What is Sustainable Living?
What does sustainable living mean for the US?
We’re only a month into 2021 but the US has already put sustainability and Eco-goals at the top of the agenda. January has seen President Biden put a focus on climate change with a set of executive orders calling this the ‘time to act’. So with the Biden administration stepping up for environmental justice, it’s time to address what sustainable living is and how it can be reflected in your own life.
Search: Define Sustainable Living
To live sustainably is something we can all have a part to play. It focuses on the choices and behaviors that enhance our lives – whilst caring for the environment and living within our means. This shouldn’t be a scary concept! It can mean small changes in the way we do things. These can make a big difference in the impact you have on the environmental landscape.
Resources
It will not come as a surprise, that the earth’s natural resources are finite. The things that power our lifestyle will eventually run out if we continue depleting them at the rate we are. This is why investment into renewable energy is vital, finding cost-effective and safe alternatives is at the forefront of the sustainable living movement. However, we have the power to change things in our own homes by simply reducing the amount of electric, gas, and water we use.
Carbon Footprint
Inextricably linked to resources is your carbon footprint. This is the total of greenhouse gas emissions (Carbon dioxide and Methane) that are created by an individual or product or organization. These emissions are absorbed by the atmosphere and are a major contributor to climate change. Now the Earth can deal with some emissions, however, modern living has increased. The average person in the US carbon footprint is now 16 tons – 12 tons higher than the global average!
5 Efficient Changes You Can Make Now!
1. Cut the power!
Remember to unplug your electrical items when they’re not in use and turn off lights when you’re not in the room. You can also look for energy-efficient bulbs and goods such as refrigerators.
2. Water Wars.
Simple actions can go a long way. Turning the faucet off when brushing your teeth; having a quick shower and restricting laundry or dishwashers can all reduce your water usage.
3. Reuse, Recycle, Reduce
Zero waste can seem like a big goal but reducing your waste can help you live more sustainably. Look around your own house for forgotten gems that you can give a new lease of life. Avoid plastics and packaging that cannot be recycled. Reduce the number of products and food you bring into your house, really ask yourself whether you need it!
4. Slow Fashion
Fast fashion is one of the most problematic polluters in the world right now. As consumers, we can stop thousands of tons of waste from reaching landfills and polluting textiles from being expelled into your environment. Think green with your money! All of our products are made with unused materials and are made with longevity and durability in mind. Browse our shop here. (link: https://knotzland.com/shopall). We have bowties, masks, and more!
5. The Best Foot Forward
Carbon emissions from transportation all contribute to your carbon footprint. Consider a holiday closer to home So look for alternatives such as walking, cycling and car-sharing – a small sacrifice for a big reward! Please stay safe and follow your local restrictions.
Everyone's sustainability journey will look different, do not feel discouraged! Subscribe to our newsletter here (link to the newsletter sign up) and learn more about what sustainable living means and how you can implement some tips into your life.