There are so many ways we are being encouraged to limit our impact upon the planet. Although on an individual level, it might feel as if any changes will hardly make a difference when global corporations are failing to do their part, if everyone can adapt just slightly to be more considerate of the environment, things will start to improve. Here are a few ways you could start to shift your lifestyle to be more sustainable and help protect our planet.
Don’t Rush Yourself
When you read about climate change, environmental damage, and food shortages, it can be overwhelming and discouraging. You might feel as if the problem is so big that you need to change everything about your life all at once or not at all. This isn’t the case. You can be more patient with yourself than that. Small steps in the right direction and building good habits that you can maintain are far more sustainable than drastic changes you might eventually give up on.
Choose Plant Products Over Animal Products
One significant yet manageable way to change your life to be more sustainable is to reduce the number of animal products you consume. This might sound like a big change, especially if you enjoy eating meat regularly. However, by being more conscious about where your food and perishable goods come from, you can help reduce the harm caused by greenhouse gases and deforestation. Start by swapping meat for fish – you can find delicious options at sandysfish.net. If you don’t mind the difference in taste, choose dairy-free milk such as oat or soya. You don’t need to become a devout vegan overnight, but these little substitutions will make a big difference.
Reduce Single-Use Items
Try to avoid buying items that come in disposable packaging. Opt for loose fruit and vegetables instead of ones sold in plastic. Even recyclable packaging isn’t as miraculous as it’s purported to be. This might involve being more considerate about what you buy and how often you shop.
Shop Wisely
Make sure you research as best as you can the origins of your items before you buy them. Ethical companies do exist, but they are often shouted down by popular and less ethical brands due to marketing costs. Save up for items rather than buying many all at once. This way, you’ll not only help protect the planet from unnecessary waste, but you’ll also have possessions that last longer and are made with better quality materials.
Make Do With What You Already Have
Instead of rushing out to replace something worn out or slightly broken, teach yourself the basics of repair and DIY. Learn how to sew to fix your old clothes and figure out the fundamentals of carpentry in case your furniture needs tweaking. You can find helpful videos and instructions online for almost every possible repair need. Not only will you be better able to care for the possessions you already own – therefore avoiding overconsumption – but you’ll also have the satisfaction of adding to your skills.
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