- Re-evaluate your buying habits. Being locked-down at home has somewhat forced us to spend more meaningful time with ourselves. It has also been an awakening; proving that we don’t need much of anything in excess for survival. In reality; even the greenest garments require resources to be produced. So before you buy, ask yourself if you really need it. Remember these fundamentals of sustainability “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle”.
- Shop Sustainable Brands. These are brands implementing eco-friendly techniques. Brands that make their products better suited to preserve the environment and limit their carbon footprints. Some of my favorite Lifestyle sustainable brands are Island Tribe, Imbodhi, Pact, Cuyana, Dazey LA, Eileen Fisher, Boody, Patagonia, and Reformation.
- Staying Green at Home. To combat the spread of COVID-19, we’ve all been advised to “Stay Home, Stay Safe”. This has been the cleanest moment of the industrial world in many years with fewer emissions from machines and human activities. There are lots of other little things we can do to further reduce our carbon footprints. Here are a few helpful green Tips:
- Open your curtains and use natural light.
- Switch your lightbulbs to energy-efficient models.
- Stop using disposable bags. Use reusable bags.
- Wash laundry in cold water instead of hot.
- Your food waste can be put into a composter, rather than a landfill in plastic bags.
- Resell and Donate Items. Now is a good time to gather garments that no longer serves us. Try reselling your clothing to a secondhand or consignment shop. Consider donating some to a nonprofit organization such as Goodwill or your local non-profits that will redistribute them to those in need. Additionally, if you have some clothing that is not repairable, don’t throw them away in the normal bins. Most of these could consist of synthetic, non-biodegradable fiber which would ultimately pile up in landfills with plastics. Consider placing them in textile recycling bins. Textiles can be recycled to make new clothing.
- Stay informed. Use the extra time during social distancing to learn more about Sustainable Movement Platforms that are taking the lead on making the world a better place. Platforms such as the Sustainable Fashion Forum, Sustainable Apparel Coalition, Fashion Revolution and Good on You are great resources. Follow their socials for more insights.
Along with the severe health crisis caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, brands and especially small businesses are facing enormous business challenges: The shrinking customer demand, supply chain interruptions, and increased uncertainty etc. These sustainability champions need you now, more than ever. Shop and follow their socials to support the green movement.
The COVID-19 pandemic is a reminder that we’re all part of nature and are responsible to protecting and nurturing it. This is a pivotal time to step back and take a different viewpoint on how we can all make adjustments to our lifestyles by opting for a brighter, greener future.
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