The term sustainability or sustainable has always fascinated me. It is a term the companies are using today as a marketing tool, a way of proofing to the world that they are doing something for the Environment.
Definitions include:
The ability to be sustained, supported, upheld, or confirmed.
The quality of not being harmful to the environment or depleting natural resources, and thereby supporting long-term ecological balance.
In 1987, the UN Brundtland Commission defined sustainable development as “meeting the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.”
But is what most people call sustainable really sustainable or just another way of gaining on the competition. How green is your green?
Many products are available to assist in sustainable living by promoting the principles of “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.” Here are some examples for each category:
Reduce:
Reusable Water Bottles: Invest in a durable, reusable water bottle to reduce the need for disposable plastic bottles.
Cloth Shopping Bags: Use reusable cloth or canvas bags instead of single-use plastic bags.
Food Storage Containers: Choose reusable containers made of glass, stainless steel, or silicone to reduce reliance on disposable plastic wrap.
Compost Bins: Composting reduces food waste and produces nutrient-rich soil for gardening.
Reuse:
Secondhand Clothing: Shop at thrift stores or online platforms for secondhand clothing and accessories.
Mason Jars: These versatile glass jars can be used for food storage, canning, and even drinking glasses.
Refillable Cleaning Products: Look for cleaning products that come in refillable containers to reduce packaging waste.
Reusable Coffee Cups: Invest in a reusable coffee cup or travel mug to avoid disposable cups from coffee shops.
Recycle:
Recycling Bins: Proper sorting and disposal of recyclables start with having the right recycling bins at home.
E-Waste Recycling Services: Many companies offer e-waste recycling programs for old electronics.
Recycled Paper Products: Choose products like notebooks and toilet paper made from recycled paper.
Upcycled Furniture: Purchase furniture made from reclaimed or upcycled materials to give new life to old items.
These are just a few examples, and there are many more sustainable products available for reducing waste and living more environmentally friendly lifestyles. When shopping, look for products with eco-friendly certifications or labels to ensure they meet sustainable standards.
Sustainable living can be achieved through various practices and lifestyle choices. Here are some key ways:
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Minimize waste by reducing consumption, reusing items, and recycling materials whenever possible.
Energy Efficiency: Use energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, and consider renewable energy sources like solar panels.
Sustainable Transportation: Opt for public transit, carpooling, biking, or walking to reduce your carbon footprint.
Conservation: Conserve water by fixing leaks, using low-flow fixtures, and being mindful of water use.
Sustainable Diet: Choose locally sourced, organic, and plant-based foods to reduce the environmental impact of your diet.
Minimalism: Simplify your possessions and lifestyle to reduce consumption and clutter.
Eco-friendly Products: Purchase eco-friendly and sustainable products to support responsible production practices.
Renewable Resources: Support renewable resources such as wind, solar (solar panels and an inverter), and hydropower for electricity and heating.
Reduce Single-Use Plastics: Minimize the use of single-use plastics by opting for reusable (
Sustainable Gardening: Practice eco-friendly gardening techniques, like composting and using native plants.
Conscious Consumption: Make informed choices about the products you buy and their environmental impact.
Green Building: If building or renovating, consider sustainable building materials and energy-efficient designs.
Community Involvement: Get involved in local environmental initiatives and support sustainable practices in your community.
Education and Advocacy: Stay informed about sustainability issues and advocate for positive change in your local and global communities.
Remember, sustainable living is a journey, and small changes in everyday life can make a significant difference over time. I will explore each of the points above in the following blog posts.
