Now that you’ve learned to recognize what you really like and actually need, it’s time to form healthy buying habits. Well, almost…
Organizing and Storing
First, by following a few simple steps, you can start organizing and storing your things in a way that not only looks great but also continues to reduce clutter and makes your space much more enjoyable. And in such a way that’s earth- conscious, too!
Storing your things in a visually pleasing way can work wonders for your living space. It’ll make you proud of what you’ve got, which means you’re more likely to keep it all tidy and organized. You’ll also be able to see what you have more clearly, which can reduce the urge to buy more stuff.
A well-organized storage solution can also help you decide what to keep and what to let go of. When you can easily see everything you own, it’s easier to take care of it all too, and you’ll likely feel more attached to them and want to treat them with more care.
The best part? By choosing storage solutions that reflect your personal style and preferences, you can create a space that feels unique to you. No more buying things that don’t fit your style!
But what about sustainability? When you choose storage containers made from eco-friendly and sustainable materials, you’re not only doing the planet a solid, but you’re also helping to reduce waste in your own home.
so, when you’re on the hunt for eco-friendly storage containers, keep these factors in mind:
- Material: Go for containers made from eco-friendly materials like glass, bamboo, stainless steel, or natural fibers like cotton or hemp. Avoid plastics, especially those made from non-renewable resources or that are difficult to recycle.
- Recyclability: Choose containers that are easy to recycle or compost at the end of their life. Make sure to check with your local recycling facility to see which materials they accept.
- Durability: Pick containers that are well-made and built to last. That way, you can reuse them many times, reducing the need for disposable options.
- Size and shape: Choose containers that are the right size and shape for your needs. Larger containers can help reduce the amount of packaging and waste associated with food storage, while stackable options can save space in your kitchen.
- Packaging: Look for containers that come with minimal packaging, and choose brands that prioritize sustainable packaging options.
- Certifications: Look for containers that are certified by independent organizations, like the Forest Stewardship Council https://fsc.org/en/fsc-certified-product-showcase (or find FSC-certified products on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/s?i=specialty-aps&srs=21417082011&qid=1599933760&ref=sr_pg_1) or the Cradle to Cradle Certification, which ensure that products are made using sustainable practices. Here is a list of all the Climate Pledge Friendly certifications on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/b?node=21221608011
- Ethics: Choose brands that prioritize fair labor practices and environmental sustainability in their manufacturing processes.
now, let’s talk about some of the eco-friendly materials you can find in storage containers:
- Glass: reusable, recyclable, and doesn’t leach harmful chemicals into your food.
- Bamboo: grows quickly, biodegradable, and can be reused many times.
- Stainless steel: durable, non-toxic, and can be recycled at the end of its life.
- Natural fibers: biodegradable and can be composted at the end of their life.
- Wood: biodegradable and can be reused many times, especially if made from sustainably harvested wood.
- Ceramic: durable, reusable, and can be recycled or repurposed at the end of its life.
- Recycled materials: using recycled materials helps reduce waste and conserve resources.
These are just a few examples of the eco-friendly materials you can find in storage containers. So go ahead… Pick storage solutions that not only look good and help you feel more organized and uncluttered, but also make you feel good about what you’re doing for the planet!
