Living a More Sustainable Life

In my pursuit to help the environment, I’ve taken some (small) steps to make changes, live more sustainably, and lessen the waste.

To be honest, it’s really hard to consume products without the package it usually comes with. Most consumables like juice, condiments, milk, shampoo, and conditioner, use plastic as a container. Everywhere you look, may it be your bedroom, kitchen, or bathroom – you’ll definitely see at least 5 plastic bottles. It made me think about how many bottles we go through in a year.

WANT TO LIVE A MORE SUSTAINABLE BUT DON’T KNOW WHERE TO START?

Here are some inspirations –

Since 2018, I’ve been:

• washing, collecting, and putting those containers in recycling boxes instead of just throwing them out
• skipping the use of straws and wet wipes as they aren’t biodegradable (~100years to decompose)
• always bringing extra eco-bags, a pair of cutlery, and a water tumbler whenever I go out, especially when traveling
• using biodegradable disposable plates, cups, and cutleries (if unavoidable to use) even if they are a little more expensive than the regular ones
• buying second-hand items and clothes (bonus benefit: cheaper option and unique pieces!) ^{*been doing this for a long time now}
• utilizing plant-based household products like dishwashing liquids and laundry detergents which are non-toxic and eco-friendly
• avoiding buying single-use items

I was a vegan for a month! Yes, vegan – not just vegetarian. It was very challenging, especially for those omnivores who cold-turkey-ed their way to being a vegan, like me.
I stopped being a vegan after my Laos trip in Oct 2019, I realized how I deprived myself of ^{eating what I want, particularly when I’m in somewhere new. I had to try their food!}

And I’ve learned from Nikki de la Paz that “Current world issues that you are passionate about, aren’t always what other people are trying to change, and that’s okay. It’s not everyone’s job to save every part of the world.”

Other Initiatives

Not so long ago, I read about the benefits of using shampoo bars.
Most shampoo bars claim to be SLS (sodium lauryl sulfate) free! Others also declare that they are handmade, all-natural (vegan), and animal-cruelty free. Above all, I first thought of one less plastic bottle to discard. ^{Those tin cans are kept as travel containers.}

I tried to search online where to buy. I saw some cheap options from Shopee. ^{(Not an ad)}
Oh yes, China brand again. They have really good reviews.

Based on the previous users, they smell nice and lather well. ^{*And they certainly are!}
Each color has a different scent and purpose. I bought two to try which were mint & chamomile, and green tea because I like fresh scents (that’s my to-go scent for oil diffusers too).

Plus, I bought a set of great bamboo toothbrushes – soft bristles and affordable, to skip plastic toothbrushes. I love how they come in a fully recyclable package (very environmentally friendly!). But of course, Shopee still sent them in bubble wrap and a plastic poly mailer bag 🙄

I’ve reflected on using dental tabs instead of regular toothpaste to avoid the useless box that comes with it.
^{(Watch this video: https://www.facebook.com/1297043477/videos/10217732611049154/).}
Though I’ve not found a good alternative yet.

⚠️ Proceed reading with caution ⚠️
^{The next few lines are a little extra personal. You may skip to the end for the conclusion.}

Along with that, I’ve considered the use of reusable or washable sanitary pads. But my mom gave me a heads-up on how messy that can be, especially when you’re not at home. She shared that during their teen years, they used to have cloth pads because my great-grandma (her lola) said it’s healthier and cheaper, which is of course true.
My next option was the menstrual cups. But then again, I had this battle on my mind that it might come with the same hassle as the cloth pads, and because it might feel strange, especially for first-timers.

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I was convinced to buy a set for myself and to give it a try this time, especially since it might be the perfect timing since I’m still on WFH arrangement.
I hope my first try won’t be that troublesome.

I’m keeping my fingers crossed that I may have encouraged many to follow, take their own small steps or even go beyond the measures to conserve the environment, and I’m looking forward to the time when all online shopping platforms find a way to reduce the use of plastics for shipping our orders.

What other ways do you, guys, do to help the environment?
Share your thoughts in the comments below 🌱