Tiny Explanations On How To Change For Climate

We tend to have a lot of stuff, and each item we own has an impact from production to disposal. (Check out The Story Of Stuff video for more info.) Before you purchase something, consider first whether you need the item, or whether you can borrow it, trade for it or make it from something you already own.

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A sharing economy allows people to borrow or rent items rather than purchase them - from books to tools to cars, there are a lot of variations.

If you do need to buy something, buy sustainably. Consider buying used, buying local and looking for eco labels. And consider the packaging. Choose something that has minimal packaging, or if possible, buy in bulk and bring in a reusable container for it.

Check out our Change Habits for Climate guide’s section on sustainable purchasing for more ideas.

From shopping bags and coffee/travel mugs, to lunch kits and food containers, there are reusable versions of many items we use on a regular basis, cutting down on the need for single-use bags and containers.

Many of us remember to use cloth bags for groceries, but what about when shopping for clothing and other merchandise? Get more use out of those reusable bags!

If you purchase bulk foods, a number of stores will allow you to bring in your own container, reducing the need for disposable plastic bags. Same with restaurants - ask the server to pack your takeout or leftovers in reuseable containers you bring yourself.

You may be using reusable lunch containers, but did you know that there are reusable alternatives for plastic wrap and sandwich bags too? And don't forget your reuseable cutlery!

Take another look at those items you use regularly and consider what can be swapped out for something reusable, and what reusable items can be used for other things.