Stop Waiting to Start your Eco Journey: Simple Steps to go Green
Does the thought of becoming more environmentally friendly overwhelm you? Don't fret! Its so much simpler than you might think to start on a greener path than the one that has lead you here. The good news is that you don't need to completely change your lifestyle. Even the smallest, intentional changes can lead to significantly positive impacts over time. I do not want to waste your time, so if you are already thinking "its too expensive", "its too hard", "it wont make a difference" then this isn't the post for you. This post is for those arriving with an open mindset ready to start making changes that they know will make a difference.
In this post, we’ll guide you through 5 simple yet practical steps that can help you create a roadmap to a more sustainable lifestyle. Please note this is a step by step that will take maybe 5 minutes to read but days, weeks, months, and maybe even years to fully delve into depending on you. Just like most new years resolutions (fitness, loosing weight, be more financially stable) there's no true quick fix.
Step 1: Believe in Your Ability to Create Change
Prior to even so much as refilling a water bottle we need to ensure a steady and unshakable foundation! It is incredibly easy to dive into a new lifestyle full force with all the fresh anticipation and excitement only to become burnt out and let down when we don't meet our own ridiculously high expectations or what we perceive to be realistic from influencers on tv and social media. Becoming sustainable for the environment also means becoming sustainable in your personal expectations and goals. Know that you will not solve global warming in a week. You likely will still use plastic day in and day out. You will find areas much more combative to change than other but you will make progress and you will make a difference.
Step 2: Understand Where You're at Presently
Before making any major changes, it’s important to understand your starting point. What areas of your day to day do you currently feel are already sustainable? If you are drawing a blank, then that's okay. Sometimes we are completely unaware of these tiny things. Take a day or two and try to be present in the moment through the day and jot down little things you observe that you either think you're doing well or may be able to do better. For instance, everyday at work you bring a reusable water bottle which is great to cut down on single use plastics. Then for lunch you use a single use plastic fork everyday. Note the positive choice you have already begun making alongside the things that could use improvement.
Once you have a list of moves you have already made and areas of improvement, separate the lists into two. You want to keep the record of your growth and all the things you do so well for anytime you feel overwhelmed going forward as motivation to keep going. Now look at your list of what needs work.
For instance, if you typically buy 10 bottled waters each week, that adds up to approximately 520 bottles in a year—potentially enough to fill over 10 full garbage bags. This initial assessment will not only give you insights into your habits but also lay the foundation for your eco journey.
As you perform this evaluation, identify quick wins. Perhaps you notice that you can easily switch from plastic straws to metal ones or from plastic wrap to beeswax wraps. These small adjustments can be the first steps toward reducing your plastic footprint.
Step 2: Start With Something Simple, Like a Reusable Bag
Investing in reusable shopping bags is one of the easiest yet most effective changes you can make. The cost varies—most reusable bags range from $5 to $30—but this investment can save you money over time, particularly if your grocery store charges for plastic bags.
Consider this: an average family can prevent around 500-1000 plastic bags from hitting landfills each year just by using reusable bags. Keep them handy—store them in your car or by your front door—so you never forget them when shopping.
With consistent use, the savings from avoiding bag fees can also really accumulate contributing to more money in your pocket that will inevitably pay you back for your investment in that reusable bag!
Step 3: Explore Eco-Friendly Alternatives
Next, think about other parts of your daily life where you can implement eco-friendly alternatives. Investigate categories such as personal care, cleaning products, and food storage.
For personal care, shifting to bar shampoo and conditioner can make a big difference. A single bar may cost around $15 but can replace two to three bottles or more, saving both plastic waste and money.
When shopping for cleaning supplies, look for brands that prioritize sustainable packaging, and refillable options. Being able to refill will likely save you money because it costs the company less to produce, and save you on waste disposal too from un-needed packaging.
Step 4: Educate Yourself and Others About Your Eco-Journey
Sharing what you learn is vital in building an eco-conscious lifestyle. While progressing on your own eco journey, take the time to educate friends and family about the changes you’re making. Checking in and sharing your wins helps keep you striving to make more and inspires others.
Consider hosting casual gatherings or get-togethers where you share tips on reducing one's carbon footprint. Explain how small adjustments can lead to a plastic-free lifestyle. You could even start simple conversations about reusable products during lunch breaks or share informative articles in your social circles. Building a community focused on sustainable living enhances your impact. Your efforts can inspire those around you, and together, you can create a larger cultural shift.
Step 5: Track Progress and Adjust
To stay on track, monitor your progress and adjust your approach as needed. Revisit your initial assessment and evaluate the changes you've made. Have you successfully cut down on plastic consumption? Are you spending less on disposable items?
If you find certain changes particularly easy or beneficial, continue with them! If other strategies are proving difficult, don’t hesitate to modify them.
Self-reflection keeps you motivated in your eco journey and encourages continuous improvement. Remember, you’re aiming for progress—not perfection!
Getting Started on Your Eco Journey
Switching to a more sustainable lifestyle is entirely achievable. By following these five simple steps and gradually adopting eco-friendly habits, you can create a clear path to a more plastic-free life.
Every effort counts. Whether it’s investing in reusable bags, sharing knowledge with others, or keeping track of your progress, you’re playing a part in improving our planet. Transitioning to a zero waste lifestyle can have positive effects on your finances and the world around you.
Why wait? Start your journey today and make a positive impact, one small change at a time! If you need extra help figuring out where to start check out the related posts.
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