Environmental conversations can be politically divisive, but more and more consumers continue to incorporate more sustainable habits into their lifestyles. I'm here.
About 72% of greenhouse gas emissions come from households, the way people choose to live, move, eat and shop, according to a new study. has been shown to be directly related to the consumption of While consumption has surged in some developed countries, people in other regions still struggle to meet their basic needs.
In addition to putting pressure on elected officials and governments, shoppers are digging deeper into the products they buy and use. Recent trends show that more families are taking an interest and taking action on environmental issues. According to GreenPrint research,consumers want to buy environmentally friendlyproducts, but they don't always know how to identify them.
The New York Post spoke to Garrette Clark, a sustainable lifestyle expert at the United Nations Environment Program, to understand the ins and outs of sustainable consumption. I heard
"The challenge is clear," said Clark. How you manage your home, what you eat, how you move around, how you relax, what you buy and how you care for the planet.
When assessing the environmental impact of a home, Clark points out the importance of looking at labels and assessing whether a particular eco-friendly certification can be relied upon. .
"Ecolabels provide sustainability information and are generally based on a lifecycle approach where a product is evaluated throughout its lifespan and is third-party certified," Clarke told the Post. . "Product Green She also has claims and self-declarations of sustainability properties."
Clark conducts research, considers sources, and makes various eco-friendly declarations with a grain of salt. Emphasizes the importance of acceptance. "Keep in mind that the best consumers are the informed ones," he warned Clark.
Sustainable development experts also encourage people to tap into their creative side when it comes to sustainable living. He suggests that families consider sharing clothes, buying vintage, choosing reusable cups, and choosing eco-friendly containers to reduce their use of plastic. increase.
Most importantly, there is no "one size fits all" approach. “What people need and want and how they live is different across cities, not across the planet, so sustainable living is different as well,” Clark said. says.
Considering Clarke's recommendations and his UNEP guidance, the New York Post has handpicked our favorite items for leading a more sustainable lifestyle. Check out our picks below for your favorite eco-friendly clothing brands and gift ideas
food
In the United States, food waste is 30 to 40% of the food supply
Misfit Market selects and finds new homes for quality food that grocers don't want to waste. Shoppers can get everything from non-GMO fresh fruits and vegetables to organic proteins and other popular snacks. Shop from our online store and get groceries delivered straight to your door.
2. Click and Grow Smart Garden, $80, Original Price: $100
Residues of two or more pesticides were detected in more than 90% samples of strawberries, apples, cherries, spinach, nectarines, and grapes
Not everyone has the resources to grow their own fruits and vegetables, but this super-sized smart garden is a great place to start. NASA-inspired Smart Soil creates the perfect environment for your plants without the use of pesticides, fungicides or hormones. Simply set the capsule, add water, and plug it into the machine.
Chlorinated plastics Hazardous chemicals and can even make it your food.
These glass storage containers are made from high-quality lead-free borosilicate glass that is plastic-free, BPA-free, phthalate-free, and non-toxic. If you're ready to use less plastic, moving to glass is certainly a healthy option. Additionally, they are microwave, dishwasher and freezer safe.
481.6 billion PET bottles sold worldwide Used in 1 year. 's recommendation to drink eight glasses of water a day equals approximately $0.49 per year. The same amount of bottled water costs about $1,400.
Water bottles are a major contributor to plastic waste, soInvesting in reusable water bottlesand cups will save you money while reducing your negative environmental impact. It's a great way to help you The Hydroflask water bottle is made of stainless steel and contains no BPA or phthalates, making it an excellent choice for conscious consumers.
Beauty
According to the National Ocean ServiceStudies have shown that some of the chemicals in sunscreens and other personal health products can harm coral reefs and marine life.
Attitude Sunscreens are made from natural ingredients and do not contain environmentally harmful chemical filters like octinoxate, making them a reef-friendly skin care option. In addition to being vegan and cruelty-free, their formulas are also hypoallergenic, dermatologically tested, and fragrance-free.
Independent Survey Top 50 Cosmetics 88% of companies ranked by market value funded animal testing in 2021.
Luckily, there are a number of cruelty-free cosmetic brands that still have every primer, gloss, brush, and blender imaginable. Among them is Tarte Cosmetics, a vegan makeup brand that does not test its finished products or ingredients on animals. The company has also refused to sell its products where animal testing is required by law.
Most makeup wipes and disposable cotton Not degradable, can take up to 100 years to degrade in landfills.
HaloTech Microfiber Makeup Remover Cloth Round Reusable Wipes are PETA approved and non-toxic. Adding these to your skincare routine can help you save money and reduce disposable waste at the same time. Simply rinse the used facial pads in the washing machine.
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According to the Water Research Foundation In 2016, the average shower used approximately 17 gallons of water. Besides, hair shampoo and conditioner products also contain unnecessary amounts of water.
Sugru offers waterless hair products made from 100% natural ingredients that nourish the hair and scalp without synthetic additives, fragrances or silicones. Take a cue from Sugru, keep your showers short, choose water-free products and save the planet's natural bounty.
Clothing
A great way to save money and resources.
Online platforms and apps like Mercari, with a focus on second-hand clothes, allow users to buy and sell almost anything. Whether you're reinventing your style or organizing your closet, the platform is a great option for sustainable shopping. Plus, your purchases are delivered directly to your front door, so you can skip the locker room lines.
Over the past few decades, more fashion brands We promise a refund. People who have historically been disenfranchised.
Under the slogan "Gear for Good," Cotopaxi devotes its resources to developing durable gear in the most ethical way possible, and uses its influence to support the community. have improved. Their collection is made with 100% recycled fabrics and his 1% of the proceeds are distributed to humanitarian organizations.
Clothing has a cost. Textile dyeing is the most polluting and energy intensive process associated with production. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, landfills received 11.3 million tons of woven municipal solid waste in 2018.
Mission to plant 1 billion trees by 2030. Shop our selection of t-shirts, cardigans, dresses and more made from sustainable materials like hemp and tencel.
4.Gunas
Leather industry. In addition to animal cruelty charges, turning skin into leather requires large amounts of energy and dangerous chemicals.
Gunas chooses something else. The vegan leather brand works with a group of small artisan studios to create handbags, shoes and accessories that are glue-free from leather, silk, fur, wool, bone, horn and animal by-products.
transportation
1. Schwinn Network Adult Hybrid Bike, $428, Original Price, $500
Based on data from the Coalition of Concerned Scientists, cars account for nearly one-fifth of all US emissions. , emits about 24 pounds of carbon dioxide and other greenhouse gases per gallon of gas.
If you're ready to make a drastic lifestyle change, consider swapping your car for a bike to cut down on your commute. This hybrid bike from Amazon is designed for street riding and features a 21-speed shifter to give riders a fast and fun alternative to driving.
Skateboarding isn't just for skateparks. These hipster mobiles can be taken on the road for a greener commute.
When choosing a skateboard, it is important to consider the materials used. Most skateboard decks are made of glue and wood, which raises concerns for those considering deforestation levels. However, this skateboard is made of bamboo, which is eco-friendly, water-resistant and durable.
Environment Given the impact it has on you, it may be time to invest in rollerblading.
These unisex entry-level skates come in a variety of sizes and offer the best in support and comfort. The secure closure system keeps the heel and ankle securely in place for a great fit. Reviews praise the breathability of the boots.
Donate Miles with our completely free app. Move and give back to charity.
Whether you're looking to jump-start a healthier lifestyle or are passionate about giving back, this app is a great way to give back to yourself and others. It's a passive method. Choose from charities such as Malala Foundation, Save the Children and Habitat for Humanity.
Household Items
According to the American Lung Association, many Cleaning products containchemicals that are harmful to our health and the environment. Especially those containing antibacterial gels and soaps can produce dangerous contaminants.
Grove is a certified B-corp, manufacturing cleaning products with recyclable packaging and natural fragrances. All products are also made in the USA. This cleaning set includes an all-purpose cleaner, a tub and tile cleaner, and a glass cleaner.
Don't waste leftover fruits and vegetables. Composting enriches the soil and reduces the need for chemical fertilizers by breaking down organic matter.
The Redmon Stationary Compost Bin breaks down kitchen waste and garden waste into a rich, earth-friendly fertilizer. Flowers will bloom in your garden and the environment will thank you. A breather hole speeds up the composting process and four access doors help retrieve composted material.
According to the World Wildlife Fund, the average Americans use 1.6 straws a day. The US alone is enough for him to circle the equator 2.5 times.
Besides polluting the ocean, plastic straws are fragile and melt easily. These Amazon straws are made from premium silvery stainless steel and offer a polished surface for the best sipping experience. Plus, a single stainless steel straw will last for years, replacing hundreds of plastic straws.
Especially in the last few years,small businesses and , artisans struggling with inflation and his COVID-19 pandemic.
Little Market is the place to shop for initiative and find a variety of artisans who help the environment, refugees, indigenous peoples and more. The market has a wide variety of items, from home décor to gifts to bathroom and kitchen items.
See theNew York Post Shopping section for more content.