April 22nd marks Earth Day, a celebration of the home we call Planet Earth and a movement to protect it. This year’s theme is ‘Invest In Our Planet’, and there are many ways to do so.
The earth is everyone’s business, and Earth Day serves as a reminder of this. For over 50 years, Earth Day has been a notable date on the calendars of the earth-conscious crowd, nature-loving nation and dependable demonstrators. Today, it reminds us that the earth is what we all have in common. This year’s highly anticipated event ensures that everyone is accounted for, and everyone accountable.
All about taking action, Earth Day 2022 focusses on forming a partnership for the planet. As well as encouraging business leaders to get on board with sustainability and embrace the benefits of a green economy, this date provides the perfect opportunity for individuals to consider what more can be done. So, here’s a list of three simple, eco-friendly actions you can take today, to move towards a more sustainable future.
Calculate your plastic consumption
Like most, you’re probably conscious that there’s more you can do when it comes to plastic consumption. Perhaps your household is a natural haven but you fall into old habits on-the-go. Perhaps you take pride in your plastic-free bathroom (rightly so!), but notice your recycling bin is fuller than you’d like when it comes to food packaging. If these things ring true, take the time to calculate just how much plastic you use, and where you can cut down. Earth Day’s website offers a free calculator to help you learn about how many plastic items you consume and discard every year.
Push for plant-based options
If you’re not vegan, vegetarian, pescetarian or flexitarian, changing your diet can feel like a big decision. Maybe you don’t want to be awkward, can’t find cheap and suitable options, or simply love meat, fish and dairy. If this is the case, consider consuming less and experimenting with plant-based alternatives. Trial being veggie throughout the week and allocate a meat Monday or fish Friday. And if you’re already halfway there, make a concious effort to try more vegan offerings, ditching the parmesan on your pasta, cream in your curry, and cow milk in your coffee. There’s (literally) no harm in trying.
Practise sustainable fashion
You’ll likely know that the fast fashion industry relies on all those deeply unsettling things: fossil fuels, emissions, landfills… the list goes on. (Our guide to preloved possessions covers all the scary facts and figures.) But if fashion is about presenting the best version of yourself, sustainability can certainly be a common thread. Weave a new mindset around old garments. Say yes second-hand when you do need something ‘new’, but be sure to buy less, choose well and make it last. One person’s trash is another’s treasure, and we guarantee that you will easily fall in love with the preloved.
Take a look at the official Earth Day website for 52 ways that you can invest in the planet; that’s one per week until the next Earth Day. Are you up for the challenge!?
Written by Hannah Stark
Where do I start .i have never done anything like this before
Good afternoon Susan
Thank you for getting in touch
We recommend making small, simple changes to begin with. This can be a case of trial and error. I feel a great place to start is either in skin care or cleaning.
You could start as simple as swapping liquid shampoo for a shampoo bar as this would help reduce both emissions and plastic waste
Another good tip is try using a reusable bottle this also helps reduce plastic waste
I hope this helps you get started on helping to make a difference
If you have any further questions please email me at [email protected]
Kind regards
Gemma