terry's book, "Plastic Free: How I Kicked the Plastic Habit and How You Can Too," for practical guidance on reducing plastic in one's life. Lastly, the non-partisan organization IssueVoter helps individuals follow issues they care about, get alerts before bills pass, and track votes and outcomes automatically.
By implementing these tips, readers can make a significant contribution to the environment and lead a more sustainable, mindful lifestyle.
- The realization that sustainable living encompasses more than just reducing consumption alsoextends to the world of fashion, where purchasing second-hand clothes or making your own clothes can minimize waste and promote eco-friendly choices.
- For those interested in a career in environmental science or climate-change activism, following organizations like Greenpeace, Sierra Club, and 350.org can provide opportunities to learn, volunteer, and make a difference.
- In the realm of home-and-garden, one can adopt eco-friendly practices such as creating a rainwater collection system, using natural pest control methods, and planting native plants to support local wildlife and reduce the need for water and chemicals.
- The author's commitment to sustainable-living extends to the dining table by favoring plant-based foods, buying locally grown produce in season, and reducing food waste through thoughtful meal planning and freezing leftovers.
- Adopting these practices can lead to a fulfilling lifestyle that prioritizes personal well-being, as well as the health of the climate-change and environmental-science communities we all share.
