In 2021, many of us are more conscious than ever of our collective responsibility to the planet. Plenty of countries and governments are re-evaluating their populations’ relationship with disposable products and single-use plastics; further, many ethical and environmentally-minded companies are increasingly aware of the need to reduce carbon emissions. But when we feel pessimistic about the Earth’s future, it can be difficult to see how one person or household’s actions can make a difference, and we become demotivated to do the right thing. If you would like to become a more ecologically-friendly consumer, and reduce waste in your home, but don’t know where to start, here are some simple solutions you can implement in your everyday life.
A journey of a thousand miles starts with a single step, and by making one or more of these changes, you can make a truly positive impact – which is good for planet, and good for the soul!
Shop with Waste Reduction and Recycling in Mind
The first step in waste reduction is to be mindful of what we bring into our homes in the first place. When buying groceries, cleaning products, clothes, and other assorted miscellanea, keep an eye out for items with packaging that you can either recycle or reuse. Instead of buying food that’s wrapped in single-use plastic, why not opt instead for a similar product packaged in materials you can rinse and recycle? And if your preserves or dessert comes in an aesthetically-pleasing glass jar, why not keep it for other foods, storage, or even decoration as a unique and original candle-holder or ash-tray? The less disposable waste you bring into your home, the less you’ll have to contend with.
