As individuals, we often feel powerless in the struggle against environmental issues. But one of the strongest ways to implement change is through our hidden influence as a consumer. Motivate the corporate powers at the top of the ladder by spending your money on eco-friendly products and services, and you’ll minimise your environmental impact.
Money talks! If everyone made a few tweaks to their spending, we could implement a dramatic change within the corporate landscape, and move towards a sustainable and environmentally responsible way of living.
Here are five simple ways to adjust your shopping habits for the good of the planet.
1 – Invest in Reusable Products
It can be tempting to grab the cheap (or free), disposable alternative, but these products are designed to have a very short lifespan. Products like disposable coffee cups, plastic bottles and bags are wasteful and unnecessary, and are a massive contributor to toxic landfills, global warming and ocean pollution. Rather than fuelling the culture of disposability, invest in a few durable items that you can use time and time again, such as reusable water bottles, coffee cups and carrier bags.
2 – Shop Second Hand
Buying pre-owned items means that you’re not funding the continuous manufacturing of new items. Only responsibly made, high quality clothing can be purchased and re-used many times, whereas cheap, fast fashion items aren’t made to last, and will likely be thrown away by their first owner. Charity shops, car boot sales, online auction sites, thrift stores and vintage fairs are all great places to find high quality items that have already stood the test of time. Pick up a bargain, and you’ll unearth a few one-off treasures that no one else owns.
3 – Choose Ethical Brands
There are plenty of brands out there doing great stuff for the planet while still fulfilling the needs of the consumer. Do a bit of research and find companies who are actively doing their bit to protect the planet and its inhabitants. Opt for brands that are certified as Organic, Fairtrade, Cruelty Free and Sustainably Sourced. Find quality clothing with a sustainable heart at Kidsbury.
4 – Tweak What You Have
Instead of replacing clothes and other items with brand new versions, why not customise what you already have? It’s a good way to be creative, while saving you money AND doing your bit for the planet at the same time. What’s not to love?
5 – Choose Quality Over Quantity
One of the most powerful things you can do as a consumer is invest in a few high quality products, and avoid cheap, disposable items. Our consumer culture spreads the message that continuous acquisition of material goods is the measure of success – and happiness. Rather than the traditional attitude of ‘make do and mend’, or investing in a few high quality items – particularly clothing – that last for years, we choose to buy a lot more than we really need. Before making a new purchase, ask yourself: is it really necessary? Do you actually NEED that bottle of fancy mineral water, that phone upgrade, or that tenth pair of cheap shoes? Rather than mindlessly buying things, invest in a select number of quality items, and wear out or repair what you already have. Reject the corporate propaganda, and spend your money on products that will really enhance your quality of life. You’ll be happier – and so will the planet.
There is always something you can do to help, and ethical shopping is one of the most powerful ways to make a difference. Big or small, every change you make will have an impact, and if everyone makes the effort, we really could save our beautiful planet for future generations to enjoy.
Join the family at Kidsbury and discover quality fashion that is crafted with both your comfort and the health of – planet in mind.