Environmental activism doesn’t always have to be a large scale,
community effort. You can also tackle
these issues personally by being a politically engaged citizen and also a
conscious shopper.
Today’s blog I’m going to review some of my favorite
purchases while proving that environmental activism can be accomplished by
where you decide to invest your money/votes. Allow me to apologize upfront how feminine these products are, I wanted to speak from actual purchases I've made.
Starting off with a category that is usually frowned upon by the eco-friendly community. Beauty products are always seen as full of harsh chemicals and it doesn’t help with the stigma that most products are tested on animals. Now, even though I want to be a crunchy outdoorswoman, there are times when I need to look “put together” and Tarte allows me to use products without sacrificing my values. The entire line of Tarte is naturally formulated and packaged in recycled or post-consumer recycled materials. Price $20-55
The easiest way to stop adding waste to landfills is to start using a waterbottle daily instead of purchasing plastic water bottles. Everyone I've met has their favorite type of water bottle, but I'm a huge fan of Rive's glass bottles. For anyone who is trying to get away from plastics entirely, but also can't handle the metallic taste some bottles leave behind, then this is the one for you. These bottles also boast that they are 100% BPA free, a hormone that the EPA has banned in all baby bottles. If you want more information I would go to their site, and while you're there you might as well order yourself one. Price: $20
Grocery shopping bags are another easy way to reduce plastic bag waste and some stores even give you a small discount for using your own bags. (I know Target gives a 5-cent discount for each reusable bag you bring so that's something) I like BAGGU mainly because the prints are fun and stylish and relatively cheap, as the price decreases as you buy more bags. I can usually fit a week's worth of groceries in the big bag, but it's also nice to have a couple smaller ones on hand. I also appreciate the craftsmanship of these bags as they don't easily tear or get ruined. Price: $9-12
Now I don't own an Atir bike, but I can't stress how important it is to own a bike if you want to really live sustainably. Not only do you get exercise, but you can navigate your city faster while not adding to the carbon emissions. I found my bike at a thrift store and only recently realized it is actually a men's bike (not that I care) but I am intrigued by the sleek design Atir Cycles offers. They also are a local business in Lincoln so worth a look. One downside is that they are a fixed-gear single-speed bike, so definitely a commuter's bike. Price: $325
There is always going to be the issue of how expensive "going green" can be versus doing the same-old same-old purchases. However, I challenge you to invest in products that may be more expensive, but will easily last longer and give you a better life because of them. (sorry I'm an advertising major I can't help it)
And if you want to save money, I found this blog that highlights 41 Ways to Save Money While Going Green. Ignored the product placement of Camelbak...
I'd love to hear about clothing brands that you shop that are sustainable.
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