how I shop sustainably on a budget
Our world is quite literally falling apart due to human neglect and ignorance. Action must start with us! We see the impact of climate change everyday as more natural disasters flare up and weather becomes more and more uncontrollable. I feel just a little bit better when I’m able to cut down on my own carbon footprint. There seems to be some sort of lore about being sustainable - that it’s somehow more expensive even though you are using less product on a daily basis and therefore purchasing less… Here’s how I do it without spending too much money!
1) Bring your own shopping bags every time you leave the house. I nanny 3 days a week for a 6 year old on the Hill. Every time I go to her house, I bring a tote bag with my phone, keys, reusable water bottle, metal straw, a book, and an extra reusable tote bag. This way I’m never unprepared should I need to run to the store. Having these also saves money!! Many states, DC included, charge 5 cents a plastic/paper bag. As they say, every penny counts so just invest in some nice tote bags which are better for the environment, can be insulated to safely store food for longer periods of time, save you money, and don’t break easily like disposable bags!
2) Go to a local farmer’s market to shop for food. Farmer’s markets tend to be much cheaper (at least in my experience) than many grocery stores. You can get high quality organic fresh local produce this way and support your community. This also allows you to avoid any unnecessary packaging! I can’t tell you how many times I’ve been in grocery stores and seen vegetables or fruits in plastic cling wrap for no reason! Bonus points if you just throw the vegetables or fruits directly into your reusable bag without a complimentary plastic bag. You really don’t need one! ALSO show some love to the produce that might be a little bruised. Those often don’t get chosen leaving them to be thrown away when they’re perfectly fine to use. Give some loving to those little guys too. I always seek out the bruised ones :)
3) Go thrifting! Not only is it cheap, but you’re helping to fight against fast fashion! New clothes are incredibly hard on the earth to produce. They require copious amounts of energy and water. When you go thrifting, make sure to bring a reusable bag to put all your gently loved items in!
4) Do your research! It takes a quick google search to uncover what your favorite brands are doing to help our planet be a healthier place (or not doing). Be conscious of how the foods you eat get to your plate. Be conscious of how your favorite clothes get into your closet. Support sustainable clothing and food brands! (Post coming soon with sustainable ethical brands you should patronize).
These are just a few of the ways I try to be sustainable on a daily basis on a budget. Hopefully you can incorporate some of these into your life!
xoxo,
Tatsie
