It takes a lot of work being green. I’m not patting myself on the back here, just stating a fact. It takes thought, planning, and investment. Where do you start? When will you end? It’s more of a journey than a project – so if you’re reading this, well done for making it this far!
Over time I’ve swapped a lot of things for more sustainable alternatives. However, I wouldn’t say I took the easiest path when doing it – there are many things I should have done first, ones that make a big different and don’t take too much effort either.
So, upon reflection, I’ve decided to make a list of my top five sustainability swaps – these are the first things I would recommend to anyone looking to be more green, save money, and also look after our planet too!
1. Swap to organic
My first port of call is moving to more organic foods. Organic certification (in the UK, this is from the Soil Association) guarantees food is not exposed to pesticides, meaning it is closer to nature, better for the environment, and better for your health. I know organic food now comes at a premium, so try swapping for fresh produce that’s in season and only the ‘dirty dozen’.
2. Swap to an ethical energy provider
This is one of my latest conscious living finds, and I don’t know how I didn’t look into it sooner. Utilities are one of the most expensive things in my life (ignoring my astronomical London rent) so the more ethical they can be the better. Brighter World Energy is an energy provider that is aiming to stop energy customers from being overcharged, while also giving clean sustainable energy to people in the remotest parts of Africa. For every 2000 customers that join them, they build a solar powered grid in a remote village in need like the one in the photo. Sounds like a win-win to me!
3. Swap to reusables
You may have heard that there’s a new reusable in my life, and I’m not ashamed to say that at 24 I am excited about having a lunch box. This is the best thing for me! For too long, I’ve been making shoddy salads or buying food out for lunch every day rather than bring in food from home. My new lunch pot and cutlery sit well alongside my KeepCup and I have to say, I’m saving money as well as reducing my waste.
4. Swap to rechargeables
Alongside reusable items, have you thought about rechargeable items? While the technology sector remains a difficult field to navigate when being sustainable, there are a few options out there. I’m a big fan of my rechargeable batteries and charger, as well as electric razor that’s charged by the mains.
5. Swap to public transport
My final point is probably my most underrated one – public transport. I use public transport almost every day, and I genuinely enjoy it. London buses are surprisingly clean, many are hybrid or electric, and they transport hundreds of people in one vehicle every day. The tube and trains are the same, although I have to admit, a little grubbier. Either way, they’re a low impact way of travelling (unless you can walk or cycle, which I do whenever I can). And this is coming from someone with a driver’s licence too. If in doubt, take a look at this ‘waste of space’ photo…
This post is sponsored by Brighter World Energy.