happy earth day // my favourite ways to go green

today is earth day!!!

And since it’s tough to think of anything but the pandemic nowadays, I thought I’d share some of my favourite tips, items and resources to celebrate sustainability and doing our part to save the planet!

I’ve actually had this post in the back of my mind for a while and have been jotting down ideas in my notebook around my favourite products or things to share.

I’ve always tried to be mindful of how I consume, and how I can do my part to use products and items that are good for the environment. One of my biggest goals for 2020 was to focus on this more this year. Now that we’ve got a baby boy in our lives, I want him to also learn how to be kind to our planet.

There are two books I bought that have been really amazing, insightful and inspiring when it comes to green living and ways we can make an impact and make small changes in our lives. They are written by Jen Chillingworth, and I’ve linked them below if you want to check them out:
live green
clean green

I think it’s important to realize the impact of the small changes we try to make. Don’t feel guilty for things you’re not able to make work when it comes to being sustainable. Rather, celebrate the little things that you’re doing that will surely make a difference (and help influence others too!) I think we often feel that if we’re not doing everything, we’re doing nothing - which is so not true.

Here are some of my favourite products and brands that I’ve been loving and wanted to share with you all:
the cutest reusable coffee cup + water bottle // I really really wanted to invest in a beautiful reusable water bottle and coffee cup during my mat leave. These are perfect and although I haven’t been able to use them as much as I’d hope, I’ve been enjoying them at home during quarantine.
canvas bags + mesh grocery bags // These are a staple for me (and something I also haven’t been able to use as much right now) but I bring these with me everywhere! I also tend to buy one everywhere we travel to and Pete teases me about how many I have (but they’re soopo cute!)
swedish dish cloths // These are not only beautiful to look at but work really well. I love using them for dishes and to wipe down surfaces instead of paper towel. This was one, small easy change I made this year and have been really loving.
reusable straw // I am the kinda gal that actually really loves a straw in my drink when I go out to eat. Now that they are no longer served with beverages in restaurants I am loving bringing my reusable straw with me in my purse. This company makes beautiful ones, which beautiful cases (and is run by amazing people!)
reusable hand soap containers //
reusable makeup remover pads // I am really trying to be more and more green when it comes to the products I use on a daily basis as well. When travelling or going somewhere for a night I usually use makeup wipes for my face, and when at home toner/makeup remover. Instead of using those little makeup pads, I got these reusable ones and they honestly work so well. They’re so soft and come with a little bag that can go in the wash!
NEST // Pete and I splurged at the start of this year to get one of these. At first I thought it just seemed to extra and that we, like many others could simply stand up and change the temperature. However, I will say this has been awesome (esp with a baby!) We make sure to turn the heat off or lower it when we can and when we leave and that makes a big difference
reusable stasher pouches for snacks // I loveeee these snack pouches. They are perfect when you’re on the go (and esp good for new mamas who are breastfeeding) I am excited to continue to use these and tupperware once Otis is old enough to be eating meals and snacks on the go. Great alternative for plastic bags/siran wrap etc.
reusable produce bags // These are great to bring in the grocery store for your produce! I use them to pack other things like granola bars and snacks if we’re travelling and such. They’re inexpensive and come in all sizes to use for all sorts of goodies!

I also made a few homemade things recently and loved doing it + will do it again soon! I made a diy coffee scrub (coffee grounds, coconut oil + essential oils) and also made a bunch of room sprays that are lavender and eucalyptus scent (essential oil, witch hazel and water)

Next up, can’t wait to get more plants for inside and for out patio (which I am beyond excited to start getting ready and freshen up!)

Here are some good plants good for inside ; snake plant, spider plant, peace lily, ivy, weeping fig, boston fern

Here are some plants that grow well in containers - chamomile, mint, oregano, rosemary, sage and thyme

Lastly, I wanted to share some things you can start today to make a difference, and a few people to follow for some inspiration

20 things you can do today to make a positive impact in the world:

1. Invest in some staple reusable items you love
2. Shop local + at markets
3. Eat green more often (when you can!)
4. Always pack reusable bags
5. Read the label, and
6. Meal prep (to help reduce food waste)
7. Buy vintage + second hand
8. Spend time learning the rules of recycling
9. Get inspired and follow some blogs/accounts for ideas
10. Buy products that are safe and sustainable
11. Grow your own fruits, veggies, flowers + herbs
12. Make your own cleaners, scrubs etc
13. Turn your lights off and be mindful of saving energy
14. Walk or bike when you can
15. Donate old clothes and household items
16. Bring your own coffee cup
17. Be mindful of running water + shower times
18. Buy in bulk when you can
19. Go paperless for your bills
20. Try little things whenever you can to make a big difference!