As climate change activists, we are always looking for ways to become more sustainable. As a result, we look to the internet for our research. Unfortunately, the internet is full of myths that are not only unhelpful for our planet, but unrealistic. That’s why we began to turn to podcasts as a more reliable source of information. Today, we’ll be sharing tips we recently learned as well as debunking some common myths about sustainability.
- Myth : You have to buy only from sustainable brands. While this is helpful, not everyone has the means to purchase only from sustainable brands as they are typically more expensive and not as easy to access. Being more mindful about your purchases and buying less is actually the best way to be more sustainable when it comes to your closet and it saves more money in the long run.
- Myth : Have to fit all your waste into a mason jar. I’m sure many of you have seen at least one eco influencer doing this and I’m sure it made you feel guilty at your own pile of trash. The reality? Fitting all your waste into a mason jar is a very intimidating goal. Instead, think about where you are generating your waste and choose one thing to cut. Are you using too many plastic bags at the grocery store? Purchase some reusable ones. Is your family drinking too many plastic water bottles? Invest in some reusable ones. Already you’ll be more eco friendly.
- Myth : You have to be vegan. While it is great to be vegan, not everyone can do so because of financial and dietary restrictions. Instead consider going an entire day without meat each week or making the switch from dairy to plant based milk. These small changes will still make a positive impact and are much easier to accomplish.
- Myth : Recycle everything. This myth can actually be more harmful than helpful. Depending on your local laws, certain items you think are recyclable actually end up contaminating the rest of the bin. Instead, look up your laws to see if that yogurt canister can be recycled or not. If you’re not sure, putting it in the trash is better than risking contamination of objects that can be recycled.
These are just four debunked myths to help you get started! We got these tips from the podcast Good Together : Ethical, Eco-Friendly, Sustainable Living. If you want to learn more, listen to their episodes or do some research on your own!