In a world where sustainability is becoming more and more important, it’s important to constantly be looking for ways to reduce our environmental footprint with eco-friendly swaps to items we use daily. However, a lot of times, sustainable items come with a higher price tag, which makes it seem like going green is only for those who have a bigger budget. The truth is, there are plenty of low-cost and effective alternatives when it comes to sustainable products that work just as well for your wallet, and the planet. In this article, we’ll highlight some great eco-friendly swaps that might actually help you save money, while also helping the environment.
Firstly, investing in a good long lasting stainless steel water bottle, although expensive at first, can last you years, saving you hundreds of dollars on single-use plastic bottles (which take hundreds of years to decompose in landfills). This not only reduces plastic pollution, but also saves you loads of money and keeps your drinks hot or cold in any temperature. Next, switching from incandescent light bulbs to LED bulbs helps conserve electricity and reduce your carbon footprint. LED bulbs use 75% less energy than incandescent bulbs, while also lasting you much longer, reducing the need to repurchase light bulbs as frequently.
Another great swap is using beeswax wraps instead of plastic wraps. Beeswax wraps are made from only organic materials, like organic cotton, beeswax and jojoba oil, which are fully biodegradable and non-toxic. These wraps can be used hundreds of times, reducing the amount of single use plastic waste generated by plastic wraps, and eliminating the need to buy more. When worn out, they can be composted, making them much more sustainable than plastic. The next swap might be surprising- using a bidet significantly reduces your reliance on toilet paper, which is made from trees and is mass-produced, contributing to deforestation. Not only is it a bidet cleaner, it uses water for cleaning and reduces the need to purchase as much toilet paper, leading to less waste.
Next, a great affordable swap is using DIY cleaning products instead of store-bought cleaners. DIY cleaners can be made out of household ingredients like vinegar, baking soda, and lemon juice, which are non-toxic, biodegradable, and most likely already in your house! By making them yourself, you’re avoiding excessive packaging and reducing chemical exposure, while also saving money. Lastly, switching from disposable razors to refillable razors or safety razors can also reduce your overall plastic waste, as well as saving you money. Safety razors are built to last for years, cutting down the need for constant replacements, and refillable razors, although made of plastic, are much more sustainable as only a small part needs to be replaced.
In conclusion, while some sustainable products use clever marketing ploys to get you to spend more on something that doesn’t actually make a difference, some green products are worth investing in, offering you long-term savings and genuine environmental benefits. The key to a sustainable and affordable lifestyle is finding a balance- picking swaps that work for your budget but also align with your values.
