Living in a way that’s better for the planet is better for you, too. And we know it can sound like a huge shift, but honestly, it really is much easier than it seems. A few small changes make a life easier on the wallet, the planet, and your conscious. Sound good? Let’s get to it.
Organic materialism
Making the switch from mass-produced synthetics isn’t just important, it also feels good. Start with your bedroom for an easy way into the lifestyle: get new bedding made with organic materials like cotton, and consider natural furniture made from solid wood or, easiest of all, opt for a wicker basket. Once you’re feeling more confident (and you will), you can spring for an organic mattress, a life-changing investment on all counts.
© Karina Tess
Good food
Eating sustainably means, of course, eating healthy. That’s no accident: what’s good for you tends to be good for the planet, too. So put the weekly fast food chain visit on the back burner and cook your own, healthy and nutritious food. Get a few cook books to inspire you — those of Yotam Ottolenghi are an easy and delicious option — and look at smarter grocery shopping as the sustainable gift that keeps on giving.
© Markus Spiske
Recycle, upcycle, bicycle
Things with cycle in the name are sure having a moment. Start by separating your trash (with what little you’ll have left after all of these changes to your lifestyle) into categories of paper, plastic and food waste. Pro tip: food waste can be used to start your own personal compost, which is like a low-maintenance, sustainable pet, sort of. If you don’t have one, invest in a bicycle and hit the streets the green way, too.
© Gemma Evans
Water is life
The way we consume water — bottled in disposable plastic — is one of the most useless and, at the same time, harmful things for the planet. So skip the supermarket water and get a refillable bottle. Keeping track of your hydration will be a breeze, as will drinking enough (big plus!) And you will no longer have to contribute to all those tons of plastic in our oceans.
© Naja Bertolt Jensen
Lights, lights, lights
One of the easiest, and the most economical way to start living green is by rethinking your lights. The way you use electricity makes a big difference not only to the world but to your finances, too. Switch out your bulbs for LED lights, which consume far less energy and last much, much longer, or in case you’re really set on changing your ways, invest in a solar setup. If that sounds like too much, you can always get some solar lamps for the garden to get the sunny feeling.
