Most people want to live a little more eco-consciously, and it’s no wonder why. With news that we are already seeing the disastrous impacts of climate change and plastic pollution, it’s only natural to want to do anything you can to help fight against it. So how do you make normal purchases a little more eco-friendly? Here are just a few ways to do this.
Buy used
Used or second-hand items already exist, so their impact on the planet is much smaller than when you buy something new. It’s for this reason that buying in this way can really reduce things like your overall carbon footprint. One of the best ways to live more sustainably is to buy fewer things. This can be difficult, though, as sometimes life throws situations at you where buying something is necessary.
The second-hand market has boomed in the last few years alone, and the previous taboos surrounding it have well and truly faded away. You can buy so many things second-hand that will do you just as well as if you bought new.
In fact, many second-hand items may be better quality than the newer versions you would normally buy. This is certainly the case when it comes to clothing, where a fast-fashion piece won’t last anywhere near as long as a second-hand designer alternative.
Borrow or rent
You may be surprised at just how much you can rent or borrow. From household and gardening appliances you may only need now and again to clothing you need for a big event, the borrowing industry is certainly growing.
There are so many sites that allow you to rent different things and can save you money in the long run, especially if it’s something you might not use a lot. If you don’t want to rent, why not ask a friend or family member to borrow whatever you need and return the gesture when they require something from you?
Make it last
Whether you buy second-hand or do decide to buy new, making your purchase last is such an important part of living more sustainably.
When you make something last, you ultimately buy less as you don’t replace it as often. Buying a higher quality item can help with this as they usually last longer than cheaply made alternatives.
For example, if you’re looking for a new laptop for your job, getting one that you can rely on year after year is your best bet for making the purchase that much greener. There are so many high-quality Work Laptops that suit your professional needs.
Recycle
When making a purchase, you probably aren’t thinking about how you’re going to get rid of it in that very instance. This time does come around, though, and it’s important to dispose of whatever you’ve purchased properly.
Following the first few steps can make a purchase more sustainable, but getting rid of it properly can really be the cherry on the cake.
Is it a piece of tech? Find out if you can repair it and give it to someone who will use it? Perhaps it’s clothing? Why not donate it or turn it into something else? Maybe it’s a product you buy all the time? Find out how and where you can recycle it.