In an uncertain world, we’re often advised to focus on the small things, or “just one thing” that we can do to make a difference. As we become more aware of the damage that human activity has wrought on the environment, sustainable living has become a hot topic, and some changes are easy to make.
But when it comes to it, we’re British. A lot of us are allergic to standing out in a crowd. We want to do our bit for the world around us, but no-one wants to be (whisper it) …That Person. Therefore, I thought I’d share some of the ways I live sustainably from day-to-day that are low-budget and, to preserve our collective nerves, low-key.
New-for-you outfits
When it comes to refreshing your style guilt-free, charity shops are often recommended. But it can be demotivating to paw through the same five ostentatiously floral dresses at your local branch, tempting you back into the toxic embrace of fast fashion. For this I recommend the hobbyist’s favourite, eBay. The app has really detailed filters to zero in on exactly what you’re looking for, from size and sleeve length to materials and the cut of the neckline. This is excellent if you’re concerned about the effects of certain fibres on your health (not to mention the planet), but also helpful if you adhere to a dress code, be it professional or religious.
(Bonus life hack: if you shop through Nectar.com, you can earn Nectar points on anything you buy from eBay. They used to have this enabled automatically, but now you need to do a little extra legwork. Still…!)
Complaining about dinner? Can it…
Any student will tell you that eating on a strict budget can get boring quickly. If you’d like to get more creative in the kitchen but can’t afford the numerous meal box subscriptions every week or so, I recommend the humble but brilliant Tin Can Cook by Jack Monroe.
Jack has used their experience living at the sharp end of government austerity policies to compile this guide to culinary adventure, which can be embarked upon with just a few cupboard staples and food from tins. This economical main ingredient also allows for more freedom in what you’d like to eat each evening, as unlike their fresh counterparts, tinned fruit, veg and meat will keep for a nice long time. As well as dinner, you’ll find some great recipes for breakfasts, side dishes and even cakes to feed a crowd. Pick up a copy for the next time your stomach rumbles!
Get great food, give back to the world
It’s not getting as much attention as it seemed to in the 2000s, but the Fairtrade movement is still very much a living force for good. When you buy Fairtrade products, be it sugar, bananas or even socks, farmers and producers receive a higher, more proportionate payment. They also receive the Fairtrade Premium, extra money that they can use to send children to school, access healthcare, or anything else that will improve their quality of life.
You’d be surprised at how much reasonably-priced Fairtrade produce is available – and you probably eat some already. Famous brands that have gone Fairtrade include Ben & Jerry’s, Maltesers, and British icon Greggs. Check out Fairtrade for yourself here.
Do us a solid
Shampoo and shower gel are a must for looking presentable and waking up in the morning. But have you noticed how quickly a bottle depletes? If you’re anything like me, the stuff is too slippery for its own good, and swishes away down the plughole before having a chance to greet your follicles.
Grüum provides an answer that both solves the problem and looks sleek. Their solid shampoo bars last, in my experience, a whole month, and are conveniently available on subscription via post. They also sell neat metal tins to put them in, so you can take your plastic-free upgrade travelling with you easily. Also in humble round bar form are body wash, face cleanser and exfoliating scrub – all vegan and made in England with natural ingredients. Doing your bit for the planet doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice smelling great.
Live in other people’s houses (legally)
Once you’ve spring-cleaned your consumer habits, you’re probably in the mood for giving yourself a quiet pat on the back. Well done indeed. Fancy a holiday?
Well, if you’d like to go somewhere interesting but can’t justify the single-use plastic often found at hotels (or, let’s face it, the travel costs), TrustedHousesitters have you covered. They’re a worldwide network of people who will let you stay in their homes, effectively for free, in exchange for looking after their pets. Obviously there is a responsibility involved when it comes to animal husbandry, but otherwise it’s a really useful way of getting around and having a secure, comfortable place to lay your head.
In the two or three years I’ve used TrustedHousesitters, the annual membership has more than paid for itself, when I think about what I’d otherwise have spent on hotels. I’ve had a week in a sunny central London apartment when I travelled for work, a peaceful retreat in Hampshire, and a zen, fairytale-like experience in southern Germany (shout-out if any of you people are reading this – you’re amazing and I’m very thankful). Memberships start at £99 for a year, and are really worth it if you enjoy travelling and fluffy companions.
Some of the links in this article will benefit me financially if you use them. I’d really appreciate it if you did, as I work independently of any media organisations and just like to write about things others might find useful. Thank you!
Bonny Hazelwood 