It's no secret that humans have been impacting the environment negatively for years now. We‘re starting to see the effects of climate change more and more, and it's only going to get worse if we don't do something about it. The good news is, each of us has the power to make a difference. And it doesn't have to be expensive!
Here are some tips for living sustainably without breaking the bank.
1. Shop Secondhand
One of the best ways to be sustainable is to shop secondhand. Not only do you keep items out of landfills this way, but you also save a ton of money. You can find just about anything secondhand these days, from clothes to furniture to electronics. Check out thrift stores, yard sales, and online marketplaces like Facebook Marketplace and Depop.
2. Bring Your Own Shopping Bags
If you forget your reusable shopping bags at home, it's not the end of the world. But if you make a habit of it, those plastic bags really start to add up! Just say no to plastic bags and instead keep a stash of reusable shopping bags in your car so you’re always prepared.
3. Compost Kitchen Scraps
You might not have room (or the desire) for a full-blown garden, but that doesn't mean you can't compost your kitchen scraps. Composting is great for the environment because it reduces methane emissions from landfills and enriches soil. Plus, it's totally free and easy to do! All you need is a small container with a lid and some worms (yes, worms!). Start by adding some shredded newspaper to your container for bedding, then add your kitchen scraps and worms. Keep everything moist but not wet, and in no time you'll have nutrient-rich compost for your plants.
4. Line Dry Clothes When You Can
If you have the space to do so, line drying your clothes is a great way to be sustainable AND save money on your energy bill. Just hang your clothes on a clothesline or drying rack inside or outside—sunny days work best—and let them air dry. If you don't have access to outdoor space, try setting up a drying rack near an open window in your home; just make sure it's not in direct sunlight or else your clothes will fade.
5. Walk or Bike Whenever Possible Instead of Driving
If you live close enough to work, go for a walk or ride your bike instead of driving. Walking or biking is not only better for the environment—it’s also great exercise! If
walking or biking isn't feasible for your whole commute, try parking at the outskirts of the parking lot so you get in some extra steps while running errands or heading into work.
6. Bring Your Own Water Bottle/Coffee Mug
Whenever you leave home for the day, make sure to bring along a refillable water bottle or coffee mug. This way, you can stay hydrated without wasting disposable cups or bottles—plus, most places will give you a discount if you bring in your own cup!
7. Invest In Reusable Menstrual Products
If you menstruate, there are lots of amazing reusable menstrual products available these days that are both environmentally friendly AND budget-friendly (not to mention much more comfortable than disposable pads and tampons!). Do some research online or ask friends for recommendations; once you find what works for you, stick with it! You'll save money in the long run and feel good knowing that you're helping reduce waste each month.
Living sustainably doesn't have to be expensive—in fact, it can even save you money! By shopping secondhand, using reusable shopping bags and menstrual products, composting kitchen scraps, line drying clothes when possible, walking or biking instead of driving whenever possible , and investing in a reusable water bottle or coffee mug ,you can help reduce your impact on the environment without breaking the bank .Try incorporating some of these tips into your everyday life
and see how easy (and affordable!) being sustainable can be!