Small Steps to a More Sustainable Lifestyle

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the endless amount of information that's available about making your daily life more sustainable. If you're just starting out, it can be hard to figure out where to start. Even small steps can make a huge difference in reducing your carbon footprint.

This list aims to provide a small list of ways that you can reduce your environmental impact. It's also a good start to making your life more sustainable.

Shop Secondhand

The fashion industry accounts for over one-third of the world's greenhouse gas emissions, and it's estimated that 13 million clothing items are sent to landfills each week.

If you're not ready to commit to a whole lifestyle change, try implementing the secondhand first rule. Before you buy anything new, ask yourself if it's something that you could buy used.

Besides charity shops and resale sites, you can also find great deals on eBay, Depop, and Vestiaire Collective. These platforms allow people to swap and borrow clothes without the risk of them going to the landfill. They also prove that renting clothes is more than just for prom. It's also a great way to make your life more sustainable.

Reduce Meat Consumption

Although it's an ideal world for everyone to be vegan, there are still people who are not ready to completely give up on animal products. If you're still not ready to give up on meat, try going vegetarian or pescatarian. You can also try cooking vegetarian meals at home or reducing your meat consumption on a consistent basis.

According to the Independent, cattle farming contributes to climate change. By avoiding dairy products and reducing your meat consumption, you can help decrease the impact of this industry on the environment.

Reduce Energy Consumption

If you still hear your parents' voice telling you to turn off your lights when you leave the house, it's time to start listening. While technology has made it easier to clean up our homes, there's still plenty of room for improvement in our wasteful habits. One of the easiest ways to save money and reduce your energy consumption is by switching to an energy supplier that uses wind, solar, and hydro sources.

Switch to Sustainable Hygiene Products

In your bathroom, discard the plastic throw-away items and replace them with more eco-friendly alternatives such as bamboo toothbrushes, metal razors, and reusable bottles. Also, research the various products that you use and make sure that they're not tested on animals. For instance, try using products that contain natural ingredients instead of harsh chemicals.

Travel Less for Vacation

Although it's hard to give up on vacations, you don't have to give up on traveling to be more sustainable. There are plenty of places that you can visit that are accessible by car, train, or boat. If you're planning on traveling to a distant region, consider taking a road trip across the country or exploring a different area by train. It's also cheaper and easier to travel around Europe by train.

Avoid Crowded Tourist Destinations

Due to the number of tourists visiting various places around the world, the environment is struggling with the effects of this influx. To avoid overpopulation, try avoiding areas that you know are prone to experiencing issues with tourists. Also, avoid posting locations on social media.

Switch to Public Transportation

If you're still driving, try taking the train or bus to work instead. It's often cheaper and easier to travel by public transportation. If you have to drive, try carpooling with your friends and colleagues who live nearby. An added bonus of public transportation is that you can use that time for reading or listening to your favorite podcast!