Hip hip hooray – It’s Earth Day (Wednesday, April 22nd)
It’s earth day and I think it’s such an important topic because it’s something we all have in common. There are so many little things we can change in our daily life to help clean the planet and be more eco-friendly.
Bottled Water
Plastic water bottles, and all single-use plastics, are a serious threat to our planet and scientists believe it could negatively impact human health as well. On average 1 million plastic water bottles are bought every minute – and most wind up in the landfill and in our oceans! Is that not the craziest thing ever? Beautiful stainless steel water bottles are a smart accessory that can make a fashion statement while saving you money and keeping your water cooler longer. Choose from a variety of colours and prints to add some eco-chic to your ensemble!
Toothbrushes
The average person throws away 300 toothbrushes in their lifetime – for a family of four, that is 1200 toothbrushes plus packaging!! That adds up to a lot of plastic. Why not try an eco-friendly alternative with interchangeable bristles and recyclable cardboard packaging? The earth will thank you as much as your glistening pearly whites do!
Beeswax Wraps
Beeswax wraps are one of my favourite zero-waste products! Use them in place of plastic wrap to cover containers, wrap sandwiches, and so on! Not only do they smell like honey, but you can also use the same one over and over again in place of disposable plastic wrap. Your budget, and the environment, will thank you!
Bar Soap
Studies have shown that manufactured liquid soap leaves 25% of a higher carbon footprint than bar soap. Many bar soaps come in cardboard packaging instead of plastic, have organic ingredients such as coconut oil or Shea butter, and can be sourced locally! This soap smells so amazing it makes the whole room smell good just being out of the box. Better for you and the planet! Win-win!
Home Made Cleaners
Homemade cleaners are easy and effective and can limit your exposure to commercial cleaning chemicals.
- 50% vinegar
- 50% water
- Add a few drops of your favourite essential oils!!
Recycle a leftover kombucha bottle from Anna‘s and an old spray nozzle from a different cleaner – voila! You can also make your own fabric freshening spray. Simply add water and 1 tsp of baking soda with a few drops of essential oils. Spray it in your shower or on your bed, for a wonderful custom scent.
Washcloths and Dishtowels
Reusable washcloths and dish towels add a fashionable flair to bathrooms and kitchens and lessen the use of harsh chemicals and carbon emissions used in the manufacturing and transporting of paper goods. They add that soft look that only textiles can provide, making a room inviting!
Stainless Steel Straws
Stainless steel straws are not only reusable but make everything look so much more luxurious. Why not make the switch and add a touch of glam to your drinks?
Reusable Shopping Bags
This one’s a big one! Plastic bags from the grocery store lack the durability and strength of reusable bags. Reusable bags can hold more food, are washable and are a stylish alternative that will last for years!! (We are temporarily out of our Anna’s members bags but hoping to have more in soon)
Glass Jars
Putting your pantry items in glass jars doesn’t mean running to the store and buying new ones! You can simply clean the label off an old pickle jar and voila… frugal and zero waste! And just think – all the money you just saved on glass jars can be put to use on these adorable wooden scoops. It’s the accessory in my kitchen that sparks the most joy for me!
Buy Local/ Farmer’s Markets
Buying local is not only good for our local economy but it means less pollution. Right here in Essex County, we are so blessed with such an abundance of fresh produce – cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, apples and so much more!
Wool Dryer Balls
Wool balls not only dry your clothes faster but you can make your own custom scents with essential oils to make your clothes smell wonderful!
Composting
Composting can reduce the amount of garbage you put out week after week and will also make a great addition to your garden. So roll up your sleeves and dig in!
Small changes add up to make a big impact! Like Dr. Seuss said in his classic earth day piece The Lorax, “Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, Nothing is going to get better – it’s not!” Eliminating some of the disposable items or single-use plastics in your life can save you money and lessen your carbon footprint. How are you celebrating Earth Day this year?
