Sustainability, green initiatives, reduce-reuse-recycle, renewable energy, resource conservation are the buzzwords that are increasingly becoming more and more critical for the better future of our next generation and generations to come.
The time is ticking for an immediate action from our end! As the saying goes: “charity begins from home,” we should also say that Sustainability begins from home!
In this article, let’s make things simple for everyone and let’s look at some quick ways to weave in sustainability in our daily lives. We will also share some tips for a sustainable parties and events based on our own experience of organising them.
As we all know that Sustainability practices at home are essential for reducing environmental impact and living more eco-friendly life. Taking little steps is the way to start our Sustainability journey.
Here is what we can do:
Save Water:
What do we do with a glass of water that’s half empty after we finish drinking? Pour it down the sink? Instead, what we can do – give that water to the plant or use it to wash the same glass.
Installing low-flow faucets, showerheads, and toilets reduces water usage to a good extent.
Save Electricity:
Time to upgrade to kitchen and home appliances with high energy efficiency ratings that will considerably reduce power consumption. The benefits are twofold – saving money and a greener home. Also, mindful usage of aircon is extremely important towards reducing electricity consumption.
Replacing incandescent bulbs with LED bulbs is a green option because LED bulbs consume less energy and last longer.
Let’s also ensure that our home is well-insulated to conserve energy for heating and cooling.
RRR for the win:
It’s not a new initiative but still a lot needs to be done on our part when it comes to: Reduce, Reuse, Recycle.
Reduce, Reuse, Recycle and Repeat is one of the best ways for greener home. When we consciously start to minimise waste, reuse items whenever possible, and recycle the waste correctly, we are well on our way of sustainable living.
Do you use recycle bins, e-waste bins to dispose off items? Do you upcycle that plastic bottle into a DIY planter? Do you ensure that you avoid using plastic straws and other cutlery?
In fact, when we are buying stuff like clothes, bags or renovating home, it’s always wise to choose recycled materials.
Add a touch of Green!
Whatever is the size of your home, plants will make it even more beautiful and won’t take too much space.
Try to create a small garden in your patio or even a small corner full of plants or place a couple of plants on your work / study desk.
Planting native species in your garden and using drought-resistant plants or adding new plants by planting seeds or getting the saplings from friends will make your planting experience sustainable. Yes, do avoid buying plastic pots for plants. Instead use glass pots or reuse old plastic containers.
Sustainable Communities
Organising parties and even bigger events for special occasions can be a lot of fun, but it also requires careful planning and attention to detail to ensure that everything goes smoothly. There are many elements to consider when planning a party or event and sustainability should be definitely a priority. Let me share some tips that I have personally tried to incorporate in my own events.
1. Choose venue that’s accessible by public transport. This way we reduce our carbon emissions caused by private transport.
2. Say NO to plastic cutlery. Opt for metal or glass materials.
3. Go paperless! E-invites, e-prizes and e-flyers is a great way to avoid paper printouts.
4. Support local farmers. Source organically grown food items. You can also choose a theme like “Meatless Event” and be kinder to our planet.
5. Avoid food wastage. It’s great if you could give meal options to choose from to the guests when you ask for their RSVPs.
6. Have water dispensers and paper cups at your event rather than plastic water bottles.
7. Post-event cleanup should be done as per Recycling guidelines.
Consciously incorporating sustainability practices into our home and community creates a positive impact on the environment and help reduce the carbon footprint.
By making small changes in our daily lifestyle, we can certainly play a part in leaving a greener and healthier planet for future generations.
Posted 20 Mar 2024
