Lifestyle

5 Easy Hacks to Save the Planet - And Your Wallet!

July 21, 2020

HI! I’m Molly.

Here to encourage you on your own bold pursuit of intentional living as I live out my own. I’m passionate about running, spending time doing what I love and cheering others on to approach running with joy.

As I’ve been learning more about sustainability, I wanted to share 5 easy hacks to save the planet and your wallet!

I’ve been doing a lot more research into the topic of sustainability and also auditing how much waste I create...spoiler alert. A LOT. And I hate knowing that my choices are negatively impacting the environment. I think we often hear the words “sustainability” “minimalism” “zero waste” and automatically think it’s either too much effort or too expensive. If you fall into one of those two categories above, I totally get it. I also used to think that as one person I couldn’t make a difference in this area, but TBH, the consumerism and waste we create started to really really bother me and make me uncomfortable. So, I’ve decided to embark on what I expect to be a long journey of creating less waste and being more sustainable! Sustainability looks different for everyone. So, rather than compare how little (or how much!) you’re doing, work on taking small steps everyday to reduce your waste. Here are 5 easy hacks to save the planet and your wallet![caption id="attachment_6242" align="aligncenter" width="768"]

I love going to the Farmer's Market every weekend![/caption]

1. Re-use old jars

Plastic or glass, they can be used for so many other things! Find ways to repurpose your jars that food comes in, whether it’s to store odds and ends, veggies, other foods, etc. The ultimate goal is to not have anything to throw away or recycle, which is why repurposing is a great option.

2. Shop secondhand

The fashion industry creates a disgusting amount of waste each year. Shopping secondhand minimizes waste because if a garment is eventually thrown out, it ends up in a landfill and isn’t biodegradable. It helps when you go thrifting to know exactly what you’re looking for, that way you’re not overwhelmed by the options.

3. Replace single use-items with sustainable items

As you finish up single use items (bag of cotton balls, case of water bottles, etc.) add in a sustainable item to replace them. Or if you can, make something! Pay attention to what you’re only using once and google to see if there are alternatives!

4. Keep canvas bags and reusable coffee mug in your car to always be prepared

You never know when you may need to run to the grocery store or you just need that cup of coffee to get through the day. Keep a few tote bags and reusable coffee cup in your car to have for those last minute trips you didn’t plan for!

5. Shop seasonally and locally for food

Are you somewhere you can shop at a farmers market? Shopping locally means you’re supporting local farmers, keeping the money local, eating seasonally (huge benefits!) and reducing your carbon footprint. Plus, food is just better when it’s in season and made locally!

What steps are you taking to be more green?

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