How to be Sustainable this Summer
I’m sure everyone is excited to get out this summer after the year we’ve had. We hope everyone is still staying safe and following the rules. In this guide, we will give you a rundown of how you can stay sustainable while enjoying a nice summer’s day out.
Avoid disposable plates
Instead of using disposable plates, cups and cutlery that generate waste, try taking reusable alternatives when you go out for a picnic. Disposable products do consume resources like trees and fossil fuels and they do impact your carbon footprint.
Bring own water bottle
Plastic bottles are one of the contributors to the pollution problem. They require a lot of resources and they cannot be recycled. Keeping your own water bottle allows for reusable water when you travel.
Shop second hand or try ethical clothing brands
Our country has many thrift stores so maybe thrifting could be a fun summer activity with your friends and family. Reusing clothes rather than sending them to waste landfills can help reduce environmental costs. Imagine you’re giving a new life to a piece of clothing that has come to the end of use for the original owner. Fast fashion brands are negatively contributing to waste and pollution. Try to shop from small, ethical brands such as Hundred Line. There are many benefits to buying ethical - the materials used and processes are much more eco-friendly and they will last much longer than clothes you buy from fast fashion brands.
Shop local
Look for farmers markets, street stands, anywhere local; rather than going to large chain stores. You can even grow your own produce if you want to go the extra mile. Conscious efforts to eating local will reduce the carbon footprint of your food. Supporting locals is especially important with the current covid situation where businesses are struggling to compete against big companies. You can also use reusable shopping bags. Support local communities and gain insight into different cultures. Eat local, shop local!!!
Consider transportation
Try to use fuel-efficient sustainable vehicles or make your way to your location by walk or bike. This can make a huge difference to the air pollution and carbon footprint. Be conscious about your modes of transport. Why drive around when you can enjoy and soak in the sun. Don’t forget your mask though.
Eco-friendly sunscreen
So many sunscreen brands and products available. Don’t know what to choose? Find ones that do not contain nasty chemicals that damage natural habitats. Non-toxic sunscreen is better for your skin and the planet.
Turn off your lights/AC when not in use
Why waste power when you’re not using it? It can be tempting to leave the air conditioner on a hot summer’s day. It’s important to turn the lights off and use your air conditioner wisely. Leaving them on will consume energy that is likely produced by fossil fuels which is a factor of why climate change is deteriorating. Take advantage of natural light, open your curtains, go outside, soak in that sun. Open the windows and get some fresh air. NZ is a beautiful green country with so much nature to explore so we need to appreciate it. To help reduce your energy consumption, use nature and line dry your clothes in the sun, instead of a dryer.
The travel industry is the fastest growing in the world. It’s becoming more apparent that we need to make adjustments as we travel in order to reduce our carbon footprint and preserve the environment. We hope you enjoyed these eco-friendly travel tips and learnt that by making a few easy changes, you will be making a huge difference in the longevity of our planet.