Easy Swaps for a Sustainable Lifestyle
- Bethany Zuchowski
- Feb 23
- 4 min read
Living sustainably doesn't have to be expensive or time-consuming. There are many changes you can make in your everyday life that have a major impact on the planet. Here are ten ideas for things you can swap out to reduce waste that don't require major sacrifices.
Reusable Water Bottle
79% of all plastic ends up in landfills, and single-use plastic water bottles are one of the largest culprits. To cut down on waste, switch to a reusable bottle that you can fill with tap water. Many places like offices and college campuses have water fountains making it easy to refill on the go. Filling a reusable water bottle with tap water could save you more than $17,000 over your lifetime. Just be careful not to fall into the trap of buying multiple bottles just because they are pretty or trendy; you really only need one!
Reusable Straws
Plastic straws from restaurants are another major source of waste. In 2015, a video of a sea turtle with a plastic straw stuck in its nostril went viral, prompting many to call for a ban on plastic straws. In response, companies like Starbucks and Disney promised to stop the use of single-use plastic straws. Alternatives like Bringing your own straw made from a material like metal or glass
Reusable grocery bags
Currently, 12 states have bans on single-use plastic bags, and hundreds of counties and municipalities have joined. Even if you don't live in an area that has banned plastic bags, switching to reusable bags can help prevent plastic from becoming litter or entering landfills. You don't need to go out and buy a new set of bags to start shopping; just use bags you already have around the house, like beach bags or tote bags.
Fabric Giftwrap
Furoshiki are a type of Japanese cloth used to wrap and transport goods. This traditional style of wrapping has inspired a modern zero-waste version. You can use old bedsheets, tea cloths, or fabric from the thrift store to wrap your presents. Alternatively, you could use the material to sew a bag with a drawstring that will fit oddly shaped gifts. As a bonus, the wrapping doubles as an additional present the receiver can either keep or re-gift.
Bar Soap
Ditch plastic bottles of hand soap and body wash for plastic-free solid soaps instead. Bar soaps are easy to find at any grocery stores or drug stores and their cardboard packaging is easily recyclable. For those wanting to take it a step further, brands like Kitsch and Ethique offer solid shampoo and conditioner bars.
Digital Books, Newspapers, and Magazines
Reading digital books, newspapers, and magazines instead of physical copies contributes to reducing paper consumption which in turn conserves trees, reduces waste in landfills, and reduces carbon emissions from production and shipping. On the financial side, digital editions of print publications often come at a lower cost or no cost at all, allowing readers to save money on subscriptions and purchases. If you still prefer the feel of a physical book, borrowing a copy from your local library not only removes the cost if you purchased it from a store, but you also support your local community.
Silicone Baking Mats
Swap parchment paper and aluminum foil for silicone baking mats. These non-stick mats are designed to be used in high temperatures and can be reused each time you bake cookies or roast vegetables, which will save you money in the long term.
Homemade Cleaning Products
Making your own cleaning products at home not only cuts down on the waste from plastic bottles but also protects you and your family from harsh chemicals that can be found in manufactured cleaners. These recipes provide a number of alternatives for different types of cleaners. Simply combine the ingredients and store them in a glass or reused spray bottle.
Silicone Food Storage Bags
Much like the silicone baking mats, silicone food storage bags offer a more sustainable option in place of single-use products. Instead of using single-use zipper bags, switch to a reusable silicone alternative. These durable bags keep your food fresh and unlike their single-use counterparts, they are often dishwasher-safe, microwave-safe, and freezer-safe. Like many of the other sustainable swaps on this list, they save money as you no longer have to repeatedly purchase the disposable versions.
Menstrual Cups and Reusable Pads
Menstrual cups and reusable pads offer many benefits in addition to their eco-friendliness. Unlike tampons, menstrual cups are made of body-safe materials which helps eliminate the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome that is associated with tampon use. In addition, menstrual cups can be used for up to 12 hours at a time, almost double the recommended four to eight hours for tampons. Reusable pads are often made from natural materials like cotton, making them healthier for the body. With proper use and cleaning, reusable period products are just as sanitary as disposable products, more cost-effective, and more environmentally sustainable.
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