Craig Bowen 
The environment is a precious resource, and we can take many practical steps daily to minimize our environmental footprint. These steps are not complex or difficult but rather simple and doable. After all, sustainable living is about making mindful choices that benefit both our planet and our well-being. So, here are five easy tips to help you live more sustainably and reduce your environmental impact.
1. Use Your Bags and Containers for Shopping
One of the simplest ways to reduce waste is to use your bags and containers when shopping. Many butchers and delis allow customers to use their containers for meat and deli items, reducing the need for single-use plastic bags. Bulk food stores also encourage shoppers to bring their trainers to fill up on grains, nuts, and other products. It’s an easy way to reduce plastic waste and contribute to a cleaner environment.
2. Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle
Adopting the mantra of “reduce, reuse, and recycle” can significantly affect the amount of waste you produce. This means not buying items you don’t know, and when you do make a purchase, consider second-hand options; for example, op-shops, marketplaces, and swap meets are treasure troves of great finds, including good quality second-hand furniture. Not only does buying second-hand save money, but it also reduces the demand for new products, thereby conserving resources and reducing waste. Plus, it gives new life to items that might otherwise end up in landfills. Choose More Sustainable Options
Opting for sustainable products can greatly reduce your environmental footprint. For example, replace single-use items with reusable alternatives like beeswax wraps instead of zip-lock bags, glass instead of plastic containers, and reusable coffee cups instead of throw-aways. These choices help reduce waste and the environmental impact of single-use items’ production, and dispositionally, they often come with the added benefit of being healthier and more durable.
4. Change Up Your Self-Care Routine
Your self-care routine can also be a place to make more sustainable choices. So, consider making eco-friendly products because homemade skincare and cleaning products can be as effective as commercial ones while reducing potential toxic exposure. This reduces packaging waste and sores you from exposing the environment or yourself to toxic, poisonous, harmful substances.
5. Start a Veggie Garden
Starting a vegetable garden is a rewarding way to embrace sustainable living. Begin by growing your vegetables from scraps (for example, tomatoes, lettuce, celery, canned), reducing food waste, and fresh, organic produce. You can also trade seeds and produce with neighbors, encouraging a sense of community and further reducing the need for commercially grown vegetables.
Making a Difference, One Step at a Time
Sustainability is not about being perfect; it’s about making small, manageable changes that collectively make a big difference. No matter how insignificant it may seem, each small change you make contributes to a healthier planet. Remember, it’s not about throwing away what you have but using it until it needs to be replaced and then choosing more sustainable options. Every effort counts, and together, we can positively impact our planet.
