LIFE

Happy Earth Day, green goddesses! 🌎🌱🌼 We love a dedicated day to show some love to our planet—but tbh, we should be taking steps to care for our beautiful home *every* day of the year. Here are a couple of easy (and actually fun) ways to prioritize sustainability in your daily life this spring...and beyond.

1. Shop sustainably 

@mikaelasentner Spring clothing has my heart 🎀 shop @decades apart for these pieces (live 03.6.23) #outfitideas #thriftedvstyled #whatithriftedvshowistyledit #tryonhaul #tryonthrifthaul #springfashion #outfitinspo ♬ Say, Can You Hear - Men I Trust

We're gonna give it to you plain and simple: The fashion industry is a huge contributor to greenhouse gas emissions, plastic pollution and water pollution. One way to lessen your impact is to research a brand's environmental policies before you shop. (Sorry to break it to you, but this means staying away from fast fashion brands.) An even better (and more affordable) option is to buy your clothes second-hand (hello, thrifting + consignment) or from small businesses in your neighborhood.

Related: Your sustainable spring style guide

2. Organize a neighborhood clean-up

 
@sarah.maggie

One easy way to make a difference (while enjoying a beautiful spring day, win-win) is to host a neighborhood clean-up (or head to your fave beach, hiking trail or park). Gather up your gals or family members, grab some gloves and trashbags from the hardware store and take a few hours to pick up litter. Bring a portable speaker plus some snacks, and you might ~actually~ make cleaning fun.

3. Start composting 

@zerowastecartel Composting is simpler than you think! You can start even if you don’t have a big backyard. Not only is composting an eco-friendly way to reduce your carbon footprint, but it can also help you save money on fertilizers and create a healthier, happier garden. 🌿🌎 #sustainableliving #zerowasteliving #compost #composting #foodwaste ♬ HOME - elfixsounds

Composting is an easy-peasy green habit that you can incorporate into your current trash routine. (FYI, food waste contributes to greenhouse gas emissions.) Want to grow your own vegetable garden this summer? Well, now's the perfect time to start a composting garden. Don't have a lot of extra space in your fam's apartment? A composting bin is probably the way to go. Just remember to always check the labels on items such as wipes, cups and disposable silverware to make sure they're compostable.

4. Go to farmers markets 

@nataliezacek

Grocery shopping from local farmers can have a meaningful impact on the environment and your community. A huge amount of pollution comes from large factory farms that are often not managed sustainably or ethically—not to mention the pollution that comes from shipping the food across the country. By shopping from local farmers, you can support the people in your community, lessen your environmental impact and have fun doing it (srsly, who doesn't love wandering around the farmers market, sundress on and coffee in hand?). Just remember to bring a few reusable totes for all your goodies.

5. Stay up to date on climate news 

@greenpeace_bc

Our understanding of the world around us and how we can best care for it is constantly changing—and so are the policies surrounding the topic. Pay attention to climate-related news and learn about all of the ways you can protect the Earth and decrease your carbon footprint. By staying knowledgeable, you can teach the people around you what they can do to help.  

Happy Earth Day, girlie! 🌷🐝♻️🌸

Top image: @lexihidalgo 
Slider image: @nataliezacek

by Alex Marek | 4/22/2024