Seven small ways to make a (sustainable) difference

Posted on 1 August, 2019

Small can be powerful.

A drop of water is small until it joins with a mighty ocean. Every drop counts–especially when that drop is part of a ripple of change.

Here are seven small ways to make the switch to a sustainable future.

Switch from pen to pencil

The average pen writes for about 2km, the average pencil for 56km. For every pencil you use–you’ve saved 24 pens!  You’ve also saved on the environmental cost of production.

Because pens contain ink, plastic and metal their production has a far greater environmental footprint than a pencil. Pencils contain wood and a clay/graphite mixture.

Drink loose leaf tea

Individually wrapped tea bags might last longer in the cupboard, but their wrapping comes at an environmental cost. Many of the ‘paper’ wrappings are actually lined with plastic, creating waste that isn’t recyclable. Some (beautiful) tea bags are made of nylon.

Unfortunately, the nylon and tea mixture goes straight to landfill when you’re finished. Instead, choose loose leaf tea. Enjoy it brewed in a pot or with an infuser in a cup.

Choose recycled paper

Create demand for recycled products and you’re making a contribution to keeping Australia’s native forests safe from logging.

According to Sustainability Victoria, recycled paper uses up to 50% less energy and 90% less water to produce, compared to new paper. Choose recycled paper throughout your home…from paper towels and toilet paper to printer paper.

Refill your liquid soap

If liquid soap is your thing, then consider refilling the pump packs – rather than buying new. The pump pack action is created by a combination of plastic and metal, giving that nice spring. Because of the combination of materials, the top of the pump pack isn’t recyclable and goes to landfill. Most pump packs last for years and you can choose refill bottles that are 100% recyclable.

Buy local beer and wine

Australia’s homegrown beer and wine are among the world’s best–be proud!

Our climate produces fabulous grapes and our artisans are producing award-winning wines. Why buy European or New Zealand wine, when we have incredible local products? You’ll also be supporting local farmers and entrepreneurs.

No junk mail

Say no to printed advertising in your letterbox. Do you really enjoy reading it all, or does it go straight to the recycling bin? Make your own note: ‘No junk mail, please. Community notices accepted.’

Think of all those trees that you’re saving, just by refusing junk mail.

Go digital for Movies, Music and TV

An ever-expanding collection of movies, music and TV series creates an ever-expanding pile of stuff for landfill and recycling.

There’s also that little question of where to store it all…under the bed? Take your old CDs and DVDs to charities for reuse.

Scratched CDs and DVDs are, unfortunately, destined for landfill. Their cases can be recycled – just remove the paper labels.

Time for a simpler, cleaner digital future. Choose your drop in the ocean and enjoy being part of the ripple that it creates.