Environmental sustainability is an increasingly pressing issue and we can all strive to be a little more earth friendly in our day to day lives. However, in our hustle and bustle society, that can be a little difficult. So here are a few easy swaps that will help our earth, and in the long run, your wallet!
Reusable Shopping Bags
This is a super easy swap because most of your favorite stores have reusable totes near the cash register and there’s a good chance you already own some. Take it to the next level by also picking up some reusable produce bags like these ones from Amazon. These easy to carry bags don’t add any weight to your produce and encourage you to buy groceries plastic-free.
Plus, most stores now give you a small discount if you bring in your own reusable bags so it’s a win-win!
Soap Nuts
Soap nuts are tiny little dried fruits that act as a natural laundry detergent. They’re great for doing laundry because all you do is throw a few into a small canvas bag, that will come with your purchase, and toss that into the laundry machine. They can be used for a few washes and then composted when they’re no longer shiny. Pick them up at a local co-op or online from retailers such as Green Virgin Products or Amazon.
Bee’s Wrap
Bee’s Wrap is basically reusable saran wrap. Keep your food fresh by wrapping in these little cloths that can be washed with lukewarm water when you’re done. This is becoming an increasingly popular product and is on par with other reusable food storage that can be found all over in stores like Target or the Dollar Store.
Bar Soap
Bar soap comes in little or no packaging, making it a much more sustainable option for washing your hands and body. Plus, you can pick up little sleeves for your soap to make it a little less slippery and a lot more user friendly. Check out these affordable ones from Etsy.
Coffee Mugs
Buying a reusable travel mug for coffee, tea, water, soda, or whatever else you may want to drink on the go is a great way to reduce the amount of waste being contributed to the landfills. You can find them all over at a huge range of prices to meet every budget. Plus, most coffee shops will give you a small discount for bringing in your own mug!
Reminder: A lot of these items are swaps for one-use plastics and materials. If you already own some of these less sustainable items, it is important to use them up or donate them before replacing them so that our waste isn’t for no reason!