Is shopping sustainably really important to saving the planet?

Sustainability has become a buzzword on social media these days. With mainstream retailers jumping into the fray, it is hard to miss the sustainability conversation. . After all, people around the world are becoming conscious of global environmental issues along with the long & short term impact,

The term 'sustainable' often leads to the climate change conversation and positive and negative impacts of our actions on the planet, which is why most shoppers only associate it with climate change.. However, there is more to sustainability than climate change.

As a conscious consumer, looking to make a change and living a sustainable lifestyle, we would like to know more about what you think.

Sustainability essentially is  about sustaining the world we live in so that our future generation could enjoy the same things as we do today. In other words, our practices to meet the needs and demands should not compromise the ability of our future generations to meet their necessities and requirements.

The entire concept of sustainability stands on three solid pillars - the environment, the economic, and the social. Simply put, when you shop for any product, it should not only be eco-friendly, but it must also be ethically made and long-lasting.

To begin a sustainable lifestyle, making a conscious choice every time you shop is essential. Shopping green not only minimises your contribution to the world's carbon footprint and lowers the environmental impact but also makes for great cost savings. .

For instance, when you choose organic cotton over the one that is grown and manufactured conventionally, you make an environmentally conscious choice. Organic cotton is not treated with chemicals like pesticides and herbicides, and therefore, doesn't contaminate soil, water, and air. Besides, it uses less water and energy and produces fewer greenhouse gases, which eventually mitigates carbon emissions' harmful effects.

Another excellent way to incorporate sustainability into your everyday life is by replacing household items with eco-friendly products. Mango wood, for instance, is an alternative to oak, cedar, maple, and other traditional wood.

Grown in Southeast Asia, India, Mexico, Brazil, and Australia, it supports sustainability as mango trees as constantly planted for the fruit.

With sustainable shopping, you promote the welfare of farmers, workers, and artisans living in developing countries. Fairtrade  organisations ensure all workers and artisans are fairly paid for their work after an open discussion. They also support a safe working environment for workers and discourage the concept of child labour and forced labour.

Here are a few practices you can adopt to become a more sustainable shopper:

1. Switch to products made from sustainable material and are reusable

Before you add something to your cart, take a moment to decide whether the product is responsibly produced and resourced or not. Look for organic products that are free from harmful chemicals like organic cotton. Responsible shoppers can also consider buying Fair Trade products - that are ethically made and sourced.

2. Minimise plastic waste

We all very well aware of the perils of plastic and the impact on the environment. To keep plastic use under control, avoid buying products that come in non-recyclable packaging material. Carry your own bags and avoid buying fruits and vegetables wrapped in plastic covers.

3. Switch to recycled products

Limit your practice of buying new products wherever possible. Become a sustainable shopper by browsing junk shops and charity stores to buy good-as-new items. From fashionable clothes to books to vintage souvenirs - you will be surprised to find countless real gems disguised as second-hand. What's even more impressive is you will save lots of pounds by shopping this way.