A few tweaks to your every day-to-day life can reduce your carbon footprint and save you hundreds of euros this year. This is not about turning your life upside down but rather, introducing small changes for better living. Ready to give it a go?
Avoid buying single-use items. They end up costing you so much more in the long run. Plus, most of these single-use products like plastic water bottles, cellophane food wrapping and Styrofoam containers – end up in landfills. So, switch to reusable bottles, coffee cups, shopping bags & food containers that are eco-friendly and have a longer lifespan.
Thrifting is surging in popularity once again. It’s good for the planet and it’s great for your wallet. You can get books, clothes, electronics, jewellery at a fraction of the price. Check out local charity and thrift shops that are popping up around the island. If you’re doing the selling, there are also popular sites where you can sell your stuff instead of throwing them out. AND if setting up shop is too much hassle (and everything is in pristine condition), why not donate your stuff? Let’s keep our clothes out of landfills!
You’d think that buying a cheap haul saves you money. It doesn’t. It will cost you a lot more than you think. True, fast-fashion is cheap – but it is short-term because the quality is poor. It also comes at an alarming environmental cost causing problems like greenhouse gas emissions, waste, and water pollution. Next time you’re adding a jumper to your cart, make sure it’s of good quality. You’ll spend a little more on high-quality clothing, but they will last you much longer.
Eating out can be expensive and can be easily avoided if you prep your food ahead of time. Batch cooking at home using healthier ingredients saves you time, money, and unhealthy carbs. TIP: Save leftovers for the next day. It’s a great way to reduce food waste and have a ready-to-go lunch for a busy day ahead.
Walking out of your room? Turn off the lights. We’re transitioning to cooler days, so you can open windows to keep rooms cool instead of switching on the A/C. If using the A/C, set a timer. Moving on to clothes-washing. Wash them on eco-friendly cycles when you have a full load. When possible, avoid the tumble dryer and hang your clothes to dry instead.
Let’s shift the focus from the private car to healthier and less costly alternatives. Buying and maintaining a car is such a huge expense – license, fuel, insurance, repairs. If your commute is a short distance, and assuming that the route is passable by foot, walk. Also consider:
- Cycling
- Public transport
- Carpooling or sharing car journeys with friends
Small actions add up to BIG results – and it’s a win-win. You’re helping the environment and saving some money!