We, as consumers, have the power to reduce our environmental impact just through the products we purchase. A common myth is that shopping environmentally friendly is expensive, in the post I am going bust that myth and tell you how YOU can shop sustainably in a realistic way. Zero waste isn't always an option but follow these tips to reduce the amount of rubbish produced from your shopping.
1. Invest in good quality reusable bags
For a one off cost, you can save yourself more money in the future by investing in a bag that won't rip when you put too many groceries in it. These can be found at most local supermarkets and are a worthwhile purchase as many stores are now banning the plastic bag. But why stop at just taking them to the grocery store, why not take them shopping for anything you purchase and avoid using a plastic bag.
2. Shop at bulk food stores or in the bulk bins
Not only can this be cheaper, but it also gives you the opportunity to bring your own containers to put your food in and reduce your waste. Shopping out of the bulk food bins rather than buying the packaged product is a super easy and cheap way to reduce your plastic waste. If your looking for an alternate option to using containers, as carting these to the grocery store can be inconvenient, you can purchase cotton drawstring bags instead. You can put anything form sugar, oats, nuts and seeds, lentals, lollies, grains and more in these bags and then transfer them to your Tupperware when you get home and you've got yourself a plastic free shopping trip!
I personally use My Vita Bag. My Vita Bag reusable produce bags are your sustainable alternative to plastic bags. They are ethically made from certified organic fabrics and are designed to last many years they are 100% compostable!
3. Bring your own containers and reusable coffee cup
Many restaurants and cafes offer discounts such as 50 cents off when you bring your own reusables. Its a win win situation, you save money AND you reduce your waste. Just keep them on hand in your car so they are there whenever you need. I carry my metal straw in my glove box too!
4. Shop second hand, clothes in particular.
The fashion industry causes large amounts of pollution, by buying from op shops or off secondhand sites (there are several pages for this on facebook) we can reduce the amount of clothing going to landfills or sitting unused in someones wardrobe. This contributes to a circular economy and can save YOU money!
The three bags at the back have strong handles and are sturdy, I always put the heavier items such as apples, carrots or drinks in them. The white mesh bags to the left are for my fruit and vege. They are also from Vita bag and are an alternate to produce bags of which are usually plastic. They are more breathable than the cotton bags, great for mushrooms or any produce really! The cotton bags towards the front are for my nuts, seeds, grains etc. The middle picture is my oats strapped into my car XD
Comments