EcoVista Residences

 

Sustainable Living Tips

Every purchase we make leaves an impactful footprint behind, from pollution caused during its creation and energy consumed during manufacturing to its eventual disposal at end-of-life. To minimize your environmental footprint, opt for reusable bags, containers and utensils when shopping or dining out.

Opting for locally sourced food has a lower carbon footprint than food that's been shipped long distances, while drinking tap water instead of bottled, and making use of compostable straws and coffee cups will also help.

Reduce Waste

People produce an astounding amount of trash, and reducing waste production is one of the best ways you can help protect the planet. Making small changes can have an enormous effect.

Switching from plastic wrap and tin foil to parchment and silicone baking sheets and paper towels for microfibre cloths you can wash and reuse is one simple way to cut waste, while composting - turning food scraps into nutrient-rich soil while decreasing landfill waste - and using reusable containers and bags when dining out will further decrease plastic usage.

Other things you can do to reduce waste include shopping locally and supporting local businesses. Also reusing cans and glass jars for storage can save fuel consumption. Swapping out car travel for biking or walking commutes reduces pollution emissions as well.

Incorporate Green Practices

No matter if it's transitioning to veganism or simply ditching plastic straws, each sustainable living action makes an impact. And when enough people make green choices, our government and businesses may follow suit more readily.

Energy conservation and efficiency are core practices in sustainability, helping reduce fossil fuel consumption. Utilizing energy-efficient light bulbs or powering off electronics when they're not needed can substantially lower electricity bills.

Shopping local is another effective way of supporting sustainable practices. By purchasing foods at your local farmer's market or CSA program, you reduce carbon emissions caused by transporting long-distance foodstuffs.

Reduce Carbon Footprint

At first, reducing your carbon footprint might seem daunting; however, small changes you can implement in your home to make an impact are achievable. These include insulate and draft proof your home, installing smart thermostats, switching to renewable energy sources such as wind or solar, or purchasing secondhand products.

Another excellent way to reduce your carbon footprint is by supporting local businesses and purchasing locally-grown food, which uses less energy for transport while helping support the local economy.

Additionally, switching off unnecessary appliances, keeping computers and printers in "sleep mode," and unplugging mobile chargers after use all help to reduce unnecessary electricity use - saving hundreds of dollars while significantly lowering carbon footprint.

Support Local Businesses

Shop local! It is an axiom we all hear often enough, but did you know there's more to it than just convenience or savings? By shopping locally, you are supporting jobs and the aspirations of neighbors while keeping money within the community and decreasing transport and packaging needs.

Local businesses also tend to offer unique product offerings that make your community feel like home, and often contribute more towards community service than chains stores.

This holiday season, give local small businesses your support by shopping locally at your favorite shops and restaurants - remembering to use greener options such as second-hand purchases, energy efficient appliances and switching to sustainable search engines such as Ecosia! Don't forget generous tipping: many service workers have been hit hard by COVID-19 fears, so they could really use your help. Finally, plan to visit your farmer's market this year to try some unique dishes!

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