by Orianna
Photo by Boxed Water Is Better on Unsplash
If you are looking for easy ways to reduce your carbon footprint, below is a simple list of substitutions you can choose to make a big difference to the environment.
I include a few affiliate links for suggested alternative products (the pink items!). Ultimately, we want to buy less and use what we already have at home whenever possible. However, since buying things is part of life for humans, we can shift the things we buy on a regular basis to be more environmentally friendly.
Substitutions for More Sustainable Living
Mail Management
This: E-mail or online bill statements
Not that: Monthly printed and mailed statements
Food Storage
This: Glass storage containers
Not that: Plastic wrap, plastic storage bags, aluminum foil
Cleaning Up Spills
This: Reusable bamboo paper towels, old washcloths, t-shirts, or blankets
Not that: Paper towels
Cleaning In General
This: Non-toxic cleaning products (Method, Mrs. Meyers, DIY, etc.)
Not that: Bleach, harsh or toxic chemicals
To-Go Drinks
This: Reusable straws, no straw
Not that: Plastic straws
Garbage Management
This: Biodegradeable trash bags
Not that: Plastic trash bags
Shopping Bags
This: Reusable cloth bags
Not that: Plastic bags, paper bags
Online Orders
This: Group into as few shipments as possible (ex: Amazon “Monday” option)
Not that: Fastest shipping with multiple shipments
New Clothes
This: Sustainable brands (ex: tentree)
Not that: Fast-fashion that lasts one season
Cats
This: Natural cat litter
Not that: Traditional cat litter
Laundry
This: Line dry whenever possible
Not that: Using the dryer
Water
This: Nikken, Britta, boxed water, reusable copper water bottle
Not that: Plastic water bottles
Babies
This: Cloth diapers
Not that: Disposable diapers
Menstrual Products
This: Reusable pads or menstrual cup
Not that: Tampons, disposable pads
Gift Wrapping
This: Newspaper, recycled brown paper, leftover paper
Not that: Newly printed wrapping paper, bows
Old Electronics
This: Take them to Staples for recycling
Not that: Throw them in the trash
Vehicle Purchase
This: Used, hybrid or electric
Not that: Brand new gasoline
Batteries This: Rechargeable batteries Not that: Single-use batteries (if used, do not throw in trash — ensure proper disposal)
These are all easy changes that, when added up, really count. If you decide to make any changes, let us know in the comments.
Thanks for reading!
Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links. If you purchase something through the link, I receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. I appreciate your support!