Live a sustainable, Earth-friendly life – does the prospect make you feel more stress than inspiration? If so, it might be because, like many people, you’ve let some common misconceptions about sustainability get in the way of making changes in your life. If you’re like most people, you’re overscheduled and pulled in multiple directions, between work, family, and other life obligations. The environment and your role in being a responsible inhabitant of the planet can quickly get pushed to the bottom of priorities as more pressing demands consume our attention.
However, if we’re able to eliminate many of the mental blocks that sabotage our efforts, not only can we contribute to creating a more sustainable world, but we can at the same time make small, impactful changes that contribute to better health and wellness, for ourselves and our families. What are some common sustainability myths? Which of these have you heard someone say? Maybe you’ve said them yourself? Now it’s time for a dose of positive reality!
Myth #1: Eco-Friendly Living is Expensive
It’s understandable to experience sticker shock at the price of some green products and it helps to understand why green products can carry a higher price tag. Some of the factors that contribute to the added cost include:
Economies of scale: Sustainable products don’t enjoy the demand yet for mass production, making raw materials cost more in smaller quantities.
Higher costs for sustainable raw materials: For instance, recycling paper costs more than cutting down trees.
Employee wages: Sustainable companies tend to pay employees fairly while non-sustainable companies tend to pay lower wages.
Certifications: Green products go through rigorous testing processes to ensure that the product is sustainable and obtaining these certifications require additional time, money and resources.
Today, as sustainability becomes more mainstream, there are an increasing number of options for more affordable sustainable products, from homegoods to hygiene. It’s also important to consider the longevity and quality of a product. For instance, although a piece of organic produce might cost a bit more, it may also be a more nutrient-rich variety that’s also free of harmful pesticides. In this light, there’s very little to compare in terms of value.
The US leads the world in food waste, a major environmental problem that contributes to greenhouse gas production. According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, an astounding 40% of food in the US gets thrown away. By buying higher quality produce for instance, and in less quantity, we can ensure we consume all of the food we buy, rather than let it go to waste.
There are dozens of other ways to make sustainability also economical. Some of our favorite include:
Affordable Green Swaps
Small changes can make a big difference. Replace disposable plastic bags with reusable canvas totes. They're sturdy, washable, and last for years, saving you money on buying new bags all the time. Similarly, swap out your old incandescent light bulbs for energy-efficient LEDs. The initial cost might be slightly higher, but LEDs use significantly less energy and last much longer, leading to substantial savings on your wallet over time.
Long-Term Savings
Think beyond the initial cost. Invest in a water-saving showerhead or faucet aerators. These small devices can significantly reduce your water usage, leading to lower water bills. Consider energy-efficient appliances when it's time to replace old ones. While the upfront cost might be higher, the energy savings over their lifespan will outweigh the initial investment.
Sustainable Fashion on a Budget
Eco-friendly fashion doesn't have to break the bank! Here are some tips. Embrace thrift stores and vintage shops. You can find unique and stylish clothes at a fraction of the retail price. Plus, you're giving clothes a second life and reducing demand for new production. Consider focusing more on quality than quantity. Invest in a few well-made, timeless pieces that will last for years. Finally, consider hosting a clothing swap with friends or join online clothing swap communities. You can refresh your wardrobe with new-to-you items without spending a dime.
Myth #2: It’s All or Nothing
Any major lifestyle move can feel overwhelming when you try to make every change all at once. It doesn’t help that the internet and social media in particular can be quite polarizing and make you feel like you’re either eco-friendly or you’re on the other team. It’s not at all like that in reality. So don't feel discouraged if you don’t have every piece of the eco puzzle figured out. We’re all learning and striving toward a better way of living.
Eco-friendly living is about progress, not perfection. Every small step you take towards sustainability makes a difference! Here's why:
Small Wins, Big Impact
Focusing on tiny shifts in your daily routine can lead to a significant environmental impact over time. Think about it - if everyone replaced just one car trip a week with a bike ride or walk, the collective reduction in emissions would be substantial. The Environmental Protection Agency estimates that if we all chose to walk or bike for half of short car trips, there would be a reduction of around 2 million metric tons of CO2 emissions. Not to mention the health benefits of such a switch!
Start Simple, Build Gradually
Instead of feeling overwhelmed by a massive lifestyle change, begin with achievable changes that fit your lifestyle. Maybe you start by swapping out one disposable product for a reusable alternative each month. As you get comfortable with these changes, you can gradually incorporate more sustainable practices into your routine.
Sustainable Eating on a Spectrum
There's no pressure to go all-in on a strict vegan diet. Even small changes to your food choices can make a big difference. Consider incorporating "Meatless Mondays" into your weekly routine, or try exploring vegetarian options for a few meals a week. This is a great way to reduce your meat consumption without completely overhauling your diet.
Consider making trips to the farmers market a part of your regular routine. Not only is this a great way to find nutritious, locally-grown fresh foods, perfect for enhancing your wellness journey, but it can have a significantly smaller carbon footprint, particularly when you base your meal prep around local, organic, and in-season fresh fruits and vegetables.
Remember, sustainability is a journey, not a destination. Celebrate your small wins and focus on making progress over time. Every step you take, however small, brings you closer to a more eco-friendly lifestyle!
Myth #3: It's Too Inconvenient
Packing reusable bags can feel like a hassle, composting food scraps seems messy, and making an additional stop at a refill store sounds like another errand you don’t need added to your to-do list. With limited time and so many tasks on your agenda, it’s understandable to feel like your time is maxed out. But, going green doesn't have to mean sacrificing convenience. There are plenty of ways you can make a difference with minimal effort.
Quick and Easy Swaps
Small changes in your daily routine can make a big impact. Relax in the shower and don’t worry about taking shorter showers to conserve water. Instead, add in a low-flow water-saving showerhead. You can make the same change to your toilet as well. Unplug not frequently used electronics to prevent phantom energy drain - which are like having a bunch of tiny appliances constantly sucking up power even when they're "off." These simple swaps are easy to incorporate into your daily routine and make a big difference over time.
A Growing Green Marketplace
Eco-friendly living is becoming easier than ever! Check to see if your grocery store offers refillable options for household products like dish soap and laundry detergent. This eliminates the need for single-use plastic containers while often offering a more concentrated and cost-effective solution.
Shop Local, Shop Green
Farmers markets are a great way to support local farmers and access fresh, seasonal produce with a smaller carbon footprint from transportation. Many communities also offer community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs, where you can subscribe to receive a regular box of locally-grown fruits and vegetables.
By making small, convenient changes and taking advantage of the growing availability of eco-friendly products and services, you can easily integrate a sustainable lifestyle into your busy routine. Remember, every little bit counts!
Myth #4: I Can't Make a Difference
It can be so disheartening at times to maintain motivation when you feel like you’re one person up against world powers and international corporations who seem above reproach. With a garbage island floating in the Pacific Ocean that’s twice the size of Texas and reports that Earth is “outside of its safe operating space for humanity,” (according to a 2023 study published in the journal Science Advances) it’s easy to want to throw in your reusable organic towel. But don’t give up hope just yet!
Never underestimate the power of individual action. The collective impact of millions of people making small changes can be truly transformative!
Strength in Numbers
While a single person might seem insignificant, when countless individuals around the world take action, the results can be monumental. Imagine if everyone committed to reducing their plastic use or planting a single tree. The cumulative impact would be tremendous.
Find Your Voice
There are many ways to get involved! Support eco-friendly businesses, write to your local representatives about environmental issues, or volunteer your time for a cause you care about. Join local meetups from park cleanups to vegan dinner clubs. While it might be awkward to give a speech to a friend about the importance of sustainability (who wants an unsolicited lecture?), role modeling sustainable behavior, like avoiding plastic, bringing your own take-out container, or suggesting a walk-able meeting destination, can leave a lasting impression.
Myth #5: Eco-Friendly Products Don't Work as Well
It’s sad to say, but the truth is there is a lot of false information about sustainable products, many times disseminated by industries which have an interest in maintaining the status quo. Big oil for instance has long waged a disinformation war against steps to reverse climate change. Most recently, as an investigation from the nonpartisan policy institute The Center for American Progress reported, this has come in the form of smear campaigns against renewable energy sources such as offshore wind farms.
On the consumer level, we’ve been inundated with misinformation on everything, for instance, the poor performance of eco-friendly cleaning products. But before you believe that you can’t have the best of both worlds – in this case quality and sustainability – make sure you review your source for product information and get all the facts before overlooking some excellent products.
Green Doesn't Have to Mean Compromise
There's a misconception that eco-friendly products are less effective than their conventional counterparts. The good news is, innovation in sustainability is booming, leading to high-performing products that are good for the planet and good for you! This goes for cleaning products, detergents, and makeup. Just remember to watch out for “green-washing” where marketing jargon is used in place of actual sustainable ingredients.
Going Green Doesn't Mean Sacrificing Performance
Many sustainable alternatives perform just as well, if not better, than traditional products. For example, advancements in LED technology have resulted in energy-efficient bulbs that are just as bright and long-lasting as incandescents. Similarly, eco-friendly cleaning products formulated with plant-based ingredients can be just as effective as harsh chemical cleaners.
Look for Certifications
To ensure quality and effectiveness, look for certifications from reputable organizations. These certifications verify that products meet specific environmental and social responsibility standards. Some popular certifications include:
- B Corp: businesses that meet the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, public transparency, and legal accountability to balance profit and purpose
- Fairtrade: Fairtrade changes the way trade works through better prices, decent working conditions and a fairer deal for farmers and workers in developing countries.
- USDA Certified Biobased Product: Ensures a product contains a verified biobased content.
- Forest Stewardship Council (FSC): Promotes responsible forest management practices.
- ENERGY STAR: Identifies energy-efficient appliances and electronics.
Do Your Research
Many resources can help you find reliable sustainable products. Consumer Reports offers eco-friendly product reviews, and online directories like Green America and the Environmental Working Group list companies committed to sustainability.
Remember, every individual has the power to make a positive impact and every small action counts. By taking action, you become part of a global movement working towards a healthier planet!
Photo by @Singkham on Pexels. Photo by Singkham: https://www.pexels.com/photo/clear-light-bulb-planter-on-gray-rock-1108572/Photo by Singkham: https://www.pexels.com/photo/clear-light-bulb-planter-on-gray-rock-1108572/