Incorporating eco-friendly practices into your everyday life is an important step towards creating a sustainable future for our planet. It can be overwhelming to know where to start, but there are so many simple changes you can make that will have a positive impact on the environment - and your daily life.
Here are 5 practices we’ve implemented (and are loving) in our homes:
- Reduce Energy & Water Consumption One of the simplest ways to reduce your carbon footprint is to reduce your energy & water consumption. Turn off lights and appliances when they’re not in use, and unplug chargers and other electronics when you’re not using them. When washing laundry, use cold/warm water and use the ‘quick wash’ setting. Not only do you save water and time but your clothes and linens will look better, longer.
- Use Sustainable Cleaning Products Many conventional cleaning products contain chemicals that are harmful to the environment. You can make your own cleaning products using natural ingredients like vinegar and baking soda, or choose eco-friendly cleaning products that are made from natural ingredients and biodegradable. Also, ditch the big containers of soap and detergent and opt for pods or sheets. Some of our favorites are Grab Green and Branch Basics.
- Repurpose Items Around Your Home Buy products that can be used for multiple purposes. We love to repurpose things around our home and give them new life. For instance, old mason jars as large drinking glasses, old hand towels as cleaning rags, our peshtemal for couch throws and tablecloths, the list goes on. Before ditching something, see if you can actually use it for another purpose.
- Start Composting Getting started with composting is easier than you think! First, check with your sanitation department, often times they collect green waste (compost, garden cuttings, etc) and can pick up your compost with their weekly pickups, making it super easy. If your sanitation department doesn’t collect, you can start collecting compost to be used for fertilizer in your backyard, or you can usually drop the compost at local community gardens. To collect, keep a small bin in your kitchen (with a green waste bag) and toss all extra food waste that you have.
- Ditch Single Use Plastic This tip will also save you a lot of money. Instead of reaching for plastic bags, purchase reusable food storage bags or use glass Tupperware. Purchase a water bottle (or use bottles you already have) to stay hydrated throughout the day and reduce the temptation to purchase a plastic water bottle on the go - same goes for coffee cups! Always bring your own bags when shopping and use cloth napkins and cleaning rags instead of paper towels.
Incorporating eco-friendly practices into your everyday life doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive. Small changes can add up to make a big difference in reducing your carbon footprint and protecting the environment for future generations.
Written By: Pine & Palm Home
Photography By: @preciousplasticmelbourne
