As I get older, I’ve gotten more passionate about living a more sustainable lifestyle. That means I make sure what I do and the products I use daily have a smaller impact on our environment. Impact is unavoidable in the way we live. For example, we drive cars, which uses fuel, and we shop at grocery stores, which ship products around the world. I can make small changes to help reduce the use of natural resources and hopefully, make our world a safer and healthier place to live for me, others, and future generations.
Slowly, I’m finding ways to incorporate better habits into my life. It takes time, especially when the alternative is more convenient, but I think the long-term effects are worth it.
Here are four ways I’ve changed my habits to live a more sustainable lifestyle.
1. Lessen My Impact
The easiest way to live a more sustainable lifestyle is to lessen my impact. That means buying fewer things from the beginning. For the items I buy, I try to choose brands that are high quality, so they last longer, and that are sustainable, so I know how they are made and the impact that made on the environment. I also use reusable items like water bottles, dryer balls, and food storage containers. When I’m done with items, like appliances or clothes, they’re donated so maybe they get additional use before it makes it into a landfill. Our trash might disappear from our house, but all our waste goes to a landfill where it decomposes and pollutes the environment for a long time.
2. Use Safer Products
One thing I’m working on is finding products that are non-toxic, including make-up and household cleaners. I think this is the best way to make sure my body is as healthy as possible. I put on make-up every day and I like to keep the kitchen squeaky clean, so I need products that are safe to use.
For household cleaners, I’ve tried out a few products, and I like Art of Green because while it’s non-toxic (no harsh chemicals) and 98% naturally derived, it’s still tough on dirt, grease, and grime. I don’t have to settle for a cleaner that doesn’t work as well because I want something that is safe for sensitive skin. The bonus is how it smells! The citrus & white flowers smell good, but the lavender eucalyptus is my favorite!
- The multisurface spray is what I typically use with a rag on all the counters.
- For a quicker clean-up, the cleaning wipes make it convenient.
- The concentrated multisurface cleaner is perfect to refill the spray bottle or if I need to mix a different amount to clean the floors.
Art of Green is also at HEB, which makes it convenient to pick-up while I’m getting groceries. If you want to try Art of Green, here’s a link to a coupon for you.
3. Eat Local
I’m sure you’ve been following along my Local Monthly challenge this year. It’s been an interesting way to learn more about local farms and enjoy the delicious things they produce. I’ve visited farms and shopped at the farmers market at least once a month. It’s a win-win to support local producers! Read more about my project here.
4. Recycle and Compost
Our recycling bin is typically fuller than our garbage bin every week! Austin’s recycling program is fairly easy because all plastic, paper, and other recyclable items are put into the same bin. We frequently recycle mail, sparkling water cans, and packaging from food items.
We haven’t gotten our compost bin yet since we’re trying to time it with the start of our garden and Austin’s composting bins haven’t reached our zip code yet. Instead, we save compost items in our freezer to take to the farmers market. Texas Farmers’ Market allows you to contribute frozen scraps, so we save things like veggie and fruit scraps and eggshells. They turn the compost into soil for local gardens and farms. Read more about the composting program here.
Conclusion
I’m not perfect with all of these but I try my best to make a difference where I can. By being conscious of what I buy, use, and eat, I’m living a more sustainable life for myself and others.
Have you thought about incorporating sustainable habits into your life? What other things do you recommend I try?
This post has been sponsored by Art of Green. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Learn more at https://artofgreen.com.
Follow me on the Internet! You can find me on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Bloglovin’. You can also subscribe to the exclusive email list.
You might also like
