5 Helpful Tips For Eco-Conscious Shopping

Improving climate change and working to preserve our planet has never been more important. If we wish to see a better future for the next generations, we must be willing to make conscious efforts toward living more sustainably. Even small actions make a big impact; the first step toward change is knowing what you can do to help.

One simple way we can do better is through eco-conscious shopping. Being more mindful of the things we buy and how we buy them can make a huge difference in our contribution to our landfills and carbon emissions- meaning cleaner air and cleaner earth.

The helpful tips below are easy to understand and easy to implement in your daily life. They don't require too much effort and can quickly become a part of your normal shopping routine.

If you desire to live more sustainably and shop better for the environment, here are 5 tips for eco-conscious shopping:

1. Shop only for what you need or truly want

We’ve all been there- tempted by the many sales and promotions going on around us. While these sales can be great opportunities, they can also lead to impulse buying and a big pileup of unwanted items later. You may have even found yourself ‘adding to cart’ just to get discounts or free shipping, even when you have no use for any of those extra items you’ve just bought.

When considering a purchase, ask yourself these questions:

• “Do I really want this?”

• “Do I already have something similar to this at home?”

• “Can I wait to purchase this?”

• “Will I use this product often?”

Another way to avoid unnecessary purchases in the future is by making a list for the things you’re going to shop for ahead of time. By sticking to a list you decrease the chance of overspending and can accurately see what it is you truly want.

2. Buy sustainable products

Search for eco-conscious alternatives. Find out if the item you’re looking to buy is ethically sourced, made with recycled or partially-recycled materials, and is produced sustainably. This means that the product can be made without compromising the future of people and natural resources. Making the switch to more sustainable products is a great way to help the preservation of our environment. 

3. Invest in quality over quantity

Better-quality goods last much longer than lower-quality ones. This can mean spending a little more on the higher-end version of a product, but it’s ultimately worth your investment. When you invest in a better product, you won’t have to replace it as much.

4. Consider reusable products 

Purchasing reusable products is another great way of reducing your landfill contribution. Avoid single-use products like paper towels and consider buying products that don’t need to be replaced after every use. A reusable dishcloth is a great alternative since it can be used over and over again. Reusable planners and organizers are also excellent examples, given that they don’t need to be completely replaced, just refilled with new inserts. Refills usually cost less than a whole new item anyway, so it helps you save, too!

5. Make purchases from reputable brands

Do your research into reputable and sustainable brands. See if they offer eco-friendly products, make donations to charities and conservation projects, or if they prioritize clean energy in their production process. When you shop with eco-conscious businesses, you can feel good that your money is going to a good place and that your purchases are creating a positive impact on the planet.

Shopping can still be fun and gratifying, just with a few extra mindful steps. When we make a collective effort towards creating change, we inspire others to do the same. As we bring more awareness to sustainable living, we are helping to contribute to a better world and better future for those who will be here after us.

Want to learn more? 

We invite you to read our article “5 Luxury Fashion Designers You Didn't Know Were Eco-Friendly”