Five Areas To Focus On For Sustainability

As we approach the end of the year, I thought that I would write a little list for those who want to live in a greener, more ethical and more sustainable way in 2021.

Of course, there are plenty of small steps that we can all take to care for people and planet. But if you really want to make a difference, here are five areas to focus on when making small and sustainable changes in your life:

Food

Grow your own – even if it is just a little. Eat less meat, or go meat free. Buy local and seasonal produce. And make sure the food you eat does not contribute to damaging systems. Buy only what you really need. And eat all you buy.

Cleaning and Beauty

Choose natural and eco-friendly products. Read labels. Reduce plastic and try to think about ways to bring less plastic into your home. Consider making your own natural cleaning and beauty products as one zero waste strategy.

Clothes

Read labels. Every time you buy, make sure you understand materials and know what you are really buying. Create a capsule wardrobe of long-lasting pieces made from natural materials. Choose second hand, and make do and mend. Repurpose old clothing to make something new. Donate or gift items you no longer want or need.

Travel and Transport

Choose slow travel whenever you can. Walk and cycle. Think carefully about where, when and how you travel. And when choosing to get away, consider staying closer to home.

Tech and Electronics

Don’t buy into automatic upgrades. Don’t fill your home with gadgets and devices that you don’t really need. Choose tech and electronics that are built to last, with as high a proportion of recycled and recyclable materials as possible. Recycle, gift or donate items you no longer want or need through specialist recyclers.

Of course, these are just a few things that you can do. There are plenty of other ways to make a big difference by making small changes in your life and acting in a more thoughtful and considerate way.