We are now more aware than ever before of the importance of sustainable living. Several industries are shifting their focus toward using more eco-friendly materials and eliminating manufacturing wastes more mindfully. Economists and authorities all around the world are also keen on implementing sustainable economic development goals to ensure productive yet conscious growth. While some large-scale organizations are partaking in this movement, the real change comes when individuals and households participate, as well. The problem is that when we hear the words “environmentally-friendly,” our mind immediately wanders to tall orders and burdensome demands. However, eco-friendly living doesn’t have to be so hard. Here are 4 environment-friendly changes you can easily make in your everyday life. 

1. More Veggies, Less Meat

Many people don’t think that reducing their meat intake can make a difference when it comes to preserving the environment. Though, if you think about it, over thirty percent of our planet’s surface is dedicated to raising and feeding livestock alone. This matters because the livestock sector generates around nine percent of the carbon dioxide emissions that result from human-related activities. Additionally, it contributes to the emission of various other toxic greenhouse gases, according to the United Nations. For instance, the industry is responsible for the generation of sixty-five percent of the nitrous oxide that results from human-related activities. Whether you believe it or not, nitrous oxide has 296 times more global warming and pollution potential than carbon dioxide. This is why eating less meat can make a significant contribution to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. Not to mention that when less land is used for the raising and supporting of livestock, we’ll have more surface area to allot to recreational purposes! You don’t have to cut out meat entirely; however, consider eating more vegetables and non-meat protein sources. This will not only help the environment, but it may also be quite beneficial for your health, as well. 

2. Explore Sustainable Fashion 

The fashion industry is universally known to account for the most pollution among all other trades. It is solely responsible for about 10% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions, as well as around 20% of wastewater. Deciding to shop for consciously made fashion items, support thrift stores, and strictly stick to ethical brands can be one small yet substantial environmentally-friendly change you could make. Fast fashion is made from “fast” materials that aren’t designed to last. Because conscious brands use quality materials, you need to buy and get rid of fewer items less frequently, reducing wastage. Since fashion brands follow trends, everyone usually ends up dressing the same. When you shop for sustainable options, you get the opportunity to look unique and express your individuality and style. The environmental activists at https://www.trvst.world/ suggest that besides being able to reduce your carbon footprint, shopping at ethical stores gives you the chance to invest in brands that don’t exploit workers and encourage child labor. Fast fashion stores are known for their tendency to pay workers from developing countries below the minimum wage, scout children, and provide them with inadequate work conditions. 

3. Avoid Using Plastic

Have you ever noticed how many plastic bags you return home with after visiting the grocery store? Those single-use bags are incredibly wasteful and harmful to the environment; plastic goods, like shopping bags, water bottles, and straws, can take up to 450 years to decompose. This means that they stay in landfills and oceans for centuries. Consider using reusable water bottles and metal straw options. You should also look into sustainably made canvas bags, which are generally cheap to acquire. By eliminating your plastic wastes, you can greatly reduce your carbon footprint. 

4. Compost Vs. Bin

Every time you want to throw something out, take a second to think about whether it can be composted. If it can, you should toss it in the compost pile. Compost bins are great; they can help you reduce waste significantly by allowing you to reuse several items. This can also help boost plant growth in your garden, allowing you to contribute to the cleansing of air. You will get to save a lot of money as well; why would you use store-bought compost when you have your own? 

All big changes start small. Asking how we can make a difference is always the easiest option. We think about everyone else who takes the easy way out, telling ourselves that the one plastic bag we’re throwing out is not the issue. However, you should always remember that positivity propagates and that every little greener step makes a huge difference for the environment.