8 Ways to Live a More Sustainable Life

Sustainable living is often thought of as a daunting undertaking, but it doesn't have to be! It is about making small changes in our daily lives to help protect our environment. By doing so, it is also bringing a positive impact in our lives. 

There are many easy and impactful ways to live a more sustainable life. This guide will help you get started. 

1. Reduce Your Energy Consumption 

You can save energy and money by making simple changes in your home. One of the easiest ways to reduce your carbon footprint is simply using less energy. 

The best ways to accomplish this include:

• Utilising energy-efficient light bulbs
• Turning off lights when leaving a room
• Lowering your thermostat in the winter
• Unplugging electronics when not in use
• Dressing appropriately for the season

2. Eat Less Meat

The production of meat contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions, so eating less meat is a great way to reduce your impact. Try having meatless Mondays, or go vegetarian or vegan a few days a week.

By consciously reducing your meat consumption, you are not only impacting the environment but you’re also practicing a healthy lifestyle.

3. Shop Local and Secondhand

Buying locally produced food and goods reduces transportation emissions and supports your local economy. Additionally, buying secondhand items reduces waste and saves you money! 

If you can't find what you're looking for on used items or if you want to help a green company, buy things from sustainable brands.

4. Compost

Composting is an excellent way to reduce food waste and help your garden grow. You can compost at home or participate in a community composting program. Composting can turn your food and yard waste into valuable fertiliser for your garden. 

5. Reduce, Reuse, Recycle

We've all heard about this many times before, but it's worth repeating! Reducing the amount of stuff you consume, reusing items instead of throwing them away and recycling what you can help to reduce your impact on the planet. 

Recycling helps reduce landfill waste. Buy sustainable products, and look for products made from recycled materials or those that are environmentally friendly. 

6. Save Water

Water is a precious resource, so it's essential to use it wisely. There are many ways to save water at home. This includes turning the faucet off while brushing your teeth, taking shorter showers, fixing leaks, installing water-saving showerheads and watering your plants during the cooler hours of the day.

7. Choose Sustainable Products

When you're shopping for new products, look for items that are made from sustainable materials, such as bamboo or recycled plastic. 

You can also choose products that are designed to be more energy-efficient, such as energy-saving light bulbs or appliances with the ENERGY STAR label. 

8. Drive Less

Driving is a significant source of pollution, so try to carpool, take public transportation, or ride your bike when possible. Even better, if your destination isn’t that far, you can walk instead. It is a good exercise!

Conclusion

Sustainable living doesn't have to be complicated. Making small changes in your lifestyle can have a significant impact, and we can all help make a big difference in protecting our planet.

Searching for sustainable homewares, accessories, gifts, food, drinks and beauty products? Check out our plastic-free collections at The Living Co. We have everything from kitchen and bath products to personal care items.

Photo by: Jen.P / Unsplash