As the temperature becomes brisk and the nights get colder, there are plenty of simple ways to sustainably prepare for the change in season, from putting on an eco-friendly coat to getting a reusable mug for that hot chocolate you just can’t get enough of. Even in the chilly winter season, you can keep things green with these easy and effective tips.
Bonus: We’ve also included some amazing sustainable gifting ideas to help you find the perfect present for your loved ones. Read on to discover them.
1. Become energy-efficient
Both gas and electricity involve burning fossil fuels. You can make a smart choice by using less energy. It reduces carbon emissions and helps combat climate change as well as global warming.
To save energy at home, try turning your heating down by just one degree – it will benefit the environment and could cut down your bills too. You can take your energy saving to the next level by fitting LED bulbs (they consume 80% less energy than conventional bulbs), turning off standby appliances, and upgrading to a smart thermostat. Always ensure that adapters and small appliances are all unplugged.
Also, consider the old-fashioned way of bundling up with an extra layer of clothing while at home before turning up that thermostat an extra degree.
2. Avoid water wastage
As tempting as a long hot shower during winter sounds, it’s best to try and avoid it. Hot showers aren’t just a waste of water, they can also dry out your skin. We recommend you keep your showers as short as possible and try turning off the water whilst scrubbing or shampooing.
Say goodbye to dry skin with these products that will keep you moisturized all day long.
3. Stay warm with a recycled wardrobe
The fashion industry currently makes up 10% of the world’s annual carbon emissions and is estimated to use around 1.5 trillion liters of water every year. So, instead of buying a new winter coat or knitted jumper, look in your wardrobe to see if you have any old clothes that could do the job just as well. If you have enough winter garments to get you through the chillier months, try to resist the urge to upgrade your wardrobe.
If you are in dire need of new clothing, research the brand you are thinking about buying from to find out if their clothing and packaging is produced sustainably. It’s possible for you to avoid fur, for real! Nowadays, a lot of vegan and cruelty-free coats, jackets, and sweaters have made their way into the markets.
You can find some amazing pieces from the winter collection on our website too!
You can also look out for spaces that enable you to buy and sell verified preloved garments, online or offline, like Relove on Suspire. Such platforms enable you to buy good quality second-hand clothing and avoid wastage. You can also sell clothes that you’re unlikely to wear. This way, you earn money, help someone make an eco-friendly purchase, and become part of a sustainable clothing system
4. Walk whenever possible
When it is cold, we tend to stay inside and nestle in our beds or on the couch. This is cozy and nice, of course, but the cold weather shouldn’t stop you from enjoying the day!
Step out the door for a walk in nature. It is one of the best times of the year to go outside! Walking shorter distances is not just a great form of exercise, but if you do it as a form of commute it helps reduce your carbon emissions as well!.
5. Cozy up with Conscious Gifting
Be it Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, or Valentine’s Day, winter is the ultimate season to give gifts to your loved ones. An extra 30% of rubbish is generated during the festive period, owing to increased production of wrapping paper, ribbons, gift bags, etc. Most of it ends up in landfills and oceans. You change this by taking a small but important step in the right direction.
Ensure you buy vegan, cruelty-free, and ethically sourced gifts that are perfect for your loved ones and the planet too. Wondering where you’ll find them?
Don’t stress! We’ve got you covered. Check out the exclusive gifting range from 90+ sustainable and eco-friendly brands on our website now!
Other little things like reusing old wrapping paper or gift bags and choosing eco-friendly paper tape instead of a plastic one can make big differences too.
