Concern over how human activity damages the environment has grown in recent years. This is prompting people to re-evaluate their lifestyles and how they can reduce their impact on the planet.
Even though the issues are big and range from resource depletion, pollution to waste, we can all do something about it. It is overwhelming but there are easy actions we can do to lessen our environmental effect.
There are different ways to live more sustainably, but you need to choose what will work for you. The steps you take can be adapted to suit your individual lifestyle and circumstances.
Table of Contents
Top 7 strategies on how to live more sustainably
1. Energy
Reduce your energy consumption by turning off lights when they’re not in use. Switch off your electronics at the power socket end. Avoid standby modes.
Remember electronics can be repaired. Recycling should be the last option. If you are replacing your electronics, choose energy-efficient appliances. If you can, buy second hand appliances.
If you can change your energy provider, choose a green energy provider. A company that generates solar or wind energy is miles ahead of fossil fuel based supplier.
If it’s possible, get solar panels installed. Or maybe wind and ground heat technologies are available in your country. Choose based on your budget & convenience.
2. Water
First things first. Fix leaky taps. If your tap is dripping, call that plumber immediately. And do check if your loo has a leak.
Take shorter showers and reduce how often you fill that bath.
If you have a garden and/or live in a hot country, use drought-resistant plants. Turn off those sprinklers.
Read this blog post for lots more tips on this topic – 7 amazing ways to conserve water
3. Food
Support sustainable agriculture by purchasing locally-grown and organic foods.
Eat what you buy and always never shop on an empty stomach. But if you do have food waste, compost it. Don’t throw it in your landfill bin. Here are 4 tips to reduce your food waste: 4 Tips to reduce food waste at home
4. Waste
Like there are different kinds of waste (plastic, packaging etc), there are also different ways in which you might be contributing to waste.
Recycling should always be the last resort. Always repair, reuse and repurpose. Gift what you don’t want rather send it to landfill. Donate your old but wearable clothes, shoes and underwear to charitable organisations and refugee centres.
Everything seems to come in packaging these days. It’s hard to avoid, but not impossible. Here is an article I wrote recently on the topic – 3 ways to reduce packaging waste
And when you go out, don’t leave home without your cutlery, your reusable cup and water bottle. Want to know why? I have written another blog on this too – Plastic cutlery & eating out – eco issues
5. Transport
Consider ways to reduce your use of fossil fuels. If you drive a diesel car, switch to a petrol or an electric car as soon as possible. Drive less. Avoid short journeys in car. Carpool.
Use public transportation wherever possible. It does add time to your schedule especially if you live in a country where the government doesn’t invest in transportation infrastructure.
Walk or cycle instead of driving alone. Save money on transportation & gym fees.
Transportation with minimal or negative impact on the environment and human health is a sustainable option. This includes transport that are energy efficient, emit low or zero greenhouse gases, and do not contribute to air pollution.
6. Eco friendly products
Use environmentally-friendly products, such as those made from recycled materials or that are biodegradable. Choose other materials rather than plastic. Also, buy products with the least amount of packaging.
7. Voting
Support policies and laws that promote sustainability at the local, state, and central government levels. Work with your local government or organizations to promote sustainable practices and policies.
Remember, every little bit helps, so start with the changes that are easiest for you and work your way up from there.
