When you organize and declutter, you will inevitable ask the question: So... how much do I get rid of? Figuring out that answer for my life, led me to learning about minimalism and living sustainably. The combination of these is called eco-minimalism. I'm not sure if she coined the term or not, but I first learned about eco-minimalism from Shelbizleee on YouTube.
Now, taking care of the planet, reducing my unsustainable waste, and simply buying and living with less, have become important aspects of who I am.
Weather you want to save money, help the planet, travel more, have a simpler life, or just do what is right, eco-minimalism is how to get you there. It's a process. And it is easy to look back and realize you did so much wrong. So, to help you out, here is a list of things I've learned while going on this journey:
DON'T BUY SUSTAINABLE SWAPS in the first month or two. You don't need the eco-friendly swaps to get started. I promise. As you start learning and researching (I recommend YouTube & blogs), you will start to think you need metal straws, a cute new water bottle, and a cute cutlery set for on the go. But you probably don't. Just say no to straws, use an old water bottle you already have, and take metal silverware from home. Always use what you have first.
MAKE A WISH LIST. To help you out with #1, make a wish list of anything you want or need. Then when a month or two has gone by, see if that purchase really makes sense and will help you be more sustainable. Only buy when you are replacing something you actually use or when you realize it would make you truly happier to have something new.
SEE IF ANYONE YOU KNOW HAS ONE. Now, before you even hit the stores, ask around to see if any family or friends have one they don't need. You can either keep it, or just borrow it, depending on how long you need it for. Not only will this save you money, it will also help those you know declutter & make your relationships stronger.
CAN YOU FIND ONE FOR FREE OR MAKE YOUR OWN? If no one you know has one, consider looking on social media or in your community for one. This is especially good for furniture and other large items people need to get rid of fast if they are moving. Or maybe make it yourself? Do you need a new cutting board? Consider buying/finding a piece of wood and then cutting it and prepping it yourself.
BUY SECOND HAND. Before you go and buy one brand new, consider if you could find it at a thrift or antique store. This makes it cheaper for you and keeps other people's previously decluttered items from going to landfill.
BUY FROM A SUSTAINABLE BRAND. Before you go to a regular store to purchase an item, look online or in your local community for ethical, sustainable brands to purchase from. They also tend to be better quality so there is another plus.
BUY QUALITY. Speaking of quality, it's always best to buy a good quality item rather than a cheap one. It will last you longer so you don't have to repurchase anytime soon.
DON'T BEAT YOURSELF UP. Quality and sustainable products can be pretty pricey. As a poor college student, I understand that. So, just do your best. If you end up buying it off Amazon instead of Earthhero (although they are pretty affordable), it's okay. And, if you forget to refuse a straw, make some impulse buys, or leave your reusable bags at home AGAIN (for the 5th time), it's okay. Just keep trying. Giving up on eco-minimalism is so much worse than just making one or two small changes every few months. Just keep trying. You are making a difference.
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