There are simple and easy steps you can take to make an eco-friendly impact in your life.
Plastic waste is a big problem all around the world with a big chunk of it ending up polluting marine life and the environment. The UK is considered the second biggest plastic waste producer per capita in the world. We throw away a shocking 100 billion plastic packaging items per year, which equals 66 items per household per week.
Fortunately, it is not all doom and gloom. More and more awareness is raised about the issue and governments are now acting accordingly.
Waste management is a problem, but not the only one. Air pollution and global warming are also a catastrophe unfolding before our own eyes.
Because you are responsible citizens and consumers, I am sure you always look for ideas to help your ecosystem.
Here are a few simple suggestions you can apply to your daily life.
Reduce packaging
That sounds like an obvious option but we still use a lot of unnecessary plastic bags for shopping ( there's a reason why you are being charged for a bag at the supermarket ).
Arm yourself with canvas bags, use your containers at local shops (when possible ), and reuse them again and again.
Shop at your local market and look for loose fruits and veggies, they don't come in plastic packaging, you are helping a local business owner and you get a friendly service and produce. It's a win-win situation.
Recycle as much as possible
Nowadays, it is easier than ever to recycle your waste. Most households provide bins and crates for that purpose. Most consumer item packaging is now showing recycling guidelines. They are very easy to follow.
You also have access to many recycling facilities in supermarkets or out in the streets ( e.g glass bottles, clothing banks... ).
I know you are awesome at sorting your waste, if I can give some advice to skepticals, it would be to take it as a game.
Grow greener
I'm not saying you have to grow green and turn into Hulk!
Your home is your temple and the cleanest air you want to breathe would surely be inside it.
Plants are the best natural way to purify the air in a room, they can trap your carbon emissions ( heating, electricity, thermostat ) and reduce mould if you live in a place with a lot of humidity. Did I mention that they provide extra oxygen?
Caring for a plant can increase your mood and give you a sense of purpose, and they are beautiful to look at.
Shop less and better quality
One of the most sustainable ways to shop, especially for your wardrobe or jewellery, for instance, is to spend on better quality items that are durable and if possible locally.
Online shopping is great and convenient. Receiving your order shipped from a faraway country in a matter of days has never been easier, but long-distance shipments have a bigger carbon footprint. I let you imagine the return process as well!
As for shopping less, ask yourself a few times if you really need this item and if it's exclusive and unique.
Of course, it is not always possible to apply every single eco-friendly method to your life. Sustainability is a long-term process and by all doing a little, we can all create a positive impact on our society.
At Laverdure, I created a jewellery brand that is inspired by nature, and I would also love it to be reflected in the collections and minimise the impact on the planet. That's why the quantity of items is limited and I want to make sure to give you the best quality.
More styles are coming up soon, and I can say that more sustainable materials will be used, watch this space!
Stephane @ Laverdure
