Creative Ways to be More Sustainable
So we're all still trying to save the planet, right? We've gone all in on the straw-less drinks and the reusable tote bags. But what more can we be doing to reduce, reuse, and recycle?
Here are some of the ways my friends and I are working towards being as sustainable as possible!
Buy used media
Used books are often just as good as brand new ones! Plenty of times, readers drop them off after only reading them once. Check out your local thrift store or indie book store for your next read! This goes for DVDs, CDs, and vinyl as well!
Many stores will let you trade in your stuff for cash or store credit, too. Don't let your stuff sit on shelves forever! Check out my favorite place to shop and sell: https://www.bullmoose.com/
Turn your candles into wax melts
You know when it almost looks like you could still burn a candle, but the wick just won't light? Instead of throwing that candle away, turn the extra wax into melts for. wax burner! Place the candle into a sauce pan with a little bit of water. Boil it until the wax is melted again, then put on your ovenmits and pour the melted wax into silicone molds. Pop em in the freezer and see your wax reborn! Then, you can properly recycle the glass candle jar (or use it for something else)!
Check out these super cute trays: https://www.amazon.com/ROSANNA-PANSINO-Wilton-Silicone-12-Cavity/dp/B072F1CBCW?ref_=ws_cp_384e52dab0426a56fc39_p_1_i_p
Turn old tights into dusk rags
Never buy a dust rag again! Those nylons you were going to throw away because they ripped? They'll come in handy when you're cleaning! Really, any material can be helpful here. Repurpose your textiles!
Donate unwanted food
Even if you're a pro at meal prep, there will come a time where you buy that extra can of veggies or that second pint of blueberries. Before this excess food goes to waste and ends up in your trash can, clear out your kitchen and donate it to a local pantry or fridge!
There's a community fridge right down the street from my apartment in NYC! Check it out, and see if your town has one: https://www.instagram.com/astoriafridge/?hl=en
Sell & shop for clothes second hand
Thrift shopping is an obvious way to be sustainable, but have you considered selling your stuff, too? I currently use Poshmark, Mercari, and Facebook Marketplace to get my unwanted clothes into the hands of someone that will love them. It's a great way for others to shop second hand from the comfort of their homes, and will widen the audience your clothes can reach.
Get started today on Poshmark with my code to get a free $10 to spend: NATURALLYBECCA
Switch to period panties
This one's for all my period-getters! While this may not be the best fit for everyone depending on your needs, one way to reduce is to use period panties instead of pads or tampons. I just got a pair from aerie and I'm in love! They're super comfy and they definitely live up to their promise.
Get your own pair now: https://www.ae.com/us/en/p/aerie/undies/boybrief-underwear/aeriereal-period-underwear/6443_6441_073?menu=cat4840006
Air dry your laundry
Does all of your stuff really have to go in the dryer? Consider getting a drying rack and lay your clothes out, instead. I've done this for years, even in my tiny dorm room. Cut down on your energy use by skipping the dryer.
What are some small changes you can make to help save Mother Earth? Share them in the comments!
Photo by Casey Myer
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