Maintaining Eco-Friendly Habits During a Global Pandemic
2020 was one of the most stressful years for the entire world and 2021 has continued to bring a lot of uncertainty to our everyday life with lockdowns, increased hygiene practises, social distancing, tests and vaccinations. The global pandemic completely changed the way we live, in some ways it’s been better for our environment with less commuting and a reduction in emissions but in other ways it’s created more wasteful practices, particularly throw away protective gear and masks that has resulted from necessity. But as we look to the future, we need to look at how we rebuild a more sustainable way of life.
Stop using disposable masks if possible
Face coverings are used once then thrown away, but if you want to help lessen your impact on the environment, you can swap to reusable face coverings. If you shop around, you can find high-quality masks that can still protect you and your loved ones, but they’re durable enough to be washed and reused over and over again. These masks can also be fashionable with their unique designs. You can even make your own if you’re willing to get a little more creative.
It’s recommended that your face mask has at least two fabric layers. This will help provide more protection and ensure that the mask actually works as intended.
Consider buying eco-friendly cleaning tools
More people are taking cleaning more seriously to avoid unnecessary germs and bacteria. We’re more aware of the dangers lurking around than ever before, and this has prompted many of us to invest in cleaning tools to help keep ourselves and our homes safe.
An easy and non-expensive way to live more sustainably is to buy eco-friendly cleaning tools. Focus on reusable items when possible and look for cleaning aids that don’t contain harmful chemicals. There are many eco-friendly cleaners that are strong enough to clean your home while also being affordable. You can even reuse the spray bottles by refilling them with more or making your own cleaning solution from scratch. This can help you save a lot of money and will reduce the waste you produce while also protecting the environment. Not only are eco-friendly products good for the planet, they are also better for you!
Eating a lot of takeout food? Save those containers
During the global pandemic, the number of people ordering food had increased in America and this trend is likely the case for most Western countries around the world. With restaurants closed and the Covid-19 outbreak confining people to their home or being worried about stepping outside due to being vulnerable to the pandemic, more and more people turned to ordering takeaway, resulting in an increase in single use plastic.
Many of these plastic containers can be washed and reused and for those that can’t be reused, if cleaned properly they can likely be recycled. So next time you order takeout, try and avoid creating too much waste by cleaning and reusing or recycling your containers.