Tips for a More Sustainable Lifestyle

Author: Shoshi Hornum (CEI Intern)
This month is marks the 75th anniversary of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization, which among other things, advocates for sustainable living practices. It is imperative that people consider sustainability in everything from the food we eat to the clothes we wear. There is a lot to consider in cultivating a sustainable lifestyle, so here are some suggestions to keep in mind.
 
Sustainable fashion tips:

1. Before you buy, check the tags for eco-friendly fabrics! These include organic cotton, bamboo, recycled polyester, TENCEL, and more. Steer clear of materials such as typical polyester, nylon, fur, leather, and acrylic.
2. Look at the labels! Some sustainable clothing will have labels such as USDA Organic, Fair Trade, or GOTS Organic. You can shop from local businesses that have adopted sustainable clothing practices.
3. Avoid fast fashion. Not only does the production of fast fashion typically involve inhumane conditions, but the garments are made of synthetic fabrics and not made to last, making them unsustainable and not eco-friendly. These include brands such as Zara, Shein, Fashion Nova, and H&M.
4. Shop second hand! Every year, Americans generate 16 million tons of textile waste. Decrease this number by thrifting!
5. Wash your clothes less frequently. Fabrics such as denim do not need to be washed after every use. In addition, save water by consolidating laundry into fewer loads and use cold water.
6. Upcycle your current clothes! Add some embroidery or decals and you will have a like-new item that you can reuse instead of throwing away.
7. Donate any clothes you aren’t using. Look near schools for clothing donation drop boxes! Use Planet Aid’s “Find a Bin” feature to check for nearby locations.

 
Sustainable eating tips:

1. Start an organic vegetable garden and grow your own produce.
2. Reduce your plastic use! Instead of using plastic bags, bottles, straws, and cutlery, reach for paper or reusable alternatives such as glass and steel.
3. Eat less animal products. Global animal agriculture accounts for a whopping 14.5% of all greenhouse gas emissions and 1 pound of beef requires 1,800 gallons of water! Participate in Meatless Mondays as often as possible! Try a vegetarian or vegan diet.
4. Support local restaurants that are committed to sourcing local products and practicing sustainability in their business!
5. Buy organic food. Regenerative farming reduces water pollution, produces more food, and helps reverse the climate crisis!

 
General sustainable life tips:

1. Save water. This tip is as simple as shutting off water when you aren’t using it. Try not to leave water running while you are brushing your teeth, take shorter showers, etc.
2. Save energy. Turn off lights in rooms that you are not in and use LED light bulbs!
3. Walk or bike whenever possible. When you can’t, try public transportation and/or carpooling.
4. Install solar panels.
5. Recycle and compost!
6. Use cloth bags at the grocery store!

 
Sustainability at CEI:

1. We promote and practice sustainable agriculture. Purchase our locally and sustainably grown produce during the summer of 2021 and beyond.
2. Donate to help us continue our sustainable initiatives!

 
Sources:
Green America: Green Living
UN Food and Agriculture Organization
The New York Times