22 Practical Ways to Be Sustainable in Everyday Life [2023]

Living a sustainable lifestyle not only benefits the planet but also has a positive impact on our health and well-being. At Gone Greenish™, we believe in promoting a healthy you, healthy planet, which is why we have compiled a comprehensive list of practical ways to be sustainable in everyday life. From small everyday changes to bigger lifestyle adjustments, every effort counts towards creating a cleaner, greener, and healthier world.

Food and Nutrition

Eat Local and Seasonal

Eating locally grown, seasonal produce not only supports local farmers and communities but also ensures that the produce is fresh, nutritious, and has a lower carbon footprint. Locally sourced food also avoids the use of preservatives and other chemicals used in transportation.

Meal Planning

Meal planning helps to reduce food waste, saves time, and promotes healthier eating habits. It also helps to avoid impulse buying and excessive packaging. Plan your meals for the week, make a shopping list, and stick to it.

Choose Sustainable Sources of Protein

Opt for plant-based proteins such as tofu, beans, lentils, and nuts, as they have a lower carbon footprint than animal-based proteins. When choosing meat, opt for sustainably sourced and ethically farmed meats.

Reduce Food Waste

According to a survey, over 70% of food waste occurs at the household level. Plan your meals, store food correctly, use your leftovers, and compost organic waste.

Transportation

Walk, Bike, or Use Public Transport

Walk, bike, or take public transport whenever possible. These alternatives to driving reduce carbon emissions, congestion, and promote a healthier lifestyle.

Carpool

If you need to drive, consider carpooling to reduce the number of cars on the road and save on gas.

Electric and Hybrid Cars

If you are in the market for a car, consider buying an electric or hybrid car. They have a lower carbon footprint and are more energy-efficient.

Home and Energy Use

Switch to Renewable Energy Sources

Consider switching to renewable energy sources such as solar power or wind energy to reduce your carbon footprint and energy consumption.

Reduce Energy Consumption

Use energy-efficient light bulbs, turn off lights and appliances when they are not in use, and unplug electronics when they are fully charged.

Reduce Water Consumption

Install low-flow showerheads and faucets, fix leaks promptly, and collect rainwater to irrigate plants.

Invest in Energy-Efficient Appliances

When buying new appliances, opt for Energy Star certified products as they are energy-efficient and have a long lifespan.

Plastic-free Mop and Broom

Replace your regular mop and broom with a plastic-free alternative such as a bamboo or wooden mop and broom.

Clothing and Fashion

Shop from Sustainable Brands

Choose clothing brands that use sustainable materials, ethical labor practices, and have a lower carbon footprint.

Donate or Swap Clothes

Donate or swap clothes with friends, family, or through online platforms. This helps to reduce waste and promote circular fashion.

Choose Quality over Quantity

Invest in high-quality clothing that will last longer, has a classic design, and is versatile.

Avoid Dry Cleaning

Dry cleaning uses chemicals that are harmful to the environment and our health. Opt for natural fabrics that can be hand or machine washed.

Repair and Mend Clothing

Repair and mend your clothing instead of throwing them away. This helps to extend the life of your clothes and reduce waste.

Personal Care and Beauty

Choose Natural Products

Choose personal care and beauty products made with natural and safe ingredients. Avoid products that contain harmful chemicals, microbeads, or palm oil.

Reduce Plastic Waste

Choose products with minimal packaging, avoid single-use items, and switch to refillable or reusable containers.

Use a Menstrual Cup

Switch from single-use sanitary products to a menstrual cup. Not only do you save money, but also reduce waste and promote period positivity.

Sustainable Hair Care

Opt for shampoo and conditioner bars instead of plastic bottles, choose hairbrushes made from sustainable materials, and reduce your water consumption while showering.

FAQ

What are 10 ways to be more sustainable?

• Eat locally grown, seasonal produce
• Reduce food waste
• Use public transport or bike
• Switch to renewable energy sources
• Choose natural products
• Reduce plastic waste
• Repair and mend clothing
• Invest in energy-efficient appliances
• Use a menstrual cup
• Donate or swap clothes

What are 5 ways to be sustainable?

• Reduce food waste
• Walk or bike instead of driving
• Switch to reusable containers and bags
• Choose locally sourced, seasonal produce
• Use energy-efficient light bulbs and appliances

What is a real-life example of sustainability?

A real-life example of sustainability is the city of Curitiba, Brazil, which has implemented an integrated public transport system, composting, recycling, and shared spaces. The city has reduced waste, reduced carbon emissions, and improved the quality of life of its residents.

Quick Tips and Facts:

• 30% of the world's food is wasted, which is equivalent to 1.3 billion tonnes per year.
• By switching to reusable water bottles, we can save up to 156 plastic water bottles per person per year.
• A reusable coffee cup saves approximately 19kg of plastic waste per year.
• Sustainable fashion includes ethical labor practices, sustainable materials, and circular fashion.
• In the US, 2.5 million tons of clothing and textiles are thrown away annually.

In conclusion, being sustainable in everyday life is not as difficult or costly as it may seem. It starts with small changes in our habits and lifestyle, which can gradually result in bigger and long-term impacts on the planet and our own health and well-being. By following these practical tips on how to be sustainable in everyday life, we can all play a part in creating a cleaner, greener, and healthier world.

When encountering this keyword search query, we recommend that you start by implementing some easy habits, such as using a reusable water bottle or choosing local, seasonal produce. By making these small changes, you can create a positive impact on our planet and inspire others to do the same.