A sustainable life looks different for each of us. We all have different needs, values, accessibilities and lifestyles – the areas and cultures we live in also affects how sustainability can be managed. But in general, a sustainable life is mindful of the impact we have on the environment and society. Sustainability stands on three pillars, you can read more about that in this article. When we make choices that promote economic, social and environmental wellbeing, preserving resources for future generations, we achieve a sustainable lifestyle. But it isn’t about perfection.

A sustainable life encompasses lots of different aspects of daily living, including the way we use different resources. Such as the products we buy and use, and the way we live and interact with our environment. It’s an approach that focuses on balance.

Consumption habits

In terms of consumption, sustainable living involves thinking about what we consume, and reducing how much we consume; aka, resources we use like energy, water and non-renewable materials (fossil fuels). We can do this by using energy-efficient appliances, fixing leaks, conserving water and choosing products that are made from sustainable materials. If we have an option to use solar power or wind energy, it’s worth switching electricity suppliers too.

We need to be considerate of the products we buy and the companies we support. When we opt for products that are made from natural, non-toxic ingredients and avoid items that contain harmful chemicals or non-recyclable plastics, we can make a big impact. Supporting companies that have a good environmental track record is a key step on living a more sustainable life. And using what we already have is an important part of this.

Beginning to end to beginning again

Another aspect of living a sustainable life includes thinking about the cycle of products. We should try to think about the start to end; from sourcing of raw materials to the disposal of the final product. Whilst it is often easier to find items that are made with recycled or natural materials, transparency in supply chain isn’t common.

For example, where did the glass that contains a beauty product, come from? Who put it together? And the beauty product, who actually picked the ingredients from farms? Is the soil looked after? Is the item we want to buy made by people who are supported and paid a living wage? And what happens after? Will the item be efficiently recycled and reused once it’s out of use, damaged or no longer needed? Ask lots of questions, find out why and where and how something comes into existence, and whether it leaves a trace.

Let’s keep our hands clean

A sustainable life also includes the way we live and interact with the environment and nature. This can involve things like gardening and composting. Re-evaluating your lifestyle and making changes to incorporate more nature can help you find more sustainable solutions. Connecting with nature has various mental health benefits too. When you see food waste turn to compost that can be used to support plants or local allotments, or that tomato plant grows an actual tomato, you’ll feel a sense of fulfilment. These simple living habits build a relationship with nature in a way you didn’t think was possible.

You don’t even have to garden outside if you don’t want, start small, with a plant and really take care of it. It could be potted flowers, cactus, vegetables, you name it! Bonsai trees are a personal favourite of mine and helped me reconnect with nature as well as myself. Indoor plants bring the natural world inside, and this helps us reinforce that connection and relationship with the earth.

Some examples of what a sustainable life may look like include:

1. Going for walks and stepping into nature once a week can build a deeper connection with the world around us. The more we connect with nature, the more we live a sustainable life.

2. Regularly educating ourselves and spreading awareness about the issues and challenges related to sustainability. Staying informed about environmental and social issues can encourage more change, and it’s even better when we share this information with others.

3. Eating a plant-based diet or reducing consumption of meat and dairy products, which can help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and deforestation.

4. Opting for plants and foods that are grown or produced locally can help to reduce the carbon footprint of transportation and promote local economies.

5. Reducing energy consumption by turning off lights and appliances when you’re not using them. Using energy-efficient appliances and making changes to your home to improve energy efficiency.

6. Making conscious choices about transport; walking, biking or using public transportation, rather than using personal vehicles. This can help to reduce our carbon footprint and lower emissions.

7. Being mindful of the products you use and the companies you support. Choose products that are made from sustainable materials or that are produced in an environmentally-friendly way. Support companies that have a good environmental track record.

8. Reducing waste by composting, recycling and reducing packaging by buying in bulk.

9. Being mindful of water use by conserving water whenever possible. Remember to fix leaks and opt for water-efficient appliances. If water is left out overnight and you don’t want to drink, pour it into a plant!

10. Volunteering or getting involved with local communities and charities that are centred on nature, wildlife and sustainability. This could be helping out in a shop, joining an allotment garden or picking up roadside litter.

There are lots of ways to start living a sustainable life, but it’s important to remember that a sustainable life looks different for everyone. This is a personal and ongoing journey of learning and improvement. The most important thing is to start somewhere, and make changes that align with your own values and lifestyle. The main point is to strive for a balance where you can make thoughtful and gentle decisions.

Overall, living a sustainable life is about being mindful of the impact on the environment and society; it’s about making choices that promote economic, social and environmental wellbeing.

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