First off, what is sustainable living?
Sustainable living is the lifestyle choice that focuses on reducing one’s demands for Earth’s resources. Simply put, a sustainable lifestyle is one that you can easily sustain over a long period. It has the least impact, generates the least amount of waste, and is not harmful to the planet if continued and repeated indefinitely. It means adopting a responsible way of life that fulfills the needs of the present without jeopardizing the ability of future generations to meet their needs.
Why do we need sustainable living?
An exponential increase in the population has led to the ever-growing demand for everything. The result is an increase in pollution, resource depletion, climate change, and global warming. An estimated one-fifth of the total population of the world is responsible for the consumption of a whopping 85% of the world’s natural resources. A study estimates that only 100 companies around the globe are responsible for around 70% of the world’s carbon emission.
In light of such reports coming in, ‘conscious consumption’ seems unachievable. It also makes us question our efforts. It is now or never. The steps that we take today in the present will create an impact. It will give future generations fair means for a good life. It will also create a better tomorrow for our planet and its other inhabitants. The task may seem daunting at first. But, as you continue to choose sustainability and incorporate sustainable habits in your everyday lives, it can become a way of life.
So, how do you embrace sustainable living?
BYOB
Bring your own bag! Whenever you go out for grocery shopping, a quick vegetable run, or even shopping at the mall, bring your own bags. Avoid using single-use polythene bags. Instead, invest in a durable shopping tote. You can also upcycle your old pants or any other sturdy fabrics into cute bags that you can carry with you at all times. It is a small step, but over time the number of polythene bags that you keep hoarding in some corner of the house will reduce and vanish.
Buy less
Online shopping platforms and influencer culture on social media create a market for products that we don’t even know we needed in the first place. Anytime you look at a dress or a pair of shoes, or if your favorite makeup brand is having a sale, stop, take a moment, and ask yourself if you need all those things. Don’t buy something just because it is on sale.
Unplug and switch off
Switch off the air conditioning and the lights before leaving the room. Switch off the appliances when not in use. Remove your chargeable gadgets from charging before calling it a night. Open up the curtains to enjoy natural lighting instead of switching all those lights on. Let the natural breeze in instead of turning the air conditioner on. Reducing the unabashed consumption of electricity will ultimately reduce carbon emissions as well.
Eat responsibly
Opt for local indigenous fruits and vegetables, and avoid imported exotic produce. Not only is it beneficial for you and your health, but also local farmers. Avoid eating processed and packaged foods. Food should come from farms, not from factories that generate chemical waste and emit greenhouse gases into the atmosphere.
Switch to cruelty-free makeup and skincare
Avoid makeup and skincare brands that perform animal testing. Switch to brands that source their ingredients ethically. Animals are an integral part of Earth’s eco-system. Ensure you do your bit to save them and their habitat.
Save water
This one is a no-brainer. Avoid wastage of water. Water is the most precious gift of our planet. Every single being relies on water for sustenance. Turn the tap off while brushing your teeth. Reduce the time you take in the shower. And, fix plumbing issues around the house. Every little action helps in the long run.
Reuse, repair, recycle, and upcycle
Try to get your faulty gadgets repaired instead of replacing them right away. Recycle and upcycle the stuff around your house and repurpose them into something else. The Internet is full of DIY ideas that reimagine and reuse almost everything. Give it a shot! Save Earth while making cutesy stuff for your house.
Use carpool, cycle, or public transport
Prefer carpooling over your car to commute to work if your workplace is far, use public transport if possible. If you live nearer, try to use a bicycle, or walk to work. It is a double win! You save the planet, and you get fitter.
