How to shop sustainably
We buy things often and many times without regard for the environment. Fast fashion and the use of plastic in packaging has wreaked havoc on our world, but is it time to look at ways we can shop more sustainably? Below are some ideas on how to shop ethically and sustainably and reduce your carbon footprint in the world.
Why is it important to shop sustainably?
Sustainable brands focus on being kind to the environment, so using quality materials made to last and choosing to shop sustainably means you can reduce your waste and clothing (which also saves you money too!)
How to shop sustainably on a budget
The most sustainable way to shop on a budget is shopping second-hand, but if that is not an option, lots of new brands are taking a more sustainable approach to their production. A good rule of thumb when considering how to shop more sustainably is to look into the details the brand provides, which should be set out clearly on their website.
Look at the material
From animal leather made to synthetic material derived from plastic, there are many materials that can be used in your clothing that have an environmental impact on the earth. But how do you shop sustainably for clothes and avoid these kinds of materials? Fortunately, there are some brands that are taking notice of how their clothes are made.
When you want to shop more sustainably, check out options for vegan shoes and clothing, so you can avoid causing harm to the planet and animals. Look into how the brand design and produce their products. How much water do they consume and what are the harmful polluting agents that are emitted from the manufacturing process? Sustainable companies use recycled materials, meaning they don’t need new raw materials and that greatly reduces the product’s environmental impact.
Buy from companies that care about sustainability
Knowing where you buy your clothes from and understanding the manufacturing practices of brands are as important as understanding the materials in your clothing. Most companies that are creating environmentally friendly clothing and shoes are going to care about sustainable habits, but it’s always wise to do your research before purchasing.
You may love a particular dress, but is it good for the planet? Even the distance of the factory from where you buy your clothing matters, as transportation affects our world as well. Who makes their clothes? Where does the factory come from?
Shop package-free goods
From your conditioner to the soap you use to clean your body or wash the dishes, so much of what we use frequently is packaged in cardboard or plastic. With shopping sustainably, it’s not just about your clothes, but also everything else you may need in your home.
Fortunately, there are some great stores out there that offer non-packaged goods, whether you’re shopping sustainably online or in-store.
Grow your produce
Another way to shop sustainably and reduce plastic use is not to shop at all, except for the seeds you need to grow your own produce. This may seem impossible if you don’t have a backyard, but did you know you can grow produce at home?
It may take some trial and error to get it down, but before you know it, you could grow your own food to eat, thus avoiding the shipping and packaging of the fruits and vegetables you consume. Growing and making your own food can be a lot healthier for you and your family as you can massively limit transportation and preservation chemicals.
How to grocery shop sustainably
Can you shop sustainably for grocery? Absolutely! When you shop online, look for brands that broadcast their plan for stocking sustainable food. Offline you can look in the high street as traditional butchers and greengrocers tend to source locally for fresher produce. Farmers’ markets and farm shops stock the freshest food, as you’re buying as close to the source as possible. Also, eating seasonally is not only cheaper but more environmentally friendly because the fruit and veg are sourced naturally with limited pesticides from importation.
How to shop sustainably for clothes – buy durable, timeless items
Buying new clothes can sometimes be an addiction, with people filling up their closets with things they don’t use. How can fashion be more sustainable though?
Shopping sustainably may mean taking an honest look at the way you buy your shoes and clothing.
Instead of shopping around for quick, cheap items, sustainable fashion means taking the time to make sure you shop sustainable clothing that will last and withstand the test of trends while reducing carbon emissions. Consider shopping at online thrift stores, where you can find used items in good condition. Shopping at thrift stores isn’t only affordable, it’s also a sustainable way to find long-lasting items you’ll be able to wear for years to come.
Taking care of the way you purchase everything from clothing to sustainable home goods is important. From changing how you buy your shampoo and conditioner to learning how to grow some of your food in your backyard, minor changes can make a big impact on the world.
FAQ
What is circular economy?
“A circular economy is “a model of production and consumption, which involves sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing and recycling existing materials and products as long as possible”.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Circular_economy
What is green shopping?
“Green shopping involves learning how to buy smartly and keeping environmental considerations in mind. Here are some useful eco-friendly shopping tips: Check if the item is ‘really’ or ‘urgently’ required. May be you do not have an immediate use or can postpone it to any later date”
https://www.ecomena.org/green-shopping
What are some effective waste management ideas?
You can find some great ideas here.
How do small independent clothing stores get their clothes?
There are plenty of independent sustainable fashion brands which offer something new but are still sustainably stylish. You can find more information here: https://qr.ae/pGz29h
How to shop sustainably online
Online shopping is taking over, especially after the pandemic forced people indoors. But, it might be difficult to know where to shop sustainably online.
When shopping online think about products that are second-hand or use sustainable materials. You can read more information on this above.
How to shop sustainably on amazon
When you shop online at Amazon look for the ‘Use the Climate Pledge Friendly filter‘ but also search for terms like recycled, zero waste, organic, cruelty-free, or energy efficient too.
Shopping sustainably doesn’t mean you have to cut out everything you love, but if shopping can also mean saving the planet too, wouldn’t that be a better choice? It’s time to think smarter and safer so our future generation can enjoy our beautiful world too!
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