Written by: Emily Joswiak • August 3, 2022• Environment

Ways To Be More Sustainable While Shopping

Are you looking to make your shopping habits more sustainable and eco-friendly? These are a few easy ways to start and make a difference in the world.

Climate change is one of the most pressing issues of our time, and we all have a role to play in mitigating its effects. One way to do this is to be more mindful of the products we buy and how they impact the environment.

These are ways to be more sustainable while shopping and minimize your ecological footprint.

Opt For Secondhand Items

One of the best ways to shop more sustainably is to buy secondhand items instead of new ones. This habit extends the lifespan of products and keeps them out of landfills. When buying secondhand, inspect the item closely for any damage or wear and tear.

Try to Avoid Fast Fashion

The fashion industry is one of the biggest polluters in the world. “Fast fashion” refers to cheap, trend-based clothing produced quickly and in large quantities. This type of fashion often contains low-quality materials that won’t last.

As a result, it’s a significant contributor to textile waste. Try to avoid fast fashion brands and opt for higher-quality clothing that will last longer to shop more sustainably.

Support Sustainable Brands

Many sustainable brands are making an effort to reduce their environmental impact. When possible, support these brands over ones that have no sustainable practices in place.

Some sustainable brands use eco-friendly materials, such as organic cotton or recycled polyester. Others offset their carbon emissions or donate to environmental causes. Do some research to find brands that align with your values.

Buy in Bulk

Buying in bulk can help you save money and reduce packaging waste. When shopping for dry goods, such as grains, beans, and nuts, look for bulk bins where you can scoop out the amount you need.

You can also buy certain household items, like laundry detergent or toilet paper, in larger quantities. Buying in bulk often works out to be cheaper in the long run and generates less packaging waste.

Bring Your Own Reusable Bag

Bring a reusable bag to carry your purchases whenever you go shopping. Doing this will help you reduce your use of plastic bags, which can end up in landfills or as litter. Some materials, like nylon, aren’t biodegradable and can take centuries to break down.

Understanding polypropylene bags that use nontoxic dyes and consist of recycled materials is essential when trying to be sustainable.

If you forget your reusable bag, see if the store offers paper bags instead of plastic. Paper bags are more easily recyclable than plastic and will decompose faster if they end up in a landfill.

These are some ways you can be more sustainable while shopping. By making small changes to the way you shop, you can help reduce your impact on the environment. Every little bit counts! We all have a role to play in mitigating climate change.

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Last modified: August 3, 2022