On Living Slowly and More Sustainably

Buy less, buy better.

Fast fashion is a business model that produces inexpensive trendy clothing multiple times a year. Faster and cheaper is the name of the game, which has huge environmental and societal costs. Factories often use synthetic materials that perpetually shed microfibers (tiny pieces of plastic) and use toxic textile dyes that pollute clean water. Even cotton has a negative impact at this scale. Cotton requires an immense amount of water and pesticides, which stresses the environment and communities in developing countries. The rate of production in order to keep up with trends has resulted in literally tons of excess inventory and waste. And consumers don’t help, as they perpetuate a throw-away culture based on what’s hot now. Making matters worse, employees who fabricate the clothing are often underpaid, work in dangerous conditions, and are not provided with basic human rights. For example, research by Global Labor Justice found that female workers in H&M and GAP supplier factories have been abused, given low wages, forced into overtime, and work in poor conditions. One way to help is to discover your style and curate your wardrobe/home with special pieces that have longevity. Find and choose transparent brands that prioritize sustainable and ethical production. No brand is perfect but investing in good brands helps move us toward a greener future.

Support independent artisans and local small business.

In the United States, small business accounts for 99.9% of all businesses and generates approximately 1.5 million jobs annually, making their success vital to a healthy economy. Shopping at small businesses enables the payment of employees, utilities, rent, and other goods and services—money which is then recirculated into the local economy. To put it in perspective, for every $100 spent at a local small business, $43 goes back into the community versus $13 from a large corporation. Buying from small business is an investment in the future of your community and provides opportunities for those who need them. Numbers aside, independent artisans and small business owners work hard to create and curate unique products and spaces. And there’s something special about a handcrafted item made one-of-a-kind for you.

Ditch plastic and choose natural.

Plastic is everywhere. Its is used in everything from cheap single-use products like ketchup-packets and water bottles to clothing and household goods. This once-considered revolutionary material is devastating as it doesn't break down completely but rather becomes bits of micro-plastic. Plastic is so pervasive that “about 8 million metric tons of plastic waste end up in our oceans every year,” which creates a cycle that affects marine life and food we eat. While plastic holds a valuable place in human-life (IE computer parts, accessible goods, advancements in modern medicine, etc.), it’s important that we continue to innovate, create better solutions, and make better choices. Scientists are creating bio-plastic from plant crops and making them truly biodegradable. As a consumer, look for more sustainable options whenever you’re able. For example rather than purchasing plastic Tupperware, make the investment in more eco-friendly options like Stasher Bags or glass and bamboo storage jars. Also look for natural fibers as they are more absorbent, durable, insulated, hypoallergenic, and generally have a smaller environmental impact.

Bring your own bag.

Cutting out single-use plastic bags is one of the easiest changes you can make right now. Worldwide “more than 500 billion plastic bags are used each year” and only about 1% are returned for recycling. Even if the recycle rate was 100%, the issue of micro-plastics poses a large threat. By bringing your own bag you help decrease plastic pollution, lessen the demand for bags thus reducing production, and fewer animals will be affected; creating a healthier environment for everyone. Start today by getting in the habit of bringing your own reusable bags. The best produce bags are created by The Sunshine Series. And if you forget to bring bags? Opt to carry by hand or ask for a paper bag.

Plant native plants.

Native plants found naturally in a specific region are crucial for a healthy environment and community. Gardens that don’t have native plants become “an ecological desert for pollinating insects that are essential to our survival.” They provide “nectar, pollen, and seeds that serve as food for native butterflies, insects, birds, and other animals.” This symbiotic relationship creates the most sustainable landscape as native plants are less susceptible to pests and diseases, require less maintenance, need less water, and reduce air pollution. To discover native plants for your region you can visit the Native Plant Finder by the National Wildlife Federation.

Opt for organic whenever possible.

Food choice is one of the most important decisions you can make for your body and planet. Not only does it shape your health, it affects everything from the environment to the animals and farmers that inhabit the land. Choosing organic food ensures that no artificial fertilizers are used, healthier soil (that holds more carbon), higher animal welfare, no GMOs, and more resilient farms. Conventional agriculture often produces crops covered in toxic chemicals and can cause soil erosion, chemical runoff into water systems, and resistance to herbicides and pesticides. Studies also show that organic foods are more nutrient and antioxidant dense and have higher amounts of phosphorous, magnesium, and vitamin C. While it may not always be possible to go entirely organic, you can make the swap on some of the items you purchase. Many supermarkets have weekly deals on organic products that can be taken advantage of.

Compost and Grow your own food.

Growing and maintaining your own fruits and vegetables is not only satisfying and good for the planet but also saves money, reduces food contamination, keeps you active, increases vitamin D, and is more nutritious. Gardens can be big or small, and if you’re low on space or don’t have a yard, you can plant herbs in small pots or re-grow veggies from cuttings. When done cooking, the food scraps can be recycled back into the earth through composting. Food scraps are an important resource as they contain valuable vitamins and minerals that can be repurposed. When sent to the landfill, they are broken down without oxygen thus producing greenhouse gases. Composting “mimics nature’s method of decomposition, allowing organic material to break down aerobically,” which reduces landfill waste and greenhouse gas emissions. The end-result is a nutrient-rich soil that will increase soil stability, improve plant growth, reduce the demand for chemicals, improve drainage, and help retain moisture.