To achieve an overall positive impact, sustainability entails considering social, environmental, and economic factors across an item’s production cycle. When it comes to natural products, sustainability encompasses not just how components are sourced or how the product is made, but also the materials used in the manufacturing and post-production stages.
Indeed, sustainability has been ingrained in the DNA of many modern brands as a way of preserving the environment. This trend can be seen in the form of cosmetics, dietary supplements, and other personal care items that are made with plant-based or certified organic ingredients, use recycled materials, or come in eco-friendly packaging. Let’s take a look at some of the ways you can incorporate eco friendly products into your everyday routine.
Make a Gradual Transition to Natural Cosmetics
Don’t feel like you have to make an overnight switch to using all-natural cosmetics. If you’re not ready to let go of your favourite products just yet, start by slowly incorporating more natural items into your beauty routine.
Focus on replacing those items that you use most often, such as face wash, moisturiser, lip balm and organic deodorants. You can also look for products that serve multiple purposes, such as a natural oil that can be used as both a facial cleanser and makeup remover. Here are some other things you can do to make the transition to natural cosmetics easier:
Try Before You Buy
It’s no secret that organic and natural cosmetics can be on the pricier side. So, before you invest in a full-sized product, opt for a sample or travel-sized version instead.
In this way, you can test out a product to see if it works for you before committing to a larger purchase. Despite the natural label, not all sustainable products are created equal—some may work well for your skin while others may not. It takes time to build up a collection of items that you love, but it’ll be worth it in the end.
Remember to Keep It Simple
By using fewer products, you’ll cut down on the number of packaging materials needed and the amount of water and energy required for production. Plus, an onslaught of different items can actually end up causing more harm than good to your skin.
Make Well-Informed Decisions
The next time you’re at the store, take a few minutes to read the labels on potential purchases. This will help you to understand what ingredients are part of the product, as well as the claims that the company is making about it.
Do you really need 10 different products to get ready for your day? Are you actually using all of them in your current beauty routine? Simplifying your beauty routine can not only save you time and money, but it can also be better for the environment.
Additionally, you can do a bit of research online about a particular item or company before making a purchase. This way, you can be sure that you’re buying from a brand that aligns with your values.
Eat More Sustainably and Healthily
Much like humans, the Earth has limited resources. And, just as we need to take care of our bodies, we need to take care of the planet and preserve its well-being for future generations. By making certain dietary changes and switching to eco friendly products, you can do your part to lessen your environmental impact.
Shop Seasonal And Local
One way to lighten your carbon footprint is to shop for seasonal and local produce. This means that you’ll be eating foods that are grown closer to home and that don’t require as much energy or fuel to transport.
Seasonal eating also has the added benefit of supporting small businesses in your community. In addition to fruits and vegetables, you can also look for locally-sourced meat, dairy, and eggs. These items tend to be produced in a more environmentally-friendly way than their mass-produced counterparts.
Eat a Wider Range of Foods
Food security is a big issue in today’s world. And, one way to reduce your impact is to diversify the types of foods that you eat. By doing so, you’ll become less reliant on any one crop or food source. This way, if there’s a problem with the production of one type of food, you’ll still have access to others.
Additionally, eating a variety of foods helps to ensure that you’re getting all the nutrients your body needs. Diverse diets have been linked with better overall health, so it’s a win-win situation.
Buy In Bulk
Purchasing items in bulk can help to reduce packaging waste. And, if you’re able to find a local source for bulk items, you’ll also be cutting down on transportation emissions.
Before you do this though, be sure to take stock of your current pantry and fridge. There’s no point in buying a large quantity of something if it’s just going to go bad before you have a chance to use it.
Grow Your Food If Possible
One of the best ways to reduce your environmental impact is to grow your own food. You’ll effectively be cutting down on transportation emissions and packaging waste.
Plus, you’ll have the satisfaction of knowing that your food is fresh and hasn’t been sitting on a grocery store shelf for weeks. Knowing exactly where your food comes from can also give you peace of mind.
