Many of us are continuously trying to adapt to sustainable eating and a way of living – this means a lifestyle that celebrates life and resources on earth. But another important thing about living more ‘green’ and environmentally friendly is that it needs to be maintainable. We don’t mean easy – because nothing good ever comes easily. Instead, we need to consciously and actively make practical changes so that we can eventually create a cultural shift.
There are lots of ways to start and lots to be done. One of the best ways is to look at our daily habits – things we repeatedly do. In this blog post, we’ve decided to tackle something that we all do, often – eating. So here are some of our ideas: 5 ways to sustainable eating and shopping.
One of the first things you want to make sure that what you’ve got in your shopping cart is humane and ethical. For example, is your coffee or chocolate fair-trade? If not, then it’s time to switch to a brand.
Next, you want to buy from local farms and shops because they generate less petroleum consumption. Then, you want to make sure you purchase seasonal fruits and veggies for the same reason. This way, you also help your local economy, creating jobs and opportunities in your community.
Another great way to achieve a sustainable eating style is to buy products in bulk. Not only will you save money, but you end up avoiding all the packaging. Most often, the food packaging uses plastic, and if you’re wondering what the dangers of that are, then be sure to check out our blog on the risks of our plastic consumption. To avoid packaging, you can also try to make your own food – you don’t have to start with making your own butter (though you can if you so desire), but there are many things we buy packaged and processed that are so easy to make. A great way to start is by avoiding canned goods. By avoiding packaged foods, you often avoid chemicals, toxins, preservatives, and food colouring, so you’re doing yourself and the environment a favour.
Your next step is to buy organic. Many people are worried about the cost of organic versus regular produce, but there are many benefits to switching over. If you plan in advance, you can even save money. To learn more, check out our earlier blog on The 3 Major Benefits of Buying Organic Produce.
Sustainable eating is more than just the foods you buy. It’s also about our daily practices. One of the easiest yet most effective ways to ensure you’re doing good for the environment is to take along your reusable shopping totes on those grocery trips. We have a large selection of reusable bags to help you get started on your kit. Our advice to you? Avoid plastic at all costs.
So here you have it. 5 easy ways to ensure you’re one step closer to living an Eco-friendly life. Got any more ideas? Don’t be shy. Comment below to share them with us.
