Getting Started on Sustainable Living

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‘Sustainable Lifestyles are considered as ways of living, social behaviors and choices, that minimize environmental degradation (use of natural resources, CO2 emissions, waste and pollution) while supporting equitable socio-economic development and better quality of life for all.’ 

- UNEP

Have you ever learned about renewable energies during your physics class? Or renewable resources during geography? This all links to sustainability: the ability to replenish a certain resource over a long period of time without it depleting. As passionate environmentalists, we love the word ‘sustainable’! Whether it’s regarding sustainable materials that source the clothes we wear or how sustainable our food is, us environmentalists live and breathe sustainability!

What does living sustainably look like?

Living sustainably is simple, and these seemingly small changes build up to create a more sustainable and eco-friendly life, making you feel great about your impact on the planet.

Energy efficiency that works

Switch to LED bulbs and unplug electronics when you're not using them—this simple habit slashes your energy consumption instantly! Adjust your thermostat by 2-3 degrees and embrace air-drying your clothes instead of using the dryer. Turn off that tap while brushing your teeth and take shorter showers. These small changes add up to significant savings on your utility bills while helping the planet!

Smart consumption habits

Buy less stuff, period! When you do purchase items, choose durable products that can be repaired rather than replaced. Embrace your local "buy nothing" groups and donate items you no longer use. Fill your reusable bags with products from eco-conscious companies that use minimal packaging. Buy only what you'll actually eat and transform those food scraps into nutrient-rich compost for your garden.

Green transportation choices

Walk, bike, or hop on public transport whenever possible—your carbon footprint and your wallet will thank you! Combine errands into single trips to maximize efficiency. If you need a car, choose the most fuel-efficient option that meets your actual needs, not your imagined ones.

Water conservation

Fix leaks immediately and install low-flow fixtures throughout your home. Collect rainwater for your plants and run full loads in your dishwasher and washing machine. Every drop saved contributes to preserving this precious resource!

The biggest transformation happens when you shift from asking "what can I buy?" to "what do I actually need?" Sustainable living thrives through subtraction, not addition!

The endless benefits of living sustainably.

There are many reasons why sustainability is important beyond just saving the environment. It enables our planet to be cleaner and healthier by reducing pollution and conserving natural resources. It's good for health purposes, with clean air, healthy food, and exercise. And all that while saving your pocket—energy efficiency and waste reduction mean lower utility bills. The simplicity of lifestyle increases life quality without needing to spend meter by meter and dollar by dollar to furnish ourselves with gadgets and gizmos that carve out time and eat up money.

Other benefits of sustainable living include support for local economies by creating jobs in the green marketplace and offering much better economic resilience. This helps significantly reduce dependence on fossil fuels, thus combating climate change. It also maintains biodiversity by preserving natural habitats. Such practices make communities stronger and more resilient to future environmental challenges. It is ethical because it supports fair trade and social justice, allowing for better working conditions across the globe. Ultimately, it not only helps provide a safe environment to live in but also educates and inspires other people to join in and share the preservation of our planet for generations to come.