With 2021 just around the corner people will be starting to list their New Year’s Resolutions, one of which might be to start living a more sustainable lifestyle.

Whilst this might seem to many a rather big step to take, it can actually be quite simple with the right ideas and the right mindset.

With that being said, here are 5 tips to help you reach your sustainability goals in 2021.

Tip 1: Have the right mindset

Year after year we hear the same old stories – “new year, new me”. But time and time again, we revert back to our old habits without even thinking about it.

Having the right mindset will go a long way when you’re starting your sustainable journey. As the founder of goBambu, an eco-friendly company selling biodegradable toothbrushes and other various products, I always meet prospective customers who have yet to take the leap to green.

When I ask them what’s stopping them, the usual response is ‘what impact am I really going to have?’

It’s a valid question. But also think that there are millions of people around the world with this same attitude. If you adopt the mindset that you can be one of many millions making a small change then collectively, we’ll make a difference.

Tip 2: Spend a little time researching

Unfortunately there are many companies now jumping on the eco bandwagon. They’ve realised that consumers are becoming more aware than ever of a company’s impact on the environment.

Some of those companies are bringing out ‘green products’ whilst still polluting the earth in other ways. This practice is called greenwashing and is something you should be aware of.

Once you ear-mark the eco-friendly items (such as sustainable coffee beans) you’d like to start purchasing, you can do a quick background check on the companies to make sure they have the relevant credentials before purchasing from them.

Tip 3: Lower Your Carbon Footprint

Individuals can significantly reduce their carbon footprint through conscious lifestyle choices. Adopt energy-efficient practices like turning off lights and appliances when not in use. Use LED bulbs. Invest in energy-efficient appliances as these can make a substantial difference.

Limit water waste — fix leaks and use low-flow fixtures; these conserve the energy needed for water heating. Use clean fuel alternatives like propane from companies like Gibson Oil and Gas to power your house. Embrace a plant-based diet or reduce meat consumption as this can minimize the environmental impact associated with livestock farming.

Plant trees and participate in community clean-up events to further help sequester carbon dioxide. By collectively practicing these measures, individuals play a crucial role in mitigating climate change and preserving the planet for future generations.

Tip 4: Reduce, Reuse, and Recycle

The fundamental way we can change the environment for the better is by reducing our consumption of products. By investing in products that have longevity you’re essentially making sure new products aren’t being created whilst you’re using them.

Some items you’ll want to consider for reuse are shopping bags, coffee cups, water bottles and makeup pads. If you’re looking for makeup pads in particular, goBambu have a great range.

In addition, you can further help the environment by reusing water as well. Many households today tend to use a rainwater recycling system that can help them collect rainwater and have it be used at home for washing, bathing, watering plants, etc. Rainwater is the purest form of water on the earth, and by harvesting it, we can reduce water wastage and improve our chances of preserving freshwater for a longer time.

Tip 5: Avoid plastic when possible

Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the past few years, you’ll be well aware that plastic is filling up our oceans and causing mass destruction to marine life.

It’s estimated that there are over 5 trillion pieces of plastic currently in our oceans – a figure which is both shocking and saddening.

This might well be the best tip you can take with you into 2021 – avoid as much plastic as possible.

Whilst this might seem like a mammoth task, after all plastic is everywhere, there are some things you can do to eliminate it from your daily life.

Some of these ways include:

• Using soap and shampoo bars instead of the liquid versions which come in plastic containers
• Investing in an organic cotton reusable grocery bag
• Switching out your plastic toothbrush
• Choosing paper or bamboo cotton buds
• Using alternative food wraps to clingfilm

Hopefully these tips will help you reach your sustainability goals in 2021 and beyond.