It’s no secret that we’re in the middle of a climate crisis but with the likes of Greta Thunberg and other climate activists advocating more sustainable living, our collective eco-consciousness is also greater than ever. And living a more sustainable life is easier than you think – with just a little effort and a few small changes, you can create an eco-friendly home and help do your bit for the environment. Here are eight simple ways to go green at home.
1. CONSERVE ENERGY
This is an easy one to do, and all it requires is a change in habit. Our top energy conservation tips include turning off lights and appliances whenever you’re not using them, hanging your clothes to dry rather than using a tumble dryer, and reducing your use of air conditioning.
2. EAT LOCAL
Importing food may offer more variety but it also means greater air travel and therefore, greater air pollution. Eat locally-sourced produce when you can – it hasn’t travelled as far, plus it supports local farmers and producers.
3. BE WATER-WISE
Droughts happen all over the world and are especially frequent in hotter climates. Save water by installing water-efficient showerheads, taking shorter showers and waiting until you have a full load of washing before using the washing machine. If you have plants or a garden, collect rainwater to water them, rather than using a tap.
4. SAY NO TO SINGLE-USE PLASTIC
According to WWF, the average Australian uses 130kg of plastic a year – and up to 130,000 tonnes of plastic makes its way into our waterways and oceans. Ditch disposable and single-use plastics such as straws, cutlery, bags and bottles and swap them for reusable alternatives. Once you get in the habit, you’ll soon be reducing your plastic use in no time.
5. USE REUSABLE CLOTHS
We’re all guilty of using paper towels and cotton pads in the home but after one use, they go straight in the bin. Switch to reusable household cloths instead and use reusable pads or muslin cloths to remove your make up, washing them whenever you need to.
6. RECYCLE
Paper, glass and metal can all be recycled so rather than sending your used goods straight to your waste bin, put them in the recycling instead (if you’re unsure and want to know what packaging is recyclable, check with your local council). Most Jurlique packaging is recyclable and we’ve partnered with TerraCycle to make it easy - when your product is finished, simply drop it off at a participating boutique, or send it for free via Australia Post. Find out more here.
7. USE ESSENTIAL OILS TO CLEAN
Typically, cleaning products can be toxic and harmful to the environment. Not only are essential oils great for diffusing and creating a peaceful atmosphere at home but they’re a great chemical-free alternative for cleaning, too. Lavender Oil can be used to freshen up clothes and bed linen, too. Rather than using a scented fabric softener, add a teaspoon to the wash for fresh, naturally scented fabrics.
8. GROW YOUR OWN HERBS
Herbs are easy to grow (and maintain) at home, even if you don’t have a garden. Start off with planting pre-potted herbs for ease and make sure you keep them somewhere that has drainage (if not, they’ll drown), like a window box with a reservoir at the bottom. Water them every day and keep them well trimmed. If you’re new to growing, woody herbs like thyme, rosemary and sage are more resilient than others so generally last longer and survive hot and cold locations well.
