Creating Waves of Change: 10 Sustainable Practices You Can Adopt
Written on
Chapter 1: The Call for Change
Change can take on many forms:
Innovative.
Intimidating.
Exciting.
Impactful.
Even the smallest adjustments can create significant ripples. My lifelong passion for the ocean sparked a commitment to combat plastic pollution after realizing its alarming impact during my teenage years. Since then, I've dedicated myself to raising awareness and taking action to prevent ocean pollution, safeguarding not only our seas but also our beaches and marine wildlife, contributing to the overall health of our planet.
As I previously mentioned, small changes can lead to significant impacts. You don't need to achieve perfection or implement everything at once. In fact, had I attempted to make all these changes simultaneously, I would have likely felt overwhelmed. The reality is that these transformations took time and effort, and I have never regretted any of them. I take pride in knowing I'm doing my part to create a better environment for future generations, ensuring they can experience the beauty of our planet firsthand. I don’t want my children to just read about polar bears, orangutans, or whales in books or see them in simulations years from now; I want them to see these magnificent creatures thriving in the wild.
As Anne Marie Bonneau wisely stated, "We don't need a handful of people doing zero waste perfectly; we need millions of people doing it imperfectly."
Here are ten ways I've made ripples that can turn into waves for change:
Section 1.1: Eliminating Single-Use Plastics
One of my first steps was to eliminate plastic straws, disposable utensils, and takeout containers. This was an easy choice for me, even before straw bans became popular, and it opened the door to a more eco-friendly lifestyle. I discovered Mermaid Straw, a small business dedicated to creating reusable straws and other sustainable products.
Did you know that Americans use around 500 million straws daily? Mermaid Straw aims to reduce that figure while promoting plastic-free packaging and ocean cleanup initiatives. Surprisingly, disposable chopsticks often contain harmful chemicals like sulfur and hydrogen peroxide. Mermaid Straw offers a great solution with their reusable chopsticks, straws, cups, and more.
Additionally, they organize regular beach cleanups across the U.S., which is a fantastic way to raise awareness and keep our coastlines clean.
The first video provides insights into common mistakes people make regarding their environmental impact and offers solutions to improve your eco-friendly practices.
Section 1.2: Mindful Consumption
I used to overlook packaging when shopping, believing that recycling was sufficient. However, I soon learned that many of the products I purchased came in non-recyclable packaging. In the U.S., we generated approximately 292.4 million tons of Municipal Solid Waste, with only 32.1% being recycled.
This realization prompted me to shop more mindfully, focusing on purchasing unpackaged produce, frequenting farmers' markets, and avoiding clamshell packaging. I look forward to using a local refill store if one opens nearby.
Section 1.3: Ditching Disposable Storage
While giving up straws was a positive step, I also needed to address my storage habits. Each year, over 100,000 marine animals die due to plastic ingestion and entanglement. Many of these issues stem from land-based sources of pollution.
I found reusable options like Lunchskins, which are eco-friendly alternatives to plastic bags and wraps. They’re durable, easy to clean, and come in various styles. Another fantastic option is Beeswax Wraps, which can even be made at home.
Section 1.4: Simplifying Bathroom Products
Cleaning up my bathroom routine was an enjoyable venture. We switched from plastic toothpaste tubes to Bite toothpaste bits, which come in a glass jar, significantly reducing waste. We also replaced traditional toothbrushes with bamboo versions and ditched cotton swabs.
The second video explores practical steps that individuals can take to contribute positively to the environment, emphasizing personal responsibility and community action.
Chapter 2: Cleaning and Fashion
Section 2.1: Eco-Friendly Cleaning
Finding suitable cleaning products was challenging due to my sensitivity to strong scents. Fortunately, I discovered Blueland, which offers reusable glass bottles and plastic-free refills. This system minimizes waste while still keeping my home clean.
I also switched to Hipposak garbage bags made from sugarcane, which are renewable and recyclable.
Section 2.2: Sustainable Fashion Choices
While I occasionally purchase new clothing, I prioritize secondhand shopping for most of my family's needs. The fashion industry contributes significantly to pollution, producing 13 million tons of textile waste each year, with 95% of it being recyclable or reusable.
I recently bought a beautiful evening dress at a thrift store for a fraction of its original price, proving that sustainable choices can be both stylish and budget-friendly.
Section 2.3: Food and Garden Practices
Being mindful of food choices is crucial, particularly concerning fertilizers that contribute to harmful algal blooms. These blooms can deplete oxygen in aquatic ecosystems, leading to dead zones where marine life cannot survive. As a conscientious shopper, I emphasize eating a diverse diet, reducing food waste, and supporting sustainable agriculture.
I also encourage planting small gardens to donate food to local pantries or community initiatives, which helps support those in need while promoting sustainability.
Section 2.4: Getting Involved
Engaging in community efforts is one of the best ways to learn and contribute to positive change. Many threats to our oceans stem from pollution, and the ocean is projected to contain more plastic than fish by 2050 if we don’t take action.
Raising awareness through writing, organizing cleanups, and advocating for sustainable practices can inspire others to join the movement for change.
Your Time for Change
Every small effort contributes to a healthier planet. Whether volunteering at wildlife centers, participating in beach cleanups, or simply making conscious consumer choices, every action counts. Together, we can ensure our oceans and ecosystems thrive for generations to come.
In conclusion, I remain hopeful that with time, awareness, and love for our planet, we can create waves of change that will allow us to cherish the beauty of our oceans and the life they harbor.