If you haven't checked them out already, go read my beginner, intermediate, and advanced tips on how to live more sustainably without changing your life too much.
This is just the first (of I am sure will turn out to be many) bonus list I am compiling because honestly there are way more than 30 ways to live more sustainably and a lot of them honestly don't require you to change you life and most of them are also free.
1. Switch to bamboo toothbrushes:
You know all those toothbrushes you have been throwing away every 6-12 months over the last however-many-years of your life? Yeah, they're all still on this Earth and none of them are recyclable (to the best of my knowledge). There are many companies out there that make bamboo toothbrushes that can be composted and these are the ones that I use.
2. Learn how to mend items:
I recently learned how to sew and since then I have saved at least two pair of jeans, two shirts, and a pair of uniform pants. We also own some basic tools in order to fix larger objects. Moral of the story, fix what you have before throwing it out and buying something new.
3. Reduce your waste when you shop online:
All you have to do is email customer support and request that a note be added to your account to limit the amount of plastic in your packages when possible. I have successfully done this with amazon.
4. Turn your single use items into multi-use items:
I made an in depth video on YouTube but there are so many things in our daily lives that we can use over and over again but we are trained to throw them away immediately. Now, this is not the perfect solution but it is easy and saves a few resources.
5. Change your make-up routine:
Skip the single-use cotton balls or cotton pads to take off your make-up and use an old rag or t-shirt (or even make your own reusable pads) instead. You'd be surprised how much money and resources you will save by this simple switch. You can also use coconut oil as a natural and less wasteful make-up remover.
6. Host or attend a clothing swap:
I have seen people gather with their every day clothes and swap with one another instead of everyone throwing out their clothes and buying new ones. I have also seen this done with prom attire which also saves a ton of money.
7. Shop in bulk:
And I don't mean a designated bulk store where you bring your own containers and weigh them. I do not have access to this either. What I mean is buy the biggest item you can to prevent waste. Instead of buying 10 little bags of rice or individual cups of oatmeal, get a giant bag or larger container of oats. While this does take a little bit of investment up front, it does save money in the long run.
8. Encourage others to reduce their waste:
If you see a co-worker who gets a new plastic water bottle each day, encourage them to buy a reusable one and educate them more on our climate crisis and why they should make simple switches in their lives. And then refer them to my blog to learn more ;)
9. Boycott fast fashion:
And other unsustainable brands and markets. Do research and find out what brands you should be supporting. It could be as easy as you stop buying from company A and switch to company B. You'd be surprised at how many ethical companies are out there and who are also affordable. Don't break the bank to make this change. While it is important, so is being financially stable!
10. Don't buy something right away:
Think about whether or not you actually need something first I have fallen victim to this. But, you know what is more rewarding? Writing that item down and suddenly stumbling upon said item at the thrift store or on Facebook marketplace. Not only is it usually much cheaper it is also second hand and you do not have to contribute to the waste cycle. My favorite (BRAND NEW) second hand items I have found because I did not buy them immediately are my sewing machine and my juicer.
11. Don't buy new books:
Find someone who will let you borrow it or use your local library. Libraries also have cookbooks, movies, language learning, magazines, and so much more FOR FREE! How great is that?
I hope you enjoyed these bonus tips about how to live more sustainably without changing your life. Low waste does not have to be expensive or unattainable. You can reduce your waste every single day through little changes here and there.
-Emma
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