Over the last decade the conversation of sustainability and “going green” has become growingly more and more popular. From the development of electric cars, to infomercials telling us to turn the lights and water off when not in use, to the ban of plastic bags in certain cities, to beach clean ups, and many many more. Society has been saying they care for many years, but do they truly?
According to a 2022 report, consumers stated that they would be more inclined to pay more for sustainable products, but MIT Center for Transportation & Logistics conducted a fact-finding study that fully contradicts the statements within the report. In 2019, the experiment observed consumers’ behaviors in local Massachusetts supermarkets. When consumers were presented with the option of sustainable products or regular standard items, only 14% of consumers chose the sustainable choice. Recycled paper products, detergents, toxic free cleaners, and more were some of the sustainable items – many items of which perform similarly, or even better than standard items. Concluding that society is wired for choosing economic finds, rather than sustainable ones.
Here are a few easy tips when shopping for general household items. Going sustainable is easier and more convenient than many may think!
- Research products before going to the store. If you’re looking for a new laundry detergent, hand soap, glass cleaner or any other house supply, research sustainable, non-toxic options at your local store. This will save time in the store and give you peace of mind knowing what the product is, rather than picking a random one off the shelf.
- Start with switching to plastic fee, recyclable trash and food bags. Plastic is one of the main items of pollution and by cutting one of those qualifiers out, it will significantly reduce your outtakes. Going fully sustainable can be intimidating, and feel complex – so slowing transitioning over will make the process easier and more likely to stay in routine.
- Find alternatives – many online sites such as Amazon, HoldonBags, Papaya Reusables, Public Goods, and many more offer recyclable, sustainably main, reusable and quality household products. Ranging from paper goods, to towels, to cleaners, to accessories, these options are affordable and easily accessible – so no excuses!
Find recycling plants or establishments in your area to dispose of your recyclable items. Many garbage facilities within apartment complexes and neighborhoods state they sort through the waste to decipher trash from recycling, but how do we really know this process is occurring?
