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5 simple steps to more earth-friendly living

By Promila Shastri

Going green may sometimes feel like a prospect so intimidating, it can often become a stressor. But, in fact, by making a few simple changes to daily habits, transitioning to a more eco-friendly life can be both stress-free and joyful.

The kitchen is an ideal place to start making changes, since it’s where avoidable waste typically occurs. Whether it’s at the grocery store, during food preparation, or when tackling the post-meal cleanup, a more thoughtful approach to food shopping and preparation can pay dividends in a number of ways, reducing a single household’s carbon footprint dramatically. Beyond the kitchen, there are a slew of ways to practice eco-consciousness, and tread more lightly on the earth.

Disposable grocery bags, be gone! The structured form of these handsome reusable canvas totes prevents slouching or tipping over, and the roomy volume of each bag is equivalent to that of 6 plastic grocery bags. When not in use, the Green Bulldog Reusable Grocery Bag folds down flat, neatly fitting into car seat pocket or kitchen drawer.
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Is there any such thing as too many hand towels? Choosing eco-friendly materials is easier than ever with these light and fluffy hand towels made from sustainably sourced bamboo. Whether outfitting master bath or guest bathroom, add a dash of earth-friendly flair with absorbent hand towels that spell both clean and green.
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Plastic is not only forever, it often contains harmful chemicals that can leech into food, and eventually into the environment. Whether throwing a last-minute soiree, or stopping for a roadside snack, opt for BPA-free eating utensils that, though ultimately disposable, can be discarded safely. Keep them on hand for those take-out dinner nights, or store them in the car for on-the-go snacking.
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One of the best ways to live sustainably is to buy well made, high quality products that are built to last. These handsome salad servers are hand crafted from slow growing olive wood, and designed to age with grace. The ideal complement to any salad presentation, the Tramanto Salad Server set is a surefire heirloom piece to be handed down for generations.
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The catastrophic environmental impact of disposable mugs and water bottles is well documented. Replace those throwaway coffee mugs with one that’s both stylish and travels well. This lidded ceramic mug is designed to keep your coffee hot, and looks good enough to take to the office and into the boardroom. Best of all, it doubles as a water carafe, perfect for staying hydrated without leaving a mark on the environment.
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There are, of course, many other, more lofty elements to living more sustainably—from being an informed, discerning consumer, to supporting organic farming practices—but thinking small is the most practical way to ensure any lasting lifestyle changes. By setting clear, attainable goals, the chances of becoming overwhelmed and frustrated by the enormity of any pressing issue are quickly lessened.

The 5 simple, eco-friendly steps, listed above, are sure to have an immediate impact on daily living, and are a reminder that modest improvements to long-established habits can have sizable consequences, for both the planet and to one’s personal wellbeing.

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Promila Shastri
Promila is a New York-based writer, editor, and content creator, whose focus is on visual culture—product design…
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