One of the easiest ways we can look after the environment is by reducing our waste. Whether you are thinking about becoming more eco-friendly in your office or simply in your home, there are many ways to go about it.
Of course, the idea of moving to a more sustainable lifestyle can feel overwhelming – even for the most well-intentioned eco-warriors. So to help you make the switch with ease, we’ve compiled our top tips for reducing waste and cleaning more sustainably.
Employ the First In, First Out Rule
Have you ever heard of the FIFO term in cooking before? I hadn’t either until recently. But it’s a really smart waste-saving solution that makes a lot of sense. When unpacking your groceries for the week, move the older items in your fridge, freezer or pantry toward the front and place the new items at the back. This will help you prevent a jam-packed fridge, and will ensure you use more of your products before they expire.
Start Green Cleaning
If you’re still using traditional cleaning products in 2020, then you need to think again. These chemical-filled products are not only harmful for the environment but they can also be detrimental to your health. The best alternative is to use green cleaning products which use natural (and often organic) ingredients for a safer finish. And you may be surprised to know that they actually work just as effectively as chemical cleaners. It’s easy enough to make the switch at home, but if you want to move to green cleaning products in the office, simply ask your commercial cleaner to make the change!
Understand the Recycling Process
Recycling can feel like more of a headache than it is – the symbols and sorting rules can be very confusing! But navigating the recycling process is actually a lot easier than you think – all it takes is a little bit of research. Since recycling rules can differ from city to city, look up your local council’s protocols for recycling. Make sure every member of your household, workplace and your rubbish removal driver understand the rules too, so you can make a difference together.
Ditch the Disposables
While zip-lock bags, glad wrap and other plastic can be handy storage solutions, they can also be detrimental – ending up in landfill and harming the environment. If you want to make a big change, stop using these disposables and start getting smart. Swap out these items for sustainable alternatives. Use a silicone baking sheet instead of foil. Swap out disposable wipes for fabric cloth that you can wash in your weekly laundry run. And switch out your paper napkins or paper towel for cloth napkins.
Take a Reusable Bag
With most grocery stores making the move away from single-use bags, you should follow suit and do the same. Taking a reusable bag is one of the easiest ways to reduce the amount of waste you produce. Try cloth bags or simple foldable bags that you can place in your handbag or in the boot of your car for easy access.
Purchase Second Hand
In our consumer culture, it’s so easy to simply add to cart, checkout and receive a parcel to your front door all in a matter of days (and sometimes hours!). Instead of buying brand new clothes, consider investing in secondhand items. You know the saying “one man’s trash is another man’s treasure?” This couldn’t be more true! Plus, you can make the second-hand shopping experience really fun. Gather a bunch of girl friends and spend the day scouring the local thrift stores. You might just find some real gems!
Plus, when it comes to your home or office, you can always shop around for secondhand furniture. Sure, it may need a little dust and wipe. But if you’re into DIY projects, then you can have a lot of fun repurposing your finds.
There you have it, 6 essential tips for reducing waste and cleaning more sustainably. Start employing these ideas today and you can feel confident you’re doing your part to look after the environment.
